By and large we are a society of helping others. However, taking care of yourself is equally important if not more. Why you ask? Well, if you are not healthy, then how can you help others? The simple answer is you cannot.

The definition of healthy has the potential to be debated, however, truly it should not be up for debate. Breathing and walking around on two feet does not necessarily make someone healthy. People should strive for health both physically and mentally. We have numerous silent killers of our health that too often are ignored. Things like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stress, anxiety, and more. In the moment though, none of these in isolation seem all that bad. Plus, popping some prescription medication will make all right? WRONG 

All of these conditions and more put a great deal of strain on the body and will at some point take its toll. Eventually, this “healthy” person will become unwell and struggle with daily activities. So why then are they ignored? Because it takes more time to care of our body then it does to help someone with their problem. Plus, we all have this innate need to be helpful. Helping others tends to do something positive for our psyche.

But the point of this story is why it is important to take care of yourself (first) sometimes. And the reason simply is that if you are not healthy then you cannot help someone else. This might be a spouse, kids/grandkids or older parents/relatives. If you truly feel the need to help others, self-care is vital.

This self-care may include diet, exercise, meditation, or just time to relax in whatever way you prefer.  A by whatever means necessary so that your body is healthy approach is needed. If people depend upon you then by not taking care of yourself, you may actually fail those depending on you. And that is not something that many want.

The bottom line is taking care of yourself will help you to help more people. Why is this even a thing then? Because people are stubborn and don’t do what is best for their health. But not anymore. If there is one thing I hope people have learned, it is the importance of taking care of yourself. So, continue to help those around you, those in need by making sure to care for yourself first.