by Dr. Christine Li
I’m excited to share some insights from my recent podcast episode on nontraditional self-care. Self-care often brings to mind practices like massages, candle-lit baths, or a quiet weekend getaway. And while those are all valuable, I’ve been inspired to dive into a deeper approach—one that helps us nurture trust, safety, and confidence from within.
This nontraditional self-care approach encourages us to go beyond the typical physical rituals. Instead, it’s about cultivating the practices that fuel our inner stability and strength, regardless of what’s happening around us. Here are eight powerful ways I believe we can achieve this kind of self-care:
- Trust Yourself Completely
Self-care begins with the foundation of self-trust. When we act in alignment with our values and follow through on what we say, we create a beautiful, steady trust in ourselves. It doesn’t matter how unpredictable the world may be; as long as you can trust yourself, you’re equipped to handle it. - Cultivate a Deep Sense of Safety
Safety is everything. When we don’t feel secure—whether in our environment, our bodies, or our thoughts—it becomes challenging to focus on anything else. I encourage you to create a mental “safety net” for yourself, grounding yourself in your own ability to keep things moving forward, whatever the circumstance. - Value Yourself Enough to Invest in Your Growth
Often, we’re so busy caring for others that we overlook our own needs. True self-care means valuing ourselves enough to take time for our growth and well-being. When we do, we’re better equipped to show up fully for others without losing ourselves along the way. - Shift Your Perspective on Challenges
Instead of viewing challenges as burdens, I encourage you to see them as opportunities for growth and resilience. Embracing this mindset allows us to protect our energy, stay strong, and avoid the drain that comes from viewing every obstacle as a setback. - Design Your Life Intentionally
I believe each of us has the power to design our lives with intention. Envision what you want, create your unique path, and dare to be the architect of your own experience. Like Walt Disney creating a world from pure imagination, we too can shape the lives we want to lead. - Express Your Unique Gifts
Each of us has something uniquely valuable to offer the world. For me, it’s my approach to procrastination and productivity, which I love sharing with you all. Think about what’s special about you—and find a way to express that gift, even if it’s just in a small way each day. - Reclaim Energy Lost to Comparison
Comparing ourselves to others can be such a drain. Instead, reclaim that energy for yourself. Focus on building your own success and well-being rather than measuring yourself against others. That reclaimed energy can go towards creating the life you envision. - Prioritize Yourself as Both the Goal and the Journey
This is about consistently checking in with yourself, being present in your growth, and knowing that you are always evolving. Prioritizing yourself as both the main character and the goal of your journey allows you to enjoy the present and look forward to who you are becoming each day.
I hope these principles encourage you to rethink self-care as something much deeper than what we do on the outside. By nurturing trust, safety, and self-worth from within, we naturally radiate well-being that others can see and feel.
If you’d like to try these ideas out for yourself, I’ve created a free worksheet to help guide you through each principle. You can download it here. I’d love to hear how these practices work for you—send me a message on Instagram or share any thoughts you have!
