Self-care and Renewal: Their Meaning and Relationship - Page 1 of 3

WHAT DO THE TERMS SELF-CARE & RENEWAL ACTUALLY MEAN?

Self-renewal means staying at our best -- body, mind, and spirit -- throughout life's long years, day by day.
--Frederic Hudson

 

We feel Frederic Hudson's definition is a good description of self-care. Self-care represents the actions we take -- to support and enhance the self-renewal process on a day-to-day basis. The actions we choose to take are based on our experience, beliefs, attitudes, values, and opportunities available to us.

Ultimately, self-care leads to renewal. But it is a process. And it takes you going on a journey towards yourself. We will be your guide... but you will be making the discoveries.

Renewal (according to the New World Dictionary) is "making new again by replacing what is old, worn, exhausted; to make fresh and strong again."

Remember:

• Renewal is a natural cycle in the process of growth.

   

• Renewal is a three-part cycle. You begin by ending and letting go of what is no longer useful or needed. Second, a period of time in a neutral or "cocoon" space is required. And last, a new beginning.

   

• Renewal allows you a fresh start with revitalization and internal direction.

   

• Renewal can only happen in a nurturing environment. The renewal we seek can only come from a climate that welcomes and encourages it. Such an environment is nurtured when we learn how to focus on our own personal and professional self-care.

As educators we have experienced the joy of renewal when we see a student master a challenging concept, hear children speak confidently about their progress, and share the thrill of accomplishment with a determined child.

Yet we also experience the disappointment that comes when our students' expectations are not met, a student drops out of school, or a school bond election is defeated.

These down times can, however, mark the beginning of a new cycle of renewal. Renewal can often begin when circumstances seem the darkest.