What it means to take care of yourself is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. Instead to take care of yourself has a somewhat different meaning for each of us. Yes, there are general categories of good care including adequate sleep, good nutrition, exercise, mental stimulation, positive relationships and meaningful endeavor, but for each of us, the details of those categories will look somewhat different.
This concept occurred to me when I quickly wanted to judge someone else's expression of what they need to take care of themselves. I was projecting what I needed rather than simply listening and accepting their own definition of what they needed--afterall that individuals knows what they needs, and why should I project my needs on them. We can't judge each other's definitions and needs when it comes to good care, but instead we need to listen to one another and support each other's individual needs.
Also, we have to think deeply about what it is that defines good care in our lives--we need to think carefully about the environments, activities, foods and schedules that give us our best energy and help us to feel as good as possible.
Recently, on two occassions, I completely lost all energy--I was absolutely depleted. Even though I thought I created best-care scenarios, I missed some significant ingredients. That made me more aware about what "best care" means for me, and as I listen to those around me, I'm beginning to understand what "best care" means for them too.
When we take care of ourselves using a positive, personalized formula of right scheduling and good activity, people and places, we are our best selves, and when we are our best selves, we have more to give to others too. Onward.