Shelter Yourself: Practicing Self-care

Self-care is never a selfish act – it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on earth to offer to others. 

                                                                                Parker Palmer

                                                                                   

Self-care – what we all need, but often it’s the last on our list to be accomplished; the one item not crossed off at the end of the day. We sang as a child, “Jesus and Others and You. What a wonderful way to spell JOY.” We belted out that last sentence, “Put yourself last and spell joy.” The children’s song was meant to explain the importance of putting God first in our lives, and the unselfishness of putting others before ourselves. However, with that imprinted on our hearts, we often forget the spirit of the song and make it the law of our lives. 

My sister-in-law, Marsha, is the greatest nurturer of all time. She taught me the delight of preparing my environment. It’s my favorite self-care practice. Plumped throw pillows, a neatly folded soft throw, a cleared space, a goblet of tea, and a lit candle – and my body and soul begin to relax. Add a Bible, journal or book and the quiet evening is perfect. (Chocolate gives bonus points!)

The disciple John knew the importance of self-care. He affirmed our need to be well in body and soul when he wrote, Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul (3 John 1:2).

Here are five places to prepare your environment:

1. Prepare your environment at your reading chair: Do you have an over-stuffed chair where you can curl up and read? Move a table close so your drink is near. Light a candle or diffuse lavender oil. Add a favorite framed photograph to the table.

2. Prepare your environment under the sun: Sunshine's Vitamin D is important to our body. Float frozen berries in your water, and go outside to God’s environment. He’s already prepared it. Watch the birds and squirrels. Enjoy the flowers and green grass. Turn your face to the sun and talk to the Father through the SON, Jesus.

3. Prepare your environment in your bedroom: Fill a vase with a bouquet of fresh flowers for your nightstand. Prop up on pillows, and cover yourself with a comforter. Line up your colored pencils or markers, and color or draw Scripture art. Write in your gratitude journal. Lean your head back and take a nap.

4. Prepare your environment in your War Room: Where do you talk to God? Sometimes when our body and soul need care, we can find both at the feet of Jesus. Add your prayer journal and a box of tissues. Sing along with worship music. 

5. Prepare your environment at a home away from home: Pack a bag, remembering your goblet, candle, and photograph of someone you love. Don’t forget your journals, books, and magazines. Book a room at a motel, or a local convent or monastery. These are quiet places – where you can unplug. 

Subscription Boxes are gaining popularity. Here are a few especially for self-care. Purchase them for yourself, or for a gift.

Self-care monthly subscription boxes:
1. Buddy Box: (UK) All the items included in the box are intended to make you feel good: helping you de-stress, find calm, feel pampered, relax, get creative, or simply have fun.
2. trösta box: trösta box is a monthly subscription box that helps you love and care for yourself better.

    3. The Bloom Beautifully Box: Each self-care box contains 4-5 self-care essentials that nurture the mind, body and soul. We've carried art journals, luxurious bath bombs, herbal tea, sleep masks, and much more in our boxes.

    4. Better Box: A monthly subscription service that delivers self-improvement experiences designed to help people live happier, healthier lives.