Selfcare is used so often that it doesn't have a lot of meaning without context. Not only do we all have to define what we need individually but what even qualifies as selfcare needs seems to have huge variation.

Maslow's hierarchy of needs helps illustrate my thoughts on selfcare. I really like this one because it also aligns well with the charkas. I have seen some argue that those bottom levels are the ones that should be focused on when assuring we are getting our selfcare. I have seen others insist that the lower layers are a precursor to selfcare and though they are essential, it's only when we reach the the upper levels that we are truly getting selfcare. I have also seen people focus exclusively on the upper sections to the neglect of the lower sections. Personally, I feel that it is all selfcare, and that we have to continually reach, support, and fine tune those lower levels as part of our best selfcare practices. Examining what those things look like for us, as our most basic needs change throughout our life, as does everything else.

A new mantra I have adopted, and speak into my water every morning, and work into my anointing prayers is "everything I do is in alignment with myself care" So the question for me becomes not what in my life is selfcare, or how do I find time for it, but what is not selfcare. What am I doing that is out of alignment? Even as I type this I am finding myself asking at what point does this fall out of alignment for myself care. In many ways writing a newsletter has aspects in all but the bottom layer. Are my physiological needs being met before or while I type? Sometimes they aren't and I get irritated and angry and the rest of the pyramid begins to fall. That energy is then reflected in what I put out there. No matter how much I am trying to cultivate some of those upper layers with this writing if it is tainted by my energetic imbalance when you read it that energy will be attached even if it is at a subtle level. There is no right or wrong in understanding selfcare, and sometimes a discussion can end up debating semantics rather figuring out how to meet our needs. So as with most things I don't argue with a person's own perception, because ultimately our selfcare is about our self, I do however invite you to try this on, and look at things, people, perceived responsibilities through the lens of what is in alignment with your selfcare and try to release what isn't.