Why it is important to take care of yourself
Self-care is not a bubble bath, a glass of wine or watching tv after a hectic day. Taking care of yourself is so much more complex than taking one or two moments to unwind. It requires intent and planning. It won’t just happen. If anything, not being intentional about your care is a decision to ignore it.
Your self-care must be holistic. This means you should focus on the physical, mental and spiritual side of who you are. Jesus told us to love the Lord our God with our everything (Matthew 22:36-37). Paul went on to describe our bodies as God’s temple and to charge us to care for them fully (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). We are to care for every aspect of our being. You are heart, soul, mind and strength. When you fully surrender to the greatest commandment - a holistic love of God - and practice self-care c, the second greatest commandment- to love your neighbor as yourself, will naturally pour out.
Are you paying attention to your physical health?
You cannot give what you do not have. Burn out is real and sidelines amazing givers, volunteers and even pastors because they neglect to practice some self-care. An overloaded schedule that prevents you from going to doctor appointments, eating healthy and exercising helps no one. Hit the gym or take a walk with a friend. Take the time to enjoy your meals and make healthy choices and don’t skip your doctor visits. The overused example to put your oxygen mask on first in the event of an emergency is so true. You can’thelp others breathe during a plane crash if you’ve passed out from lack of oxygen. Take care of the body God gave you.
What about your mental health?
The same is true of your mental health. Make it a priority. Centerpoint Church offers resources and free counseling to help you find your way. We are working hard to eliminate the stigma of mental health in the Christian community. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. We are here for you.
Don’t forget your soul
Your professional life is compatible with your spiritual life. Your physical health and mental health are also compatible with your soul. To love God with your everything means exactly that. You are to love with all of your emotions, with all of your intellect, with all of your talent and with all of your being.
The best self-care is learning to maintain a relationship with the Lord. Find the quiet moments to sit in the wonder and awe of who God is. Take time to care for your physical body, it’s the only one you get. Learn to open up and seek out mental health services when needed. Dig into your faith and ask the hard questions. It is important to take care of every aspect of yourself.