Article by Morgan Healey, LPC

Over the past few years, wellness has become increasingly prominent in our cultural conversation. I often have clients ask questions like "what does 'self-care' even mean?" Others feel they could practice self-care if only they could afford that pricey gym membership, monthly massages or facials, or expensive products.

In a world of red-light therapy, luxury bath bombs, and fitness influencers, it's no surprise that a concept meant to help people has, perhaps inadvertently, created more stress by turning wellness into another commodity we can purchase.

My definition of wellness is anything that supports the growth, development, and evolution of one's relationship with oneself. During a moment in time when advertisements and influencers send us messages insinuating that if we're not constantly growing, we're failing at self-care—it is rebellious, strong, and in my opinion correct, to instead acknowledge that true wellness is about accepting ourselves where we are. To create safety in our bodies and minds. To allow ourselves space to simply exist as we are—whole, lovable, and enough—without needing to change or improve.

As any of my clients would attest, I sound like a broken record when it comes to providing psychoeducation and highlighting opportunities for self-compassion. This is because I believe so strongly that we cannot create sustainable growth or wellness without it. Self-compassion IS my definition of wellness.

What does self-compassion look like?

Self-compassion means acknowledging how you are feeling in any given moment, day, or chapter. It looks like listening to what you need instead of what you "should" be doing. It means honoring your instincts and your body when it tells you it needs rest, movement, nutrients, sleep, or comfort.

So, whether you are stuck in bed feeling depressed, overfunctioning at work, or anywhere in between—my message is the same: take a moment to slow down, breathe, tune in, and accept what you hear from yourself without judgment. Remind yourself that you make sense (even if you don't know why yet) and take a small step to do something that feels supportive. If you practice this little by little, step by step, I hope you find that your relationship to yourself—the most important relationship you have—becomes stronger.

by Morgan Healey, LPC

Morgan Healey, LPC is a therapist in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Morgan offers services in person at our Ardmore location and online through our HIPAA compliant platform. She supports adult individuals, and couples as they navigate relationship issues & attachment, anxiety, depression, trauma and self-esteem. To schedule an appointment click here.

A BETTER LIFE THERAPY

A Better Life Therapy was founded in 2013 with a passion for providing warm, compassionate services to individuals and families in Pennsylvania. Our team specializes in relationship health as well as individual mental health. Our team has expertise in areas like anxiety, grief, depression, pregnancy related issues, sexual issues, substance use and trauma.