My writing coach once mentioned that several of her clients had become ill or experienced a breakdown in the process of writing their memoirs. I’d read enough memoirs to know that writing one might be emotionally taxing. But an illness or emotional collapse? No, thank you. I’d been practicing self-care for years—exercising and eating well. Now I realized that if I was going to survive writing my book, I needed to give special attention to my self-care.
Ten Self-Care Tips
Here are ten things I do to nurture my spirit and care for my body:
- Quiet time – I begin almost every day by sitting in my favorite chair with a fresh cup of coffee. I read a devotion and
offer my day to God (including my writing). As I pray, I’m able to release my to-do list and focus on what’s most important—my faith, family, others. This quiet time stills my heart and prepares me for whatever lies ahead. - Exercise – Movement enhances creativity. I love Pilates and am blessed to have an amazing place to work out. I book my classes in advance so I’m not tempted to blow them off when I’m busy. It’s important to keep your “butt in the chair” as Anne Lamott and others remind us. But it’s also important to get up and exercise from time to time.
- Massage – When I write for long periods of time, it takes a toll on my body. As I began working on my memoir and delving into some pretty painful memories, I noticed the tension mounting. That’s when I decided to add massage into my self-care routine. I schedule appointments right after deadlines to reward my hard work.
- Essential oils – I’d been hearing about the benefits of essential oils for years. Then, last fall, I had a cancer scare (I’m a Stage I breast cancer survivor) and decided to take a closer look. I tried a few DoTERRA Essential Oils and immediately saw a difference—in my moods, quality of sleep, stress level, and focus. Now I diffuse oils at my desk and apply them as needed throughout the day. My favorite blends are Balance, Motivate, and InTune for focus.
- Nature – Nature is a great de-stressor. My rescue terrier, Fiona, needs frequent walks these days and I am happy to oblige. I enjoy taking a break from my writing to stroll down the path that winds along the lake behind our house. It’s healing to get away from my computer, breath in the fresh air, and feel the sun on my face. My walks often provide
inspiration and I return to my desk refreshed. - Meditation – Writing a memoir can be emotionally draining. And deadlines can add to the stress. So last fall, I downloaded the Calm app on my phone and began to practice meditation. It’s taken me awhile, but I’ve now made it a daily habit. I’m more present and peaceful, and my concentration has improved.
- Healthy eating – Food is fuel for a writer’s body. My husband (who is also a writer) and I have recently cut back on wine and sugar and we’ve started eating local organic produce. We have more energy and we’re fueling our bodies for the work before us.
- Reading – Poet Jane Kenyon said, “Read good books, have good sentences in your ears.” If you’re writing, you need
to be reading. That’s why I’ve immersed myself in memoirs while I’m writing one. Reading others’ stories inspires me to be a better writer. Plus, reading is good for your health. It decreases stress, improves memory and concentration, and helps you sleep better. - Sleep – Early morning is my most productive time to write. So if I’m going to get up at 4 or 5 am and get in some quality writing time, I have to be rested. That’s why I head to bed early each night. It’s good for my body and good for my craft.
- Time with loved ones – I do a lot of things to care for the writer in me, but nothing tops this one. Having coffee with my husband every morning and sharing a glass of wine in the evening are the highlights of my day. And even though my children are grown and I don’t see them as often as I used to, they are still my priority. Being with them, hearing about their latest adventures, and laughing together feeds my soul. Nothing makes me happier and ready to sit down at my desk and begin again.
What do you do to practice self-care and nurture your writing life? Please share your own tips, below.
Meditation, walking for exercise are 2 things which help me in every way. I also diffuse doTERRA – Bergamot – supports self acceptance and self love – Oregeno – removes blocks and clears negativity – Clary Sage – oil of clarity and vision – Spearmint- access my inner light and convey that light to the world with clarity and confidence.
I’ve also been able to read and enjoy books – which is something I haven’t been able to do for years – which is a sign that some of the trauma is settling and I’m able to sit and relax and concentrate.
I love the app “Be Focused” which sets a timer for 30 mins and then a 5 min break. It’s a way to force me to start.
And right now I’m trying Google Calendar – creating a schedule and then adding what I actually do – a sort of self accountability.
What I need to do most is to sit my “butt in the chair”.
Thank you for sharing, Beth Ann! I love all the ways you’ve found to take care of yourself. And you’re a fellow DoTERRA user! I diffuse Bergamot and Clary Sage; I’ll be sure to try Spearmint and Oregano. Reading, focus, accountability—it sounds like you’re doing a great job. Take care. x
These self-care tips are wonderful. Thank you for reminding me that I am worth the effort. I’ve just returned from a week on the Outer Banks. The beautiful ocean certainly satisfies #5.
Thanks, Susan! Yes, you are definitely worth it. A week at the Outer Banks = heaven. Sounds like you had a wonderful time!
Just left a nice long comment and poof! It’s gone. Short version? Yes yes and yes! I use Young Living oils and know the boost you speak of. All these self-care tips are great. For me, my husband and are have become night owls in retirement and sleep in a bit but this can work equally well as long as your active hours are equal parts productive and restorative (and especially if you’re on the same page, if you live with a partner). Great post!
Thanks, Casey! My husband and I are the complete opposite! We’re both writers and morning people so we go to bed early and wake up early (5ish). But that works for us! As for essential oils, I’m looking forward to diffusing some fall blends before long. Take care.