Faithfully Balanced: Finding Peace and Purpose Through Self-Care

Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Mark 6:23 (NIV)

Jesus knew the importance of self-care. We can get so caught up in work, our To Do list, caring for others, serving at church, that we don’t take time to care for ourselves.

The Bible teaches that one way to serve God is by serving others. We can get lost in our desire to serve others. We neglect our own needs. Jesus emphasized one of the great commandments to “love your neighbor as yourself”.

It’s difficult to do that if we are pouring from an empty cup. 

Jesus knew if we don’t take time to refresh our spirit, soul, and body, we burnout. Let's follow His example to live faithfully balanced lives. When we do, we experience more peace and purpose. 

Did you know He chose solitude over people six times?

✨ To prepare for ministry: After Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit led him into the desert for 40 days to pray. After being tempted, He returned to Galilee in the power of the Holy Spirit and began His ministry. (Luke 4:1-15)

✨ To simply pray: Jesus often slipped away from the crowds to a quiet place to pray. (Luke 5:16)

✨ Before making an important decision: Jesus was preparing to choose His 12 disciples and went to a mountainside to pray. (Luke 6:12-13)

✨ To recharge after work: Jesus sent the disciples out two by two to share the good news and heal the sick. When they returned, Jesus took them to a quiet place to rest. (Mark 6:6-12, 30-32)

✨ To grieve: Jesus sought solitude after hearing about the death of His cousin, John the Baptist. (Matthew 14:1-13)

✨ In a time of anguish: Jesus was in anguish over His approaching physical pain, separation from God, and death because of our sin. It overwhelmed his soul to the point of death. (Matthew 26:36-46)

Today, we’re diving into a topic that many of us can relate to; feeling burnt out and not taking enough time for ourselves. In the hustle and bustle of serving our families, communities, and churches, it’s easy to forget about self-care. But let’s remind ourselves why it’s not just a luxury but a necessity. 

So, grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and let’s chat about the importance of self-care.

The Burnout Blues: 5 Risks of Neglecting Self-Care

In the fast-paced world of serving others and living out our faith, it's all too easy for us to forget about self-care. Yet, by neglecting our own well-being, we unwittingly expose ourselves to the 'Burnout Blues.' These are the subtle but significant risks that lurk in the shadows when we pour all our energy into others and overlook ourselves.

❌ Spiritual Exhaustion: When we’re constantly giving to others, our spiritual well can run dry. Neglecting self-care can lead to a weakening of our connection with God.

❌ Emotional Drain: Neglecting self-care can leave us emotionally drained and feeling frustrated, resentful, or bitter.

❌ Physical Health Woes: Ignoring self-care can cause physical health issues such as fatigue, headaches, or even more severe conditions because of chronic stress.

❌ Strained Relationships: Burnout can take a toll on our relationships. We may become irritable or distant, affecting our connections with loved ones.

❌ Diminished Effectiveness: We might think we’re doing a good job by constantly serving, but over time, our effectiveness diminishes as we operate from a depleted state.

Studies show that practicing self-care leads to greater happiness, peace, and purpose. See for yourself by clicking the link below.

The Efficacy of Self-Care

Self-care needs are different for everyone. Although your needs may be different, make sure you focus on all categories of self-care. This includes emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual self-care.

The Blissful Benefits: 5 Reasons to Prioritize Self-Care

While the 'Burnout Blues' may be all too familiar, it's equally important to recognize the flip side of the coin—the 'Blissful Benefits' of prioritizing self-care in our lives. Self-care isn't just about pampering oneself; it's a powerful means to enrich our spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. 

Self-care is not only a gift to ourselves but also a source of blessings that radiate outward, enhancing our relationships and the way we live out our faith. Self-care enhances inner peace and fuels your divine purpose.

💖 Renewed Spirituality: Taking time for self-care can help us reconnect with God. Whether through prayer, meditation, or quiet reflection, it’s a chance to nurture our faith.

💖 Emotional Well-being: Self-care allows us to recharge emotionally. We can better manage stress, develop resilience, and respond to challenges with grace.

💖 Improved Physical Health: Taking care of ourselves through exercise and healthy eating gives us the energy to handle daily tasks.

💖 Stronger Relationships: When we’re well-rested and emotionally balanced, our relationships flourish. We can be more present and loving to those we care about.

💖 Enhanced Productivity: Believe it or not, taking breaks and practicing self-care can boost productivity. A refreshed mind is more creative and efficient.

We often find ourselves deeply committed to serving others in church, driven by faith and the desire to follow Jesus’s example of selflessness. But let’s also follow His example of self-care.

Self-Care Practices: 10 Ways to Nourish Your Body and Soul

As we journey through the importance of self-care, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and explore practical ways to nourish spirit, soul, and body.

These ‘Self-Care Practices’ are the heart of any self-care routine. Explore different methods to enhance your self-care journey, from spiritual to physical wellness.

✅ Quiet Time with God: Start your day with prayer, Bible study, or meditation. It sets a positive tone for your day.

✅ Exercise: Engage in a physical activity that you enjoy, whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or dancing around the house.

✅ Healthy Eating: Nourish your body with nutritious meals and snacks. Eating well can improve your overall well-being.

✅ Journaling: Write your thoughts, prayers, or things you’re grateful for. It’s a therapeutic way to process your feelings.

✅ Me-Time: Dedicate time each week to something you love, whether it’s reading a book, taking a bath, or pursuing a hobby.

✅ Social Connections: Spend quality time with friends and family. Building strong relationships is part of self-care.

✅ Set Boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary. Setting boundaries protects your time and energy.

✅ Mental Breaks: Take short breaks during the day to clear your mind. Even a few minutes of deep breathing can make a difference.

✅ Practice Gratitude: Each day, express gratitude for the blessings in your life. It shifts your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant.

✅ Seek Help: Reach out to a counselor or coach if you’re struggling with burnout or emotional issues. Seeking help is a sign of strength.

Remember, my friend, that self-care isn’t selfish. It’s a way to ensure you can continue serving with a joyful heart. 

In the words of the apostle Paul, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit?” (1 Corinthians 6:19). 

So, let’s honor our temples by nourishing our spirit, soul, and bodies through self-care. Embrace self-care as a precious gift you give to yourself, a gift that keeps on giving to all those around you.

We’ve been conditioned to feel a need to justify reasons to be kind to ourselves - we feel guilty indulging in self-care unless we think that we “deserve” it, but that shouldn’t be the case!

Now it’s your turn to embark on a transformative journey towards self-care.

Your well-being matters, and it’s not selfish to prioritize it.

Here’s your challenge..

🌼Choose just one of the 10 self-care practices above and commit to it for one week. Then make it two weeks or add another self-care practice.

Remember, self-care isn’t a onetime event; it’s a lifelong commitment to nourishing your spirit, soul, and body. By accepting this challenge, you’re not only transforming your own life, but also inspiring positive change in the lives of others. 

Start today, and may you experience abundant blessings and renewed strength on your self-care journey. If you do nothing else today, allow yourself the opportunity to do something kind for YOU. 🤗

What will it be? How will you find peace through self-care? 

Post in the comments below the self-care routine you are going to implement this week or one way you will be kind to yourself today. 👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻

If you struggle with guilt around making yourself a priority, book a complimentary coaching session. I’d love to talk with you more about how self-care can help deepen your connection with God, yourself, and others.

Book a coaching call today!

Until we meet again, embracing the journey God set before us!