by Melissa Strawser

Created on: April 15, 2009

Self Care is Critical to Physical and Mental Wellness

How many times have you said, "I'm tired" or "I just can't get focused." It is true that we all have only 24-hours in a day and we all have things and people that compete for our attention. Do you feel like you are competing for time with yourself?

Some of your reasons for not taking care of yourself might be:

* I don't have time

* Everyone is depending on me!

* I don't have the energy

* Everyone will think I am selfish

* I don't have the money

* "If I don't do it, no one will!"

Sound familiar? Let's look at it from a different perspective.

"Time out" or "Time off" gives you time to reset and rejuvenate. If you consistently take care of everything and everyone, eventually, your energy reserves diminish, and you will continue to feel out of control, time pressed, and exhausted. At that point, you might be plagued with mental disorganization, depression, or even illness.

The adage that "busy people are the ones that get things done" is true but, if you talk to busy people, they have things in order and take time to relax and practice good self-care. Self-care includes relaxation, mental and physical health, wellness, balance, and boundaries.

Setting boundaries with your family and friends is the hardest step in this process.

First, if you are the primary 'point of contact' for all the people in your life to dump their life disasters, family issues, or gossip -draw a line in the sand. It is their life and they need to handle it! You are not a dumping station for all their garbage. If someone really needs you, then be there for them but make sure you know when they are taking advantage of your kindness and great listening skills.

Second, if you are the person that everyone in the family assumes will do everything, create a family chore chart, and divide the chores equally. Post the chart on the refrigerator with each person's name and the chores for that week, hold each person accountable. If you continue to pick up the additional chores, the boundary will not be taken seriously.

Finally, make an appointment with yourself and keep it. Is there a class you have wanted to take, do you want to get a manicure/pedicure, or do you want to go to the gym? Plan it in your day. Let everyone know that you are going to do this and do it no matter what the resistance. On the other hand, understand that 'life happens' and if there is a true emergency your time might be changed but don't cancel it, just reschedule. You must be able to identify

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