Embracing Imperfect Self-Care: Finding Peace in the Messy Moments
Let’s be real—self-care isn’t always bubble baths and quiet mornings. Sometimes, it looks like tissues on the couch, letting the to-do list rest, and simply getting through the day.
I started this month off strong. I finally used a Christmas gift card for a massage, booked an appointment to get my eyebrows done, and felt like I was on top of my self-care game. The massage was SO relaxing, and for a moment, I felt completely recharged. But the next morning, I woke up sore, with my face aching and feeling a bit congested. I didn’t feel sick—just off. I assumed it was a mix of post-massage soreness and maybe a head cold.
After a few days of discomfort, I turned to my trusty friend Google and learned that congestion after a facial massage is a real thing. While it was reassuring to know I wasn’t coming down with anything serious, I didn’t feel the rejuvenation I had hoped for. And then, just as I started to feel better, life threw another curveball—my daughter came home with norovirus.
What followed was a whirlwind of sickness, sleepless nights, and everyone in the house taking turns battling the virus. When we finally emerged on the other side, my little sister went into labor. It was such a blessing to be part of her baby boy’s birth, witnessing her incredible calm and strength. But between the hospital visits, lack of sleep, and the emotional high of welcoming a new life, I was exhausted.
I had planned to celebrate my best friend’s birthday that weekend. We were supposed to dance the night away at a 2010s night—our favorite girls’ night out tradition. But when the day came, my friend called off the party because she was feeling sick, and soon, everyone else admitted they just didn’t have it in them to go out. And you know what? It felt really nice knowing we could all comfortably say when we just couldn’t show up, even for a big celebration.
When Self-Care Isn’t Pretty
We hear so often about “filling our cups” and taking time for ourselves, but what happens when it feels like your cup is empty? When rest feels unproductive, and caring for yourself feels like just another task on the list?
I’m learning that self-care doesn’t have to look perfect. It doesn’t need to be elaborate or Instagram-worthy. Sometimes, it’s simply showing up for ourselves in whatever way we can—taking a quiet moment, allowing ourselves to rest, or choosing not to push so hard.
Small, Gentle Steps Toward Self-Care
If you’re feeling the same way, here are a few gentle self-care practices that have helped me find my way back:
• Embrace Small Wins: Some days, getting out of bed is a win. Celebrate it. Small actions—like taking a deep breath, making a cup of tea, or using a shower steamer—can bring a moment of peace.
• Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to rest. It’s okay to not be productive. Give yourself permission to slow down.
• Create Moments of Calm: Even if life feels chaotic, carving out a small ritual—like lighting a candle or soaking in a warm bath—can make a difference.
• Be Kind to Yourself: I know firsthand how loud negative self-talk can be. That’s why I created Bath Affections with waterproof affirmations—to offer gentle reminders that you deserve love, rest, and kindness, especially from yourself.
A Reminder from Bath Affections
My vision for Bath Affections has always been to encourage relaxation, inspiration, and style. But more than that, I want our products to be little nudges toward self-compassion. When you use a shower steamer, light a candle, or soak in bath salts, I hope it feels like a moment carved out just for you.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone. We’re all just doing our best—and that is more than enough. Let’s take it one small step at a time, together.