Here’s a perspective twist for you. I heard in class recently that we should look at self-care as a gift to others. That was the first time I’ve ever looked at self-care in that way. I mean, don’t we usually associate self-care with some sort of wellness treat for yourself & that’s pretty much where it ends? It’s true, when my batteries are charged, I can better serve those I love, but I’ve honestly always looked at self-care as me being selfish. I’ve known that it’s needed for my emotional well being, but still couldn’t help but feel guilty for taking that time away from my family & daily responsibilities.

Let’s rewind to March, when I somehow found myself in my first @theworkschs class. I was all by myself. I hadn’t had a solid exercise routine since before I was pregnant with Watson. (That is almost 6 years ago if you’re counting!)

I don’t know what called me into that exercise studio that day. It was probably to get my jeans to fit better or my rings to not feel so tight on my fingers. But as I started going to those classes more & more, I started noticing that my focus wasn’t on those things anymore. The hard work I was doing, while more physically challenging than most any other exercise I’ve done, became much more of a mental experience for me.

It didn’t take me long to realize that exercise, when it’s the good kind—the kind that truly “clicks” with you & doesn’t feel like torture, is self care. A thousand percent. I found that the more I went, the lighter I felt, the less on edge I seemed, & the stronger I became—not only physically, but definitely mentally.

And that feeling you may recognize, my friends, is truly a gift to those you love.

So here’s to you moms or literally anyone reading this who feels a tinge of guilt when you spend time bettering yourself. Whether it be a bath in the middle of the day, a night out with friends, or an hour here & there to exercise. It’s time away from other things you could be doing & should be doing. It often requires a sitter or special arrangements that can easily feel so inconvenient. But it’s always worth it.

Self care is a gift to others. I’m going to remember that as I go to take a bubble bath tonight.