Do you know of any self-care practices for mental health? How can you distance yourself from toxic work dynamics?
Dr. Thema Bryant-Davis and Mel Robbins challenge the misconception that self-care equates to selfishness. On The Mel Robbins Podcast, Bryant-Davis says taking care of oneself is essential, regardless of conviction.
Continue reading for some self-care practices that you can use every day, whether at home or work.
Self-Care as a Personal Right: Breaking the Stigma
The stigma around self-care practices for mental health is challenged as Bryant-Davis encourages individuals to prioritize their well-being. She underscores the necessity of undertaking self-care steps, such as mindfulness and relaxation before sleep, emphasizing its role in fostering a secure sense of self and purpose, even when one doesn’t feel entirely confident or ready to initiate these practices.
Environmental Impacts on Self-Connection and Purpose
Bryant-Davis examines the role of negative environments, such as toxic relationships and workplaces, in creating a disconnect that stifles aspirations and self-connectedness.
A pertinent example is the anecdote of a woman who longed for her mother’s affectionate words, which were unfamiliar to her mother who battled addiction and was absent for much of her daughter’s life.
This reflects on how adverse past environments can shape one’s ability to comfortably express and connect with their emotions.
Weaving Self-Care into Everyday Life
Bryant-Davis and Robbins advocate for daily self-care practices, particularly emphasizing the role of rituals and routines in reinforcing self-connection. They discuss the importance of engaging in relaxing activities before sleep as a method to cultivate a secure and restful mental state.
Through this discussion, listeners are encouraged to question their nightly routines and consider healthier alternatives that might promote better self-connection and self-care.
Staying True to Oneself Amidst Toxic Work Dynamics
When discussing professional life stressors, Bryant-Davis recommends the establishment of a morning ritual as a protective measure against the mental and physical toll of toxic work environments.
She underlines the power of starting the day with enriching activities such as enjoying music, performing stretches, or engaging with uplifting content to foster a grounded attitude.
This active approach to self-care is crucial for maintaining one’s well-being and identity, especially when facing the challenges of a dysfunctional work setting.
Context
Self-care has emerged as a crucial aspect of maintaining mental and emotional well-being in today’s fast-paced world. It encompasses a range of actions and practices undertaken to promote self-connection, purpose, and overall life satisfaction. Self-care is not just a luxury; it is a personal right that everyone deserves. However, there is still a stigma surrounding self-care that needs to be broken. Society often views self-care as selfish or indulgent, but in reality, it is essential for individuals to prioritize their own needs in order to thrive.
Environmental factors play a significant role in our ability to engage in self-care. Toxic work dynamics can erode our sense of identity and purpose, making it challenging to prioritize ourselves amidst demanding schedules and expectations. Establishing rituals and routines can help create space for self-care within our daily lives. Rituals are symbolic actions performed regularly with intention, while routines are sequences of activities followed consistently. By incorporating these practices into our lives, we can cultivate mindfulness and relaxation techniques that allow us to be fully present and aware of our thoughts, feelings, and sensations.
