Radical Self-Care: Reclaiming the Basics
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Self-care is a term that often conjures images of lavish spa days, expensive vacations, or indulgent treats. While those moments of luxury can be fulfilling, they’re not the foundation of true self-care.
At JIWS, we believe that radical self-care begins with the basics—meeting your core needs and nurturing your body, mind, and spirit in practical ways.
Redefining Self-Care
In a society that glorifies productivity, basic self-care is sometimes dismissed as “lazy” or “selfish.” But taking the time to address your fundamental needs is neither of these things. It’s an act of self-preservation and self-respect. Radical self-care is about reclaiming these essentials without guilt or shame.
Here are some examples:
Listening to Your Body: Take bathroom breaks when needed, even during a busy workday. Ignoring such signals can lead to discomfort and even health issues.
Hydration: Drinking enough water might seem trivial, but it’s essential for maintaining energy, focus, and overall well-being.
Movement Breaks: Standing, stretching, or walking for a few minutes during long periods of sitting can improve circulation and mental clarity.
Why Basic Self-Care Matters
Neglecting these small but vital actions often leads to burnout, stress, and physical discomfort. When you prioritize the basics, you’re creating a strong foundation for your overall well-being. This approach allows you to show up more fully in your personal and professional life.
Basic self-care isn’t selfish; it’s sustainable. By meeting your needs first, you ensure you have the capacity to care for others without depleting yourself.
Tips for Integrating Self-Care into a Busy Life
We understand that life can feel overwhelming, and adding one more thing to your plate might seem impossible. Here are some tips to make basic self-care a natural part of your routine:
Start Small: Choose one habit to focus on, like drinking a glass of water as soon as you wake up. Once it becomes automatic, add another.
Set Reminders: Use phone alarms or sticky notes to remind yourself to take breaks or hydrate.
Create Rituals: Pair self-care actions with existing routines. For example, stretch for two minutes every time you get up to refill your coffee.
Give Yourself Grace: It’s okay if you forget or fall out of routine. Self-care isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistency over time.
Listen to the Podcast Episode
For a deeper dive into radical self-care and actionable advice for making it part of your daily life, listen to our latest podcast episode: Radical Self-Care: Reclaiming the Basics. Click here to listen or use the player embedded at the top of this post.
This episode breaks down why basic self-care matters and offers even more practical strategies to reclaim your well-being without feeling overwhelmed.
Join the Movement
At JIWS, we’re here to support you in prioritizing your needs and embracing a more balanced, fulfilling life. Explore our services or schedule a free 15 minute consultation to learn how we can help you on your self-care journey.