Self-Care Is Not A Chore

Exactly what the title says–self-care is not a chore. So why do so many of us treat it like one? 

There are a lot of misconceptions about what self-care actually is, which is why I wanted to share a clearer, more realistic understanding of it. 

Self-care involves taking steps to support your physical, mental, and emotional health and wellbeing. It has become increasingly popular over the past decade and is often treated as a trend. However, self-care is not new–people have been practising it long before it was given a name.

In therapy, self-care is often explored as an important skill that can help manage challenges and improve overall wellbeing. Yet many people I work with are not always sure what it really means or what actually “counts” as self-care.

One of the most common misconceptions is that self-care has to be something big, time-consuming, or even indulgent. When people think of self-care, they often picture spa days, long baths, full skincare routines, or buying something expensive. While these are absolutely valid forms of self-care, they are not the only ones–and for many people, they are not the most realistic or sustainable options.

Because of this misconception, self-care can start to feel like a chore–something you should be doing, rather than something that genuinely supports your wellbeing. 

In reality, self-care doesn’t need to be elaborate or time-consuming. It doesn’t have to take hours out of your day, and it doesn’t need to follow a strict routine. Self-care should feel supportive, not pressuring. It’s not about doing something perfectly or consistently at the same time everyday. Instead, think of it as responding to what you need in that moment–something that helps you feel even slightly better. It should be something that is benefiting you in a positive way.

For some people, self-care might look like taking a full day to rest, recharge, and reset–and that is okay. For others, it might be just 5-10 minutes to pause, breathe, and ground themselves–and that is okay too. Both are equally valid and depend entirely on what you need at that specific time.

We all have different needs, and understanding those needs is a key part of self-care. It can involve asking yourself simple questions such as: 

• What do I need right now?

• What would help me feel even slightly better?

• What feels manageable today?

  
  

You are likely already practising self-care everyday without realising it. Some examples of self-care include: brushing your teeth, washing your face, taking a shower, changing your clothes, making your bed, going for a walk, getting fresh air, drinking water, tidying your space, journaling, reading, cooking a nutritious meal, resting or napping, and getting enough sleep.

These actions may seem simple, but they are fundamental ways of taking care of yourself.

Self-care doesn’t have to be impressive to be effective. 

Sometimes, the most meaningful acts of self- care are the simplest ones–especially during times when you feel overwhelmed, low, or unmotivated. In those moments, even small steps count.

It’s also important to recognise that self-care is not always about doing more. Sometimes, it’s about doing less. It might mean setting boundaries with others, saying no, or allowing yourself to rest without guilt.

When practised consistently, self-care can have a positive impact on your mental health. It can help improve your sense of self, reduce feelings of stress or anxiety, increase positive emotions, and support your overall wellbeing and functioning.

Ultimately, self-care is about building a relationship with yourself that is supportive and compassionate. It;s not something you have to earn, and it’s not something that should feel like a burden. 

It’s simply about taking care of yourself in ways that feel realistic, accessible, and meaningful to you.

I also have a Self-Care Planner available on my Resources page, which you can use to build a personalised self-care plan and define what self-care looks like for you. It can be a helpful tool during times when you need extra support. 

If you are struggling with practising self-care or would like more ideas, please feel free to contact me at contact@renewedhorizonscounselling.co.uk or via the contact form on my website. I look forward to hearing from you.