So you dance, teach, choreograph, parent, volunteer, and advocate - the list goes on and on. 30-somethings do a lot with their increased ability to "change the world". Along with our multiple titles and tasks, we easily forget how vital taking care of us is, especially when we work to serve others.
Don't forget it! Self-care is critical, especially at this time in our lives when burnout is common. What is important is creating the time to feed your passion. Note: I said creating the time not finding the time. So what is your passion?
Mine has always been dance. But I'm no longer in my twenties or a college student with the privilege to take technique class 3-5 times a week. And now I have more responsibilities like a full-time job, two children, a small dance company and a mortgage. With many obligations, taking a dance class can easily fall off my to-do list. So what do I do? I keep it real.
I've made a pact with myself that I will never go longer than two weeks without taking class, resulting in dancing at least twice a month. I know, it sounds like hardly anything, but sticking to this reasonable plan keeps me from never saying, "OMG, it's been months since I've danced." And so much happens on a given day that having this time for myself feels incredibly nourishing, and it keeps me present in the technical dance class scene.
My other self-care duty is a massage at least every 2-3 months. I'll never forget when my grad school modern dance teacher told me he is as serious about his weekly massages as he is paying his phone bill. My budget doesn't support this frequency, but I owe it to myself to put some hard-earned cash aside to take care of my body. I mean c'mon this is our livelihood and physical instrument!
So what is important to you? Getting that mani and pedi? Taking a hike or swim in the ocean? Visiting your favorite spot or best friend. Whatever it is that makes you feel good and loved, make a commitment to complete at least one of your passions in a reasonable time frame, and don't be hard on yourself. The point of self-care is not to feel like you have failed for not keeping your promise. Set a realistic timeline and goal. Go easy at first. You can always add more. And you'll feel good that the boss in you says you have to do it. In the end you'll see it is worth it.
Do you have a self-care regimen that works for you or ideas to add? Please share in the comment box, and remember to create time for yourself!
Don't forget it! Self-care is critical, especially at this time in our lives when burnout is common. What is important is creating the time to feed your passion. Note: I said creating the time not finding the time. So what is your passion?
Mine has always been dance. But I'm no longer in my twenties or a college student with the privilege to take technique class 3-5 times a week. And now I have more responsibilities like a full-time job, two children, a small dance company and a mortgage. With many obligations, taking a dance class can easily fall off my to-do list. So what do I do? I keep it real.
I've made a pact with myself that I will never go longer than two weeks without taking class, resulting in dancing at least twice a month. I know, it sounds like hardly anything, but sticking to this reasonable plan keeps me from never saying, "OMG, it's been months since I've danced." And so much happens on a given day that having this time for myself feels incredibly nourishing, and it keeps me present in the technical dance class scene.
My other self-care duty is a massage at least every 2-3 months. I'll never forget when my grad school modern dance teacher told me he is as serious about his weekly massages as he is paying his phone bill. My budget doesn't support this frequency, but I owe it to myself to put some hard-earned cash aside to take care of my body. I mean c'mon this is our livelihood and physical instrument!
So what is important to you? Getting that mani and pedi? Taking a hike or swim in the ocean? Visiting your favorite spot or best friend. Whatever it is that makes you feel good and loved, make a commitment to complete at least one of your passions in a reasonable time frame, and don't be hard on yourself. The point of self-care is not to feel like you have failed for not keeping your promise. Set a realistic timeline and goal. Go easy at first. You can always add more. And you'll feel good that the boss in you says you have to do it. In the end you'll see it is worth it.
Do you have a self-care regimen that works for you or ideas to add? Please share in the comment box, and remember to create time for yourself!
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