Self-care 2025

“Self-care is a deliberate choice to gift ourself with people, places, things, events, and opportunities that recharge our personal battery and promote whole health – body, mind and spirit.”  Laurie Buchanan

This week’s discussion is self-care, and this is a timely one for me as I am heading off on leave for a week prior to a conference.  I fly out on Wednesday to the lovely Apple Isle – Tasmania.  We have booked the accommodation around the island and then have two days in Hobart.  My husband will fly home after the week and then I am attending the Rural and Remote Mental Health conference for three days of learning and networking.

We have visited Tasmania a few times already, so we have planned the week with various stops.  Top of my list is the fresh seafood, which is not native to our region.  The chance to indulge in this, is a welcome change for me.  The bonus of not having to cook for ten days is also appreciated and will be enjoyed. 

Part of my self-care is the opportunity to turn off my work hat.  I have made a conscious decision not to complete the social media aspect of my work during this time.  I made this decision last time I took a big break from work, and I really enjoyed the downtime, rather than busily programming before the break.  This decision has allowed me to prepare myself for the break and has ensured that I am not so fatigued and able to enjoy the experience.

I have already booked the out of office sign on my Facebook page in readiness for Wednesday morning.

So, self-care will be connecting with my husband and meeting a couple of colleagues and friends who reside in the Island.  Taking time to enjoy the scenery with some gentle exercise (walking) and food.  All the things that bring joy and connection.

I am also looking forward to the conference, interestingly they have made a deliberate choice to include some wellness activities at the conference.  For me, as a solo clinician – it is always interesting to hear and see what other regions are doing for their own communities.  The keynote speakers look amazing and have a range of topics.  The hardest part of the conference is deciding which stream to attend and so far, I have only picked out the first day!

What do you do for self-care?  Are you giving your whole self, a complete re-charge, that fills your mind, body and spirit?  Or do you need to tweak or start your self-care plan?