Self-care is vital. The way we treat ourselves trickles into every other aspect of our lives. If we neglect and abuse ourselves, chances are those patterns show up in our relationships – whether we mean for them to or not. The relationship we have with ourself shapes every other relationship.

Most times when someone mentions self-care the first thing that comes to mind is bubble baths, facials, warm tea, or maybe even lighting a candle. Yes, all of these are ways we take of ourselves, but self-care is so much more than that!

Self-care is budgeting, making dinner when we wanna just run through a drive-thru, setting boundaries even when it’s uncomfortable or awkward. Self-care is letting yourself react organically in situations – even if that means getting upset. Self-care is about taking care of yourself. Imagine that?

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I make an effort to perform acts of self-care for myself daily. Practice what you preach, right?

I was doing research on how I can do better, how I can include more practices of self-care into my daily and weekly routines when I stumbled upon Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) eight dimensions of wellness. These eight dimensions include:

Emotional WELLNESS

“Coping effectively with life and creating satisfying relationships”

FINANCIAL WELLNESS

“Satisfaction with current and future financial situations”

SOCIAL WELLNESS

“Developing a sense of connection, belonging, and a well-developed support system”

SPIRITUAL WELLNESS

“Expanding our sense of purpose and meaning in life”

OCCUPATIONAL WELLNESS

“Personal satisfaction and enrichment derived from one’s work”

PHYSICAL WELLNESS

“Recognizing the need for physical activity, diet, sleep, and nutrition.”

INTELLECTUAL WELLNESS

“Recognizing creative abilities and finding ways to expand knowledge and skills”

ENVIRONMENTAL WELLNESS

“Good health by occupying pleasant, stimulating environments that support well-being”

So over the next eight weeks I’m doing a “Self-Care Series”. Each week I am focusing on one of these dimensions. I will articulate how I can improve my wellness in one dimension per week. Then – the hard part – I will be adamant about performing these acts of self-care. Stay tuned!