(Posted 2021 November)
Self-care is about taking steps to feel healthy and comfortable. Whether an incident just happened or took place decades ago, self-care can help you cope with the short- and long-term effects of a trauma like sexual assault.
Physical self-care.
After a trauma, it’s critical to stay healthy and strong. You may be healing from injuries or feeling exhausted emotionally. Good physical health can support you through this time. Think about a time when you felt physically healthy, and ask the following questions:
- How was I sleeping? Did I have a sleep ritual that made me feel more rested?
- What types of food was I eating? What meals made me feel best?
- What types of exercise did I enjoy? Were there any particular activities that made me feel like I had more energy?
- What were my routines? Were there activities I did to start the day off or wind down before bedtime?
Emotional self-care.
The key to emotional self-care is being in tune with yourself. Think about a time when you felt balanced and grounded, and ask the following questions:
- What leisure activities or hobbies did I enjoy? What events did I look forward to most?
- Did I meditate or practice other relaxation activities as part of my regular schedule?
- Where did I go for inspiration?
- Who did I spend time with? Was there someone, or a group of family or friends, that made me feel supported?
- Where did I spend time? Was there a special place, maybe a beach or a friend’s house, where I felt comfortable?
Self-care isn’t always easy to take on by yourself. So don’t hesitate to speak with someone trained to help.
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