Self-Care Without Bubbles or Perfection
Have you ever felt like self-care sounded nice… but also completely unrealistic for the season you’re in? Or maybe self-care feels selfish or lavish. From seasons of early motherhood filled with self-care guilt to a healing season where self-care became mandatory, I understand how jaded thoughts about self-care can creep in.
Somewhere along the way, self-care got dressed up as something polished and picture-perfect. Long routines. Quiet mornings. Extra time we don’t actually have. And when we can’t keep up, it’s easy to feel like we’re doing it wrong. I’ve lived here for so long, friends.
But real self-care—the kind that actually supports healing and joy—looks different in different seasons. I’ve learned this both personally and professionally. When your body is tired, when life feels heavy, when energy is limited, care has to be simple to be sustainable. Not indulgent. Not impressive. Just kind.
One Joy Tip
Redefine self-care as support, not escape.
Instead of asking, “What should I be doing?” try asking, “What would help me feel a little more supported right now?” That small mindset shift can make all the difference.
Sometimes that looks like rest. Sometimes it’s nourishment. Sometimes it’s saying no without explaining (oh, that one feels good!). Sometimes it’s doing something fun—something you love that fuels you. For me, it’s painting my own nails—old school style: base coat, color, top coat. It’s simple, easy, inexpensive, and takes about ten minutes. I pick colors before procedures and surgeries (to keep me distracted), sometimes themes for a holiday or season. I enjoy it.
Fifty-four months healing. Seventeen months on crutches. Joy still counts.
Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate to be effective—it just has to meet you where you are.
Scripture to Hold for Joy
“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
— Matthew 11:28
— Matthew 11:28
Joy for the Journey
You don’t need perfect routines to care for yourself well. Gentle, consistent care counts—especially in hard seasons. And remember: doing something fun matters too.
Let’s Journey Together with Joy
If you’re learning how to care for yourself in a way that fits your real life—not an ideal one (been there)—I share simple, faith-filled rhythms that support joy, healing, and sustainable self-care without pressure or perfection.
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