Orlando Therapist: Everything You Need to Know About Self-Care
Orlando Therapist: Everything You Need to Know About Self-Care
Written by: Lauran Hahn, LMHC
In today's hectic world, the concept of self-care often gets overshadowed by endless to-do lists and responsibilities. Yet, taking time to care for yourself is essential to living a balanced and fulfilling life. Self-care isn't merely a trend or a luxury; it's a vital practice that helps you maintain your mental, physical, and emotional health. By prioritizing self-care, you empower yourself to handle life's challenges with resilience and grace, bringing your best self to every situation.
As an Orlando Therapist, I have many clients who need guidance in this area so I teach them the mantra: Self-care is NOT selfish.
Understanding self-care means recognizing that it's about more than just pampering yourself. It's about making intentional choices that support your overall well-being and happiness. It's about learning to put your own needs on par with those of your work and family, ensuring that you have the energy and spirit to be there for others.
In this blog, we’ll explore what self-care truly means, what it isn't, and the common mistakes people make when trying to implement it. We'll also provide insights on how to create a self-care plan that works for you, ensuring you can thrive in all areas of your life. Dive in to discover how you can start nurturing yourself today!
What is Self-Care?
Self-care refers to intentionally engaging in activities that nurture your mind, body, and spirit so that you can live a balanced and fulfilling life. Nurturing yourself allows you to fill up your own cup so that you bring the best version of yourself to work, family, and friends.
Self-care puts you in the driver’s seat and allows you to take responsibility for your own happiness and well-being. When you have a solid self-care plan, you prioritize your own needs right up there with the needs and demands of your family and work.
When flying on a plane, parents are told to put the oxygen mask on themselves before putting it on the kids, well because if the parent is dead, they can’t offer much to their kid. The same logic applies here. You must fill your own tank if you’re going to have anything left to give others. I work with a lot of people that need coaching in this area.
What Isn't Self-Care?
When creating a sustainable self-care plan, we use a little rule to determine if something is or is not a potential self-care activity. ‘It isn't self-care if it’s adding more stress to your life.’ That could be immediate stress or long-term stress.
For example, even though working out is good for your body if you hate going to the gym and it causes you high levels of stress and anxiety, then the gym should not be on your self-care plan. The juice is not worth the squeeze for you. You need to find a different physical outlet that you enjoy, like walking with a friend or biking.
On the other side of that coin is indulging now so that you can avoid feeling stress. For example, coming home after work and drinking an entire bottle of wine after a difficult day at work may offer temporary relief, but the long-term effects of this type of overindulgence are creating health problems for future-you.
Overlooking Self-Care
Many people overlook establishing boundaries with their friends and family when implementing a self-care plan. Saying ‘yes’ to yourself requires that you say ‘no’ to others. Your new self-care plan is naturally going to limit your availability to your loved ones and work. Make sure you have a discussion and outline some boundaries before implementing your plan to help minimize potential conflicts.
Creating a Self-Care Plan
Now that we’ve delved into the nuances of self-care, let me share some ways you can kickstart your own journey. Developing a self-care plan doesn't have to be overwhelming; in fact, it's best to start small. Begin by incorporating simple, manageable activities into your daily routine. Over time, these small steps will build into a comprehensive self-care regimen tailored to your needs and preferences.
In my blog post, 6 Steps to Renew Your Self-Care Plan, I outline various activities that might inspire you as you create your self-care outline. These steps are designed to help you explore different aspects of self-care, from physical to emotional well-being. Remember, this curated plan is meant to serve you, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different practices to discover what resonates with you.
Feel free to try out new things and adjust your plan as you go. Self-care is a deeply personal journey, and what works for one person might not work for another. The key is to remain open-minded and patient with yourself as you explore what truly makes you feel rejuvenated and happy. By starting small and building gradually, you’ll create a sustainable self-care routine that supports your overall well-being.
Ideas for Self-Care in Orlando
At Mindful Living Counseling, we believe in the importance of sharing local spots for self-care. Lets start with one of my favorite places to unwind after a long day at work: Orlando Power Yoga. This sanctuary offers the perfect environment to relax, reset, and rejuvenate both your mind and body.
When I'm not working and seeking a bit of pampering, I head over to visit Melissa Dyer. Melissa has been taking care of my hair for many years, and there's something incredibly soothing about the whole process. From the gentle wash to the cut and styling, it’s one of my favorite ways to practice self-love and feel refreshed.
By sharing these cherished local spots, we hope to inspire you to find your own places of comfort and relaxation. Here is a list of other local spots for you to check out:
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Not Sure About Therapy Orlando?
Mindful Living Counseling is a team of trained therapists who are ready to help you. If you're not ready to start yet or need more information, no problem at all. We have excellent resources for you to enjoy in the meantime.
Therapy Orlando Resources
Orlando Therapist Shares Importance of Self-Care
Orlando Therapist: A Mental Health Month Discussion
5 Ways to Become More Gentle With Yourself
Other Therapy Services Offered at Mindful Living Counseling Orlando
At Mindful Living Counseling we provide various therapy services for your needs. Our therapy services include EMDR Therapy, Anxiety Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Teen Therapy, and Toxic Relationship Therapy. We also offer Guided Meditations to our clients.
About Lauran Hahn
Orlando Therapist, Lauran Hahn, LMHC, specializes in working with clients that are struggling with anxiety and trauma. Lauran is a Certified Sensorimotor Psychotherapist as well as a Certified EMDR Therapist and EMDRIA Approved Consultant. Lauran EMDR Intensives helps people feel calm in their body, at peace their mind, and connected in relationships.