You can't pour from an empty cup; Self-care is a necessity

I used to see self-care as a luxury—something for calm moments. Now I know it’s a lifeline, the anchor that keeps me grounded when the world feels chaotic.

For me, self-care isn’t about bubble baths or elaborate rituals—it’s about finding moments of stillness. Sometimes, that’s stepping outside for a walk in nature, even if it’s just for 10 minutes. The fresh air, the quiet, the simple act of grounding myself in the present moment helps more than I ever expected.

Other times, it’s taking 5 minutes to meditate. I’m not trying to “clear my mind” perfectly, but simply allowing myself to pause, breathe, and check in with what I need. It’s amazing how powerful that small act of presence can be.

I used to feel guilty for needing these breaks, like I wasn’t doing enough. But now I know—these little moments of self-care aren’t indulgences. They’re essential. They’re how I keep going, how I can show up for the people and things I love.

So if you’re running on empty, it’s okay to slow down. Step outside, close your eyes for a minute, or just breathe. You don’t have to have it all together, and you don’t have to keep pushing yourself into exhaustion. Taking care of yourself is doing something—maybe the most important thing you can do.