🪷 Self-care is not just essential, but OK

What I'm trying to learn

For one who learned to self-deny,
it’s not enough to say
that self-care is essential—
say, too, that it’s okay.

💗

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(Note: this is a clearer and more condensed version of the poem I posted recently called “Nervous System Mending,” which I wrote when I was quite tired. Clarity and brevity require mental energy!)

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This photo demonstrates several elements of self-care for me:

1. Reading (the latest book in my all-time favorite series!!!!)

2. Resting in my bed

3. Cuddling with a cat (Cinna)

4. Wearing my noise-cancelling headphones

5. Displaying a writing award on my wall (because writing = self-care, for me)

I am learning!

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