Why is self-care so important?
Let’s start with the misconceptions that self-care is selfish or self-indulgent. It’s not that at all. It is simply taking care of yourself so that you can take care of your family, do your job, and accomplish your daily tasks. When we take care of ourselves, we can better take care of others.
Clinical studies have shown that practicing self-care reduces or eliminates anxiety and depression, improves focus, reduces irritation and anger, increases happiness, improves energy, and so much more.
There is an underlying assumption that we must always be active in a society where individuals are expected to work long hours and forego vacation days, which might take away opportunities for self-care. The idea of unlimited PTO has backfired as employees have been shunned for using it in this kind of system. However, by taking some time to participate in self-care, you can reduce the pressures of everyday life and reset yourself to a healthy state where productivity may be restored.
What are some of the areas of wellness?
This is not an exhaustive list as different organizations classify them differently and include up to eight areas.
- Social: this is your impact on the community within your inner circles including activities and hobbies.
- Physical: this is linked to your hygiene, nutrition, exercise, and medical care.
- Emotional: this is the ability to manage your moods and create positive thinking in your life. Allow yourself to feel your emotions.
- Sexual: this is the feeling of pleasure and connection to your body’s needs and desires.
Because your health is interconnected, it’s critical to take a holistic approach to self-care and well-being. Ignoring one area such as your emotional well-being might result in a weakened immune system. Or focusing on your physical health too much can leave you exhausted in your social life. A well-balanced approach is necessary. When you make YOU the priority you will have the benefits of being more energetic, happier, and focused.
What is Sexual Self-care?
It’s time for female masturbation to get the recognition and normality it deserves. 8 out of 10 women see masturbation as self-care. Being comfortable with our own sexuality, self-determination, sexual self-esteem, and our relationship to our past sexual experiences—even if they were negative—all contribute to sexual wellness.
Masturbation doesn’t mean there is something wrong with your relationship or you should only do it if you are single. It is good to learn what you like, avoid the anxiety of pleasing someone else, and show yourself that you are worth loving. The best part is there is no bill or tip at the end, no planning needed, no arranging schedules with someone else as some of the other self-care items can involve.
Approach self-care masturbation as a marathon, not a sprint – you need to connect with your body. This isn’t the type of masturbation where you just want to get off or only have a couple of minutes (we are not saying that is bad, it’s just not the type of self-care masturbation we are referring to). There is science behind masturbation such as it helps you sleep because it releases endorphins (a natural stress reducer). Positive all around!
How do we do all this?
Set time aside to make these areas a priority – rewrite your routine. Even schedule masturbation time and sexual intimacy with a partner. It may seem odd to prioritize your sexual health, but it is just as important as the other areas of wellness, and it deserves your attention. Enjoy yourself.