We all love a little indulgence. The scent of a fresh bath bomb, the joy of a new candle, or the simple pleasure of an occasional massage. But while these moments can be blissful, it’s crucial to understand that they’re just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to self-wellness.
There’s been a buzz in the air about self-care lately. However, the essence of self-care isn’t just about pampering yourself. Enter the lesser-discussed, but equally important, concept of self-soothing. Here, we’ll dive into both and help you distinguish between the two, ensuring your well-being gets a 360-degree treatment.
Self-Care vs. Self-Soothing: Unpacking the Difference
Sahaj Kohli, founder of Brown Girl Therapy, sheds light on the distinction. “Self-care supports long-term growth, helping individuals feel centered.” It’s about cultivating habits that leave a lasting, positive impact on your mental and physical well-being.
When you think self-care, picture:
- Routine health check-ups
- Prioritizing hydration
- Seeking therapy
- Establishing a meditation regimen
- Creating and sticking to a budget
On the flip side, self-soothing is about immediate comfort. When life’s stresses threaten to take over, these acts serve as a temporary buffer. They’re your go-to for instant relief. From savoring a favorite snack to binge-watching your favorite series, these are activities that help you momentarily switch off from the surrounding chaos.
Striking the Right Balance
But how do you know which one you need and when?
Self-care is about being proactive. It’s the conscious effort you make to ensure your well-being in the long run. However, on some challenging days, the allure of self-soothing activities might be too strong to resist. And that’s okay – in moderation.
For instance, skipping a workout after a tiresome day might be just what you need. But when you find these occasional indulgences overshadowing the routines meant for your lasting well-being, it’s time for introspection.
If your weekend shopping sprees begin to interfere with your budgeting goals, it’s a signal to reassess. As Leo Flanagan, Ph.D., highlights, “Over-reliance on self-soothing can provide temporary escape but may not offer long-term benefits.”
So, the key is to find that sweet spot. Understand your needs, both immediate and long-term, and adjust your self-care and self-soothing activities to create a harmonious balance.
Tailoring Wellness to You
The golden rule? There’s no one-size-fits-all. What’s therapeutic for one might not resonate with another. And it’s essential to acknowledge that certain practices, like therapy, might not be accessible to all.
But the core philosophy remains universal: A blend of self-care and self-soothing tailored to your unique needs will pave the path to a richer, more fulfilled life. So, embrace both, find your equilibrium, and flourish!
