Yoga & Wellness

Self-Care Practice: Why We Resist it, and Why We Need It

It’s a fact that the better care we take of ourselves, the more we have to give to others. This is because we then feel rested, healthy, nourished and vibrant from the inside out.

Jenny Geyser

16 Aug 2024 • 4 min read

Summer beach days are the ultimate in self-care.

Why do we often put our own well-being last?

Or, when we do put ourselves and our needs first, why do we feel guilty?

One thing I’ve had to work on over the years, is giving myself permission to do exactly what I need to nourish myself physically, mentally and emotionally.

As a yoga and fitness instructor with over two decades in the industry, constantly focused on my students, clients, and their well-being, I’ve had to force myself to slow down many times.

And to be more mindful with my own wellness practices.

It’s often easier to give to others than it is to give to ourselves.

To get enough sleep.

To say no to plans.

To get my own workouts and yoga practice in.

To stop saying yes to every class subbing opportunity that comes my way.

And it takes effort!

But why? Why do we often feel guilty for saying no, and for putting our well-being first?

It’s a fact that the better care we take of ourselves, the more we have to give to others.

This is because we then feel rested, healthy, nourished and vibrant from the inside out.

When we are our best selves, we naturally inspire others and have the energy to give.

When we feel tired, frustrated and depleted, then it is impossible to give to those around us from a heart-centered space.

It’s taken time to know that I am worthy of these things, of spending money on myself and taking time just for me.

Here are some of my self-care practices that have become a necessity over the years, that I hope will inspire you, as well.

Quiet time at home by myself with my dog, Lola (she always brings me peace and joy).
Monthly facials and massages. I've worked my body hard with all the years of teaching and workouts, and now realize how important it is for my long-term wellness to incorporate these holistic practices.
Eating whole, unprocessed, plant-based foods. A true Mediterranean diet and lifestyle of sourcing what is fresh, local and seasonal cultivates radiant health. Choose fiber rich grains, legumes, fruit and vegetables the color of the rainbow, along with healthy fats like olive oil, olives, avocado and nuts. What you put in your body affects how you feel. Feed yourself well. And yes, I live in Italy… I also fully enjoy pizza, pasta, gelato, cornetti (Italian croissants) and all the delicious foods here. When you eat with gratitude and love, it also nourishes you! Food is a joy in life! Take the stress out of it! Choose quality foods and enjoy them without guilt! For more on eating for pleasure click here. I also offer 1:1 nutrition and wellness sessions if you'd like to focus on this more deeply.
Getting enough sleep. I used to teach 6am classes multiple times each week, and was often exhausted. I’ve learned to only commit to what allows me to get sufficient sleep each night, as well as my nightly ritual to wind down to promote deep rest.
My own workouts and yoga practice. As an instructor I NEED to do these daily. In the past, when I would teach SO much each week that I wouldn’t have time for my own designated workout or yoga, I would feel resentful. I would even feel jealous of my students having the time to exercise when I didn’t! It felt crazy and I was not proud of this, but it’s true. Even though I was getting movement in for my physical body, I wasn’t getting the mental or emotional benefits from having my own time to commit to these things. It has to be a priority.
Time in nature and in sunshine! I’m writing this from a day bed surrounded by greenery on the Mediterranean coast an hour outside of Rome. Rome is the most incredible city in the world (my unbiased opinion of course :) However, like any big city, it can get overwhelming. Nature is a reset. Fresh sea or mountain air, or even a beautiful park, can be a complete reboot for the nervous system, and the soul.
This leads into my next self-care requirement… travel. It can be a day trip, a weekend, or however long you have to get away and experience a change of scenery. Exploring new places gets you out of your comfort zone, your daily routine and often sparks something in us to move forward. When we’re stagnant in our habits, doing the same things everyday, our vibration can start to lower, which can lead to boredom and frustration. Travel changes it up and ignites our spirit to make changes, see something from a fresh point of view, and to take time for ourselves in a place that offers adventure, relaxation or both! Yoga retreats are incredible ways to combine all of this in one! Perhaps come to Puglia in Southern Italy with me next summer? Click here for all the info.