The Introvert Introspects

The discussion and propagation of self-care has recently risen to popularity in the last few years due in part to the masses' increasing regard for health and wellness. Contrary to popular belief, self-love isn't always enjoyable or easy. Sometimes, it feels like hard work, perseverance and determination. I was introduced to the idea of self-care through a good friend, introspection and good old research. While the concept wasn't entirely foreign to me, it wasn't until last year that I understood what self-care truly meant.

I won't pretend that I'm an expert in the topic of self-care because I'm far from it. However, I did feel compelled to write about it because it's become such an important part of my life. Here are some self-care myths that, I realized, aren't always necessarily true:

Eat whatever you want. Nope. Nope. Nope. There's a rampant assumption that self-care is all about taking care of your soul when that couldn't be farther from the truth. Self-care is taking care of your body, mind and soul. Consuming whatever you want without any regard for nutrition leaves your body malnourished, consequently making it more difficult to take care of the rest of you. Go ahead, indulge in a chocolate bar once in awhile but please do yourself a favor - eat better!

Do not force yourself to socialize. This largely depends on the circumstances. I'm an introvert at heart and there is nothing more tempting than to stay in my pajamas, binge watch netflix and drink hot tea for the rest of my life. However, that's not always a good thing. Isolating yourself only plunges you into stagnation and depression. It's good to strike a balance between some good old 'me-time' and tete-a-tetes with loved ones. After all, "no man is an island". **Important side note: If a person is toxic, cut them loose. There's no point in keeping up with people who only add negativity to your life.

Don't do anything! This is pretty much an extension of number two - it also depends on the circumstances. Do nothing day is relaxing. However, more often than not, being productive produces a more positive effect in your life in the long-run. Let's say you procrastinated because you felt like doing nothing. Getting back on schedule will leave you more stressed because you're falling behind. It's important to know your responsibilities and to commit to them. Productivity also increases your sense of accomplishment and self-worth, especially after you achieve a goal. So push yourself - do your laundry, wake up early to get to work on time, exercise. It might not be an alluring prospect as of the moment, but future you will definitely be thankful for it.