Self care. It’s a term that is easily misconstrued as self-indulgence of some sort, like a spa day or “treating yo’ self” to a new outfit. I guess it can be those things, but when we really hone in on the essence of self care, we are referring to something that we often miss: It’s that connection to our truest self, the devotion to mindfully crafting a life that prioritizes those things that nurture us and push us to be better. Self care is knowing you are worthy of a healthy body, because it’s your only body. It’s the intentional act of taking time to tend to your body through a sweat-filled run, bootcamp class, yoga practice, meditation, long walk, or hike through the open space. Self care is not self-indulgence and it’s far from selfish. It’s a way of prioritizing your overall wellbeing in order to tend to your fundamental needs. It’s a way of creating space for yourself, so that you are more available to support others without feeling over-extended.

The next time you are debating whether or not to workout (or devote time just for you), remember why you’re doing it and how you’ll feel when you’re done. Because exercise and self care go beyond the mat and the weights, and into the rest of our lives. Cheers!