We often think of self care as “healthy” activities like yoga or cooking a meal. But self care, especially in times of crisis, can take many forms.
Self care for crisis can include:
- Numbing
- Processing
- Releasing
- Soothing
- Wallowing
Numbing
We’re often quick to judge numbing activities. But when we’re experiencing overwhelming feelings, it’s important to take breaks. Numbing gives our bodies space to calm down.
Some examples: binge-watching TV, watching porn, eating junk food, zoning out
Releasing
When a feeling has us so triggered that we feel completely consumed by it, we need to let it out. What’s important when releasing is that we do it safely enough that we don’t harm ourselves or others.
Some examples: crying, punching a pillow, throwing things, screaming, going on a run//cardio
Processing
These are activities we may think of as more clasically healthy — ones that help us move the feelings through and integrate them. They’re important, but no more so than other types of self care.
Some examples: journaling, creating art, talking with a friend, therapy, going on a walk
Soothing
These are activities that calm our nervous system and make it a little easier to be in our body. They may share some overlap with numbing — but instead of pausing the feelings, they help us hold them.
Some examples: listening to music, cooking, taking a bath or shower, gardening, napping
Wallowing
Although wallowing may sound judgmental, it’s really just about being in the feelings. What’s important is knowing when to stop — to give yourself a break by trying on one of the other forms of self care.
Some examples: looking at photos of someone you’ve lost, feeling self pity, diving into upsetting memories
((Any or all of these examples might not work for you, or they might fit into different categories for you than they do for me))
Katherine Yeagel 