The importance of creating a space for self-care
/“Self-care is something that refuels us, rather than takes from us. ”
Making room for self-care
Self-care has been a buzzword for several years now, so most of us have heard about the importance of making space and time for ourselves. But can we achieve self-care within our homes when other areas of the home may be out of alignment?
I’ve had clients who have had a love for art, music, gardening or writing only to have it buried underneath household clutter. Most of these individuals were not prioritizing themselves or their interests because they believed they had too many other things to worry about. By unearthing their passions and finding space for them to shine within their homes, we created a logical starting point for self-care.
Think you have to wait until the whole house is decluttered and organized? WRONG.
By creating a space uniquely yours, free from clutter, you are allowing your home to be a place of refuge. I have seen this small practice lead to long-term, sustainable decluttering motivation.
Identify what you need
What your sister, mother, or friend may consider self-care may not be self-care for you. I cannot tell you what self-care should look like in your life, but I can give you examples of what my clients have identified for themselves and I can help you start to make room whatever you choose!
Dedicated yoga/meditation space
Reading/journaling nook
Coffee/tea sanctuary
Nightstand (morning or bedtime ritual)
Bathroom countertop
Writing/art desk
If you have just begun to think about self-care, you must find simple ways to implement it into your life. The examples above are great because they are realistic, achievable, and may be based on strong interests you already have.
Once you have identified what type of space you would like to create for yourself, you should communicate your intentions with everyone in your household.
Make your intentions clear
Tell your family why you are wanting to create a space for self-care and ask them to respect that space. Self-care is not selfish. Let me repeat that. SELF-CARE IS NOT SELFISH. It does not require buy-in from others. Self-care is required so you can care for those around you.
Declutter the negative
There should be nothing in your self-care space that doesn’t bring joy, contentment, or comfort. Self-care space no-no’s:
Paperwork
Trash
Laundry
To-do lists or items that need attention
Anything that invokes negative memories, shame, or guilt
Grab a box and start packing up everything that doesn’t belong in your new space. Do not worry about sorting or re-homing those misfit items until you are done creating your space!
Curate for inspiration
What inspires you? What do you need? Choose items for your space that are functional and inspirational. If you are creating a writing nook, be sure to have plenty of your favorite writing utensils on hand. If you are choosing to create space in your morning for a coffee/tea ritual, find a cup that brings you joy and only use your favorite products.
Practice & flourish
Schedule a regular time, daily or weekly, to practice self-care. Physically block time in your calendar for this practice and share your intentions with those around you. Remember, this is non-negotiable. You need time to flourish so you can be the best that you can be!
After each self-care session, prepare your space for next time. If it is a reading nook, you may want to neatly fold your throw blanket and place your reading glasses and book beside your chair. Replenish supplies in your self-care area, whatever they may be, so when you return everything is ready for you and you can begin to refuel again.
For more guidance on implementing a mindful self-care practice or for help finding space in your home for yourself, contact Aimee today!
Aimee Olson of Life Done Simply is a Productivity and Organizing Coach & Public Speaker, and is a member of the National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals (NAPO).
