As last week concluded and we celebrated Mother’s Day, I was having some thoughts on self-care. It comes up so often in therapy- this uncomfortable, shame-inducing concept known as self-care. So often, especially among therapists, we feel guilty thinking about doing something for ourselves. It’s selfish to focus on ourselves. At least, that’s what I have told myself. But I need to remind myself that if I challenge my own patients to give themselves permission to take care of themselves, I need to model this in my own personal life. We can set healthy boundaries with others in our lives, just as we can set healthy boundaries with ourselves. As a private practice owner, mother, wife, or any other role I take on, I need to be cognizant of taking time out for myself. Life will always be busy and full of things left on my to-do list, but if not now, then when? 

Self-care is vital to maintain work-life balance. You need to make sure there is enough energy and time to engage in important and healthy activities that allow you to feel grounded and centered. I tell many of my clients it only takes 5-7 minutes a day to engage in mindfulness/meditation activities that can help reduce anxiety and depression levels. Enough with distracting and avoiding. Remember your needs are equally important.  

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Visit our website or call (317) 649-1757 and Schedule an appointment. Take the courageous step towards emotional healing and growth. Reach out to Life Stages Counseling today to begin your transformative therapy experience in Indianapolis, IN.

Have a meaningful and purposeful week.  

-Julie Biffle, MS, LMHC