If Self-Care was a Stranger

What would self-care look like if we approached it as we would a new acquaintance? In this episode, Jill and Linda explore this question through their own experiences - from finding unexpected reading moments during summer play to recognizing how we speak differently about self-care to others versus ourselves. Their conversation reveals fresh perspectives on making self-care feel less like an obligation and more like a welcome presence in our lives.

Key Insights from Our Conversation

Making Space for What Matters

Linda shares how she's adapted her reading habits, keeping a book by the door instead of reaching for her phone during outdoor playtime with her children. This small shift shows how self-care can fit naturally into our daily rhythms rather than requiring dramatic lifestyle changes.

Speaking Our Self-Care Out Loud

When we name our self-care actions - whether at a business, the skate park, or during family time - we normalize it for others and ourselves. Jill describes how her son now understands and can explain to others what self-care means, creating a ripple effect of awareness and permission.

Finding Familiarity in the Unfamiliar

Sometimes self-care feels strange, like during six days of caring for a sick child. The hosts discuss how these moments, though challenging, can teach us new ways to rest and care for ourselves within difficult circumstances.

Changing the Narrative

Rather than viewing self-care as a distant concept or an intimidating stranger, we can approach it with curiosity and openness. It might appear as a mirror showing us what we need, or as a wise grandmother figure offering gentle guidance based on lived experience.

Your Invitation to Self-Care

Consider how you might welcome self-care into your life this week. Perhaps it's bringing a book outside during playtime, speaking openly about your need for rest, or simply acknowledging that sometimes self-care looks different than expected. Remember, like any new relationship, your connection with self-care can grow stronger with time and attention.

Join us for our upcoming 100th episode celebration, where we'll be exploring new ways to understand and embrace self-care. Stay tuned for special events and collaborative opportunities as we continue building this community together.

Ready to make self-care feel more familiar? Tune in next week as we continue to "unstuck your muck" and explore practical ways to care for ourselves and our families.

Connect with Jill at www.mamaoutspoken.com and Linda at www.lindabonney.com.