Why I’m Kinda Over the Word “Self-Care”

Okay, I’ve gotta be real. I don’t love the term “self-care.”

It’s overused and sometimes feels like it’s all about bubble baths and scented candles. Not that those are bad – but self-care is way bigger than a cute Instagram post.

At its core, self-care is simply tending to your physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing so you can actually show up in your life—present, capable, and energized.

Why Self-Care Isn’t Selfish

You can’t pour from an empty cup. You can’t show up fully for your relationships, your purpose, or the people counting on you if your own body and mind are running on fumes.

The ancient Greeks understood this. They saw caring for oneself as essential, not for indulgence but for building character and becoming useful to the world.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. put it beautifully: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’”

But here’s the thing:

You can only give sustainably when you’re well.

Not perfect. Just resourced, grounded, and connected to your own energy.

Ask Yourself: What Are You Doing With Your Energy?

A powerful question to guide your days is:

“What am I doing with this energy and good health? How can I use it to make a positive difference?”

Self-care isn’t just about improving your life. It’s about amplifying the good you’re able to create in the world.

5 Daily Rituals That Keep Me Grounded

Here are a few habits that help me stay energized, healthy, and ready to show up fully:

1 — I pray or meditate

A few quiet minutes help me reset, remember my purpose, and feel grounded.

(Several times in a day, if I don’t get my one hour in, first thing when I wake up.)

2 — I move my body

I break a sweat six days a week. My muscles, joints, and heart stay strong. Plus, hello endorphins!

Exercise works at least as well against anxiety, as SSRI drugs, according to multiple studies.

[Related: Have You Tried This Easy 4-Minute Workout?]

[Related: Is Walking Actually Exercise? How Walking Daily Can Radically Improve Your Health As You Age]

3 — I protect my sleep

I am asleep by 11 pm.

Sleep isn’t optional. It’s how I stay focused, happy, and resilient. And an hour before midnight is worth two hours after midnight!

4 — I connect with someone I love

A meaningful conversation or a hug fills my emotional tank like nothing else.

5 — I drink a quart of green smoothie or juice.

Think kale, mixed greens, ginger, lime, berries, cabbage, and aloe vera. Energizing, alkalizing, and disease-fighting – my daily health powerhouse.

[Related: Juicing or Smoothies: Which One Is Best for You?]

Your Version of Self-Care Can Look Different

I hope you don’t take my actions as a prescription.

These habits work for me, but they don’t have to be yours.

Self-care isn’t one-size-fits-all. The key is noticing what your body and mind truly need – and letting your routines evolve with you.

A Challenge for You

Take a look at your daily patterns and ask yourself:

• Are these habits filling my cup, or draining it?

• And how can I use the energy I gain to make a positive impact?

Self-care isn’t selfish.

It’s preparation for being the kind of person who can handle life with clarity, presence, and generosity.

I’d love to hear from you: what daily rituals keep you feeling alive, happy, and healthy? Drop them in the comments below!

 

Nothing in my life has done as much for me than my bi-annual DETOX, and we’re starting Jan. 5–check it out here! John’s done it with me 16 times in the last 8 years!