Taking Charge: Self-Care Rituals That Nurture the Love in You...and Your Workplace?
Let's start a global movement and move self-love to the top of the priority list together!
- Misha Safran, PCC, MA
What does self-love have to do with workplace culture and health?
Over the next several weeks I am going to address this. Are you ready to love yourself because you deserve it? Or perhaps you are ready to love yourself so you can make a positive impact at home or in the workplace?
Either way, Taking the time for self-care is not selfish and not a luxury; it's a necessity and an authentic demonstration of self love, especially for those of you who often juggle multiple responsibilities.
Self-love is a fundamental aspect of self-care, and its impact extends beyond personal life to influence workplace culture and health. When employees practice self-love, they cultivate a positive mindset, which, in turn, enhances their professional performance and interactions.
Now, don't get me wrong - it's not ALL about the employee loving themself. The workplace and/or other areas of one's life are not off the hook. However, this is a meaningful way to change your own life and empower what happens in it, one day at a time.
Here are a few ways self-love contributes to a healthy workplace culture:
Empowering self-care rituals go beyond mere pampering; they encompass practices that rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. Mindfulness exercises are a powerful tool in this regard. Techniques like meditation and deep breathing not only calm the mind but also foster a sense of self-awareness, empowering you to navigate challenges with healthy resilience.
One breathing exercise which is extremely easy to implement throughout your day is the square breath. Just like a square has four sides, this exercise has four steps: 1. Breathe in through your nose 2. Hold your breath briefly 3. Release your breath, exhaling from your mouth and, 4. Hold your breath briefly again and repeat. Once you've done this just a few times, notice your body relaxing.
Healthy habits form the cornerstone of self-care. From nourishing meals to regular physical activity, prioritizing one's physical well-being is an act of self-love. This can involve everything from adopting a balanced diet to finding joy in movement, whether through a workout routine or simply going for a walk. Additionally, tips for managing stress are invaluable. Strategies such as setting boundaries, practicing time management, and engaging in hobbies can help you create spaces of tranquility amid life's demands.
Reflection Questions:
What self-care practices currently empower you, and how do they contribute to your well-being and self-love?
Are there mindfulness exercises or healthy habits that you've been meaning to incorporate into your routine but haven't? If so, what's been blocking you and what are you willing to do to implement just one exercise or habit?
How can you adjust your schedule to prioritize self-care without feeling guilty or overwhelmed?
Taking the time to reflect on these questions can be the first step towards establishing empowering self-care rituals that contribute to your overall sense of self-love, well-being, and healthy resilience.
Finally, what does really work for you? Please share these tips with folks, by placing them in the comments. Let's start a global movement and move self-love to the top of the priority list together!!! I would love to read your answers in the comments below or feel free to send me a message.
In solidarity and with love,
Misha Safran, PCC, MA
Relationship Coach and Strategist for the Home and Workplace
Land Acknowledgement: Born on the land of the Anacostans, Piscataway, and Pamunkey peoples. Currently living on Karkin Ohlone land.
All are valued in my practice: BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, humans of all backgrounds and ages. Through sharing my pronouns, I hope to support a safer and braver space for all professionals to share their pronouns.
