Daily writing prompt

How do you practice self-care?

View all responses

Hello dear friends,
I hope this blog finds you in a cheerful mood.

Today’s writing prompt caught my attention instantly—“How do you practice self-care?”—a question that may appear simple on the surface, yet holds deep significance in our lives, especially in today’s fast-paced, hyperconnected world.

Self-care, to me, is not an occasional luxury; it’s a daily necessity. It is the gentle art of listening to one’s own heart, recognizing your limits, and nurturing your well-being—physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.

Let me take you through a personal journey of how I practice self-care. Perhaps, within these lines, you may find something that resonates with your own path.

1. Morning Rituals: The Foundation of Peace

My day begins not with the buzz of a phone or the chaos of checking notifications, but with silence and serenity.

I rise early—often before the sun peeks over the horizon—to embrace the stillness of dawn. A cup of warm green tea, a few gentle stretches, and a moment of heartfelt gratitude set the tone for the day ahead.

I light a diya, sit quietly near my small home temple, and offer thanks to the Goddess for blessing me with another day to live, to love, and to create.

Then, I take a few deep, mindful breaths. This simple ritual anchors me.

It’s my way of whispering to the universe,
“I am here. I am grateful. I am ready.”

2. The Nourishment of the Body

Self-care starts with respecting the body. I have realized that what we feed ourselves, both in food and thoughts, becomes who we are.

I choose home-cooked meals made with love. Garlic, turmeric, fresh vegetables, and traditional Indian herbs are my allies. I keep my portions balanced and my meals mindful. I chew slowly, often lost in childhood memories of my mother’s kitchen.

Walking is another part of my daily self-care. Whether it’s a walk in the park or a casual stroll around my neighborhood,

it’s my time to connect with nature, breathe deeply, and watch the birds or flowers bloom. I feel alive.

3. The Magic of Creative Expression

For me, creativity is healing. Painting, writing poetry, or working on my blog, Retired Kalam, is not just a hobby—it’s medicine for the soul.

It allows me to express unspoken emotions, process life’s ups and downs, and rediscover joy in small things.

There are days when words don’t flow or the brush hesitates, but I show up anyway. Showing up for oneself is the purest form of self-care.

We often keep our promises to others, but how often do we keep them for ourselves?

4. Digital Detox and the Value of Time

In this hyper-digital age, self-care also means stepping away from screens. I make it a point to take breaks from social media and spend time offline. Evenings are mostly for reading, music, or heartfelt conversations with loved ones.

I remind myself often: Time is a non-renewable resource. How we spend it reflects how much we value ourselves.

5. Emotional Self-Care: Talking Kindly to Myself

One of the most powerful forms of self-care I’ve learned is self-compassion. There was a time in my life when I was my own harshest critic. But now, I speak to myself with kindness and encouragement.

If I make a mistake, I learn and let go. If I feel overwhelmed, I take a break and breathe. Emotional self-care, for me, is also about forgiving myself for the things I didn’t know better in the past.

6. Spiritual Connection: Anchoring the Soul

Self-care is incomplete without tending to the spirit. I find comfort in prayer, meditation, and reading spiritual texts like the Bhagavad Gita or the poetry of Kabir.

Even a walk to the nearby temple or watching the moon rise in silence connects me to something greater than myself. In those moments, I feel held, even if the world around me feels chaotic.

7. Laughing Often and Loving Freely

Last but not least, I believe joy is a serious part of self-care. Dancing with my partner to an old Hindi song, sharing laughter with my granddaughter, or enjoying chai with friends—these are sacred moments.

Self-care is not selfish. It is the most generous gift we give to the people around us. A nourished, calm, joyful person radiates peace and love wherever they go.

final submission

So, how do I practice self-care? I do it daily. With intention. With love. And with the understanding that a well-cared-for “self” is more capable of caring for others.

Dear reader, I hope you take a moment today to pause, breathe, and ask yourself, “What does my heart need?” You deserve that kindness—from yourself most of all.

Until next time,
Take care of you.
— Vijay Verma
http://www.retiredkalam.com

Categories: infotainment

Tags: #Life, #mental health, #mindfulness, #Self Care, dailyprompt, dailyprompt-1978, featured