Pyramid of Self-Care

Self-care is essential for both mental and physical health. Self-care is "the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's own health” and “the practice of taking an active role in protecting one's own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress” (Oxford).

There appears to be some misconception that self-care is something of a luxury, an indulgence or ‘selfish’. However self-care (caring for oneself) is a necessary part of staying well. It involves basic things such as choosing the right food to eat, engaging in exercise, nurturing relationships, committing to forming good habits and paying your taxes on time, as well as sleeping in, getting a massage, speaking up or walking out.

The issue comes from what people interpret as 'self-care'. A bit like self-compassion - rather than being an indulgence - it supports us to build resilience and make decisions which benefit our future selves. People may get stuck when they focus on a form of self-care which is short term - externally focused - indulgences such as getting a pedicure, having a long hot soak in the bath or going out for a meal. There is nothing wrong with these at all (and if it gives you pleasure - then please continue!), however taking part in these activities without paying attention to the foundations of self-care is going to leave you struggling to truly see improvements in long term well-being. (See the diagram below).

In order to create long term wellness and have mental and physical well-being - we need to start with the basics, the long term fundamentals of self-care.

Below is a little description of the levels of self-care - Level One being at the bottom of the pyramid.

LEVEL ONE:
These are the essentials. If you don't have these you will (basically) not survive. There are many levels among these - however - getting the best quality of all these things are the true basics of self-care.
LEVEL TWO:
These are shown in research to contribute to longevity - the opposite (loneliness) is one of the top contributors to an early death.
LEVEL THREE:
Positive employment (paid or unpaid), passion and purpose highly contribute to mental health and well-being. Unhappiness in employment has significant impact on mental and physical health
LEVEL FOUR:
Deepening mental and spiritual well-being
LEVEL FIVE:
The sweet stuff; fun, holidays, experiences and adventure
LEVEL SIX: The superfluous! Luxuries, indulgences, short term pleasures.

I highly encourage you - next time you think you need some self-care - mix it up a little. Yes - perhaps indulge in a massage or a manicure, but also - focus on your sleep, make sure you are eating well, breathe long and slow, drink a few glasses of water and always - eat your vegetables.

For more on self care - please see: Self-Care 100 Ways