It’s a new year and many people make resolutions or set goals
for the year to come. Those of us with MS should consider including a deeper
focus on self-care in our resolutions.
Self-care is a term I’ve heard thrown
around a lot lately. It means different things to different people. To some, it
means self-indulgence - bubble baths and spa days - luxurious items that can
make you feel relaxed and pampered. While taking the time to relax and treat
yourself is important, for those of us living with a chronic
illness or disability, the best self-care can be a bit more mundane.
Hannah Daisy, a mental health occupational therapist and founder
of #BoringSelfCare, promotes wellbeing-based self-care through her series
of #BoringSelfCare illustrations. For us,
self-care isn’t about treating ourselves but instead nurturing ourselves and
making choices for our long-term wellness.
Last January, I went from a 40 hour work week to 32 hours. I am
lucky enough to have 3-day weekends. Fridays are mine – I write, read, watch
television, get a manicure, or just nap. These days are about recovery and
conserving energy. I used to think I needed to be ‘productive’ all the time. I
have realized that that nap may be the best thing for me.
Self-care sometimes means making tough decisions, asking for help. It involves being painfully honest with
yourself and your loved ones about what you need.
