I'd like to suggest an alternative self-care practice by offering the idea of beginning to practice a sabbath. A sabbath can take place as a moment, an hour, or a day of rest and reflection that can be a beneficial form of self-care.
Traditionally, a sabbath is practiced as part of a faith, a religious, a spiritual, or a cultural exercise. How a sabbath is executed can take various forms depending on individual beliefs and preferences.
Suggested sabbath ideas...
Rest:
Embrace physical rest by refraining from work or activities that cause stress or fatigue. This could include avoiding chores, work-related tasks, or strenuous physical activities.
Unplug:
Disconnect from technology and screens to create space for quiet reflection and meaningful connections with loved ones. Turn off phones, computers, and TVs to focus on being present in the moment.
Worship:
Attend religious services, engage in prayer, meditation, or spiritual reading that aligns with your faith tradition. Use this time to connect with your spiritual beliefs and deepen your relationship with the divine.
Nature:
Spend time outdoors appreciating the beauty of nature. Take a leisurely walk, go for a hike, or simply sit in a park and observe the natural world around you.
Community:
Gather with family or friends to share a meal, engage in meaningful conversations, or participate in activities that bring joy and strengthen relationships.
Creativity:
Engage in creative pursuits that nourish your soul, such as painting, writing, playing music, or gardening. Use this time to express yourself and explore your passions without the pressure of productivity.
Reflection:
Set aside time for introspection and self-reflection. Journaling, mindfulness practices, or simply quiet contemplation can help you gain insight, clarity, and a sense of inner peace.
Service:
Volunteer or engage in acts of kindness and service to others. Use your talents and resources to make a positive impact in your community and show compassion to those in need.
Boundaries:
Establish clear boundaries to protect your Sabbath time from encroachment by work or other obligations. Communicate your intentions with others and prioritize your well-being.
Gratitude:
Cultivate an attitude of gratitude by reflecting on the blessings in your life. Take time to appreciate the simple pleasures and experiences that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Ultimately, sabbath observance is a personal and intentional practice that involves prioritizing rest, reflection, and connection with oneself, others, etc. Be open to experiment with different activities and approaches to find what resonates most deeply with you.