Starting the new school year with self-care

My dog, Gemma, is a rescue dog, a twelve-year-old corgi mix. As an older dog now, Gemma needs medication for joints and special supplements and vitamins. Patient, sweet, and devoted, Gemma is part of my family. I'd do pretty much anything to keep her healthy and comfortable. One day after the latest Chewy order had arrived, I noted that the dog's expenses have increased steadily. I also noted: if I'm willing to spend extra each month to keep Gemma healthy, why don't I extend that same generosity to myself when I need support for exercise or strength training to keep me well? Are we not worthy of the same care we afford our pets?

I'm now enrolled in strength training and Zumba classes after a small investment in gym membership and gear, but I'm healthier and happier. Unwittingly, I had replicated a typical pattern with women — we sometimes spend time, energy, and money on family members’ health and well-being (both human and pets) while forgetting to do that for ourselves.

Self-care doesn't mean lavish vacations or over-the-top spa treatments, and self-care will vary depending on individual temperaments and needs. But taking care of our basic physical and mental health through exercise, healthy diet, friendship and connection, and meaningful work should not be a luxury for anyone.

As you start the school year and you're taking care of children, or pets, or other family members, remember to care for your basic needs:

• Do you have time and place for exercise for your body?

• Do you have meaningful work?

• Is your spirit fed?

• Do you schedule regular check-ups for physical and mental health?

• Are your meals feeding you the nutrition and the joy you need?

What else does self-care mean for you? As a strong extrovert, self-care for me means time (a lot of time!) with people. For my more introverted friends, it may mean some quiet time alone at the beach.

Wishing you a balanced, healthy, and meaningful “new year”!