Self-care is great and all but perhaps you have noticed that mainstream self-care culture hyper focuses on indulgence, materialism and consumerism., disregarding mental health care and a more authentic concept of well-being

Self-compassion is the ability to turn acceptance, understanding and love inward. While it may be easy to extend compassion to others, it is difficult for many to give to themselves. You can learn to be more self-compassionate, and should because research is showing a myriad of benefits to well-being.

Self-care becomes sustainable and authentic when we think of it in terms of rhythm as opposed to balance. Rhythm is a powerful template for self-care because it allows us to ebb and flow…shift and change, as opposed to doggedly sticking to a rigid routine which may actually pull us off balance.

Many brands have co-opted the term self-care to market and sell their products in the name of wellness. Think bubble baths, sheet masks and spa days. Often times these products have nothing to do with authentic self-care. You may find yourself temporarily soothed or distracted, but experience no meaningful change in your overall well-being. Perhaps you even question why self-care doesn’t work for you/what you’re doing wrong?