Give up and take up

Self-care is about looking after yourself in all areas of your life – physically, emotionally, socially, spiritually, professionally and intellectually – and that’s way easier said than done. Because, for example, to look after ourselves socially, we have to start setting boundaries and learning to say no. If we’re going to choose to look after ourselves physically that might mean giving up some of our favourite food, or looking after ourselves intellectually (i.e. our brain health), might mean giving up screen time.

At the same time looking after yourself spiritually might mean taking up regular walks in nature or time reading the Bible if that’s what gives you life and makes you feel close to God. Or looking after yourself professionally might mean taking up a job that feels more true to who you are or more exciting to you.

Self-care is learning the balance of things to give up and things to take up. Give up the things that drain you and take up the things that give you life, energy and joy!

• What do you need or want to give up that is draining you in your life at the moment?
• What do you want to take up that you feel or know will be life-giving for you?
• Who can you share your answers with? Go ahead and share it.