WHAT DOES SELF-CARE MEAN TO YOU?

I have been thinking a lot about 1st Corinthians 6: 19- 20, trying to figure out what God means when He says my body is His temple, the duties expected of me as His caretaker and most importantly, how I will maintain my sanity, juggling between my duties to my family and to self. No matter how we choose to interpret this responsibility, we all deserve to take care of ourselves as much as we take care of others, “self-care is not selfishness.” We know that our bodies are mortal and sooner or later, we’re going to lose this flesh but, in the meantime, it is our duty to take care of these bodies. Each time I think about taking care of my body I think about taking care of my mind, physique, and spirituality.

The past three years have been so comfortable, safe, and fun. I had an excuse for everything including neglecting my physical health. I’d always blame it on hormones and fatigue, but the truth is, I could have found a way to take care of myself if I really wanted to. However, I am now in a new era where I’m committed to taking care of my body starting with exercising, being mindful of what I put into my mouth and getting adequate rest.

At some point in life, I felt like taking time off was an inconvenience. Unfortunately, I did not achieve anything. I was so desperate to prove that I am a hardworking woman who can do it all. What I did not realize is that doing it all does not mean being all over the place, you can do it all, one task at a time. An achievement is an achievement, even if it takes you longer to achieve the same things your peers have in less time. It’s important to work hard but it’s also important to rest. I’m not trying to burn myself out, I’m just trying to be the best version of myself. To achieve that, I need to listen to my body more and rest when it tells me to. I got this principle from the creation week. God created the world in Six Days and rested on the seventh day. If God took a break from everything, who am I to deprive my body of it?

It has taken me a long time to understand the concept of honouring God through my food choices. Because God dwells within me, I have committed to only consume food which nourishes my body. This commitment entails serving my family and guests with wholesome meals that are good for their health. When it comes to my mind, I’m so particular about what I read and the company I keep around me. If your goal is to have a healthy mind, choose your friends wisely, read widely, detox as often as you can and remember to stay connected to God.

Do not limit your detox to teas, let go of the stress, toxins, toxic relationships, and unhealthy habits. The company you keep will either build you or destroy you. “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers...” I consider it an honour and a blessing that God dwells in me and I’m going to give him the best version of myself.

By Shamiso Patience Mbiriri