Check out this new series from Kailin showcasing the importance of self-care and the many ways games can contribute to self-care. Starting off with what self care is.
Gaming and Self-Care: The What
Kailin
What is self-care?
You may be wondering why this is a question you are seeing on a website for a friendly local game store (FLGS). So maybe I should answer that question first.
Why are we talking about self care? Because I am passionate about self-care and I firmly believe that mental health is important. Also, because this store that I own with my husband is a big part of my stress, yes, but also of my self care. There are a lot of ways for games and hobbies to be a strong part of self care. But to get into that more fully, we first need to go back to… What is self care?
So... What is self-care?
According to the NIH “Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health. When it comes to your mental health, self-care can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy. Even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact.
Aspects of self-care
Did you know? According to Stoewen, DL there are 8 aspects to self care: physical, intellectual, emotional, social, spiritual, vocational, financial, and environmental and over the next several weeks we will take a look at all of them.
So why are we talking about self care at your FLGS?
That is really a pretty simple answer. I believe strongly that self care contributes to a better and longer life. More than that though, I believe in the community that we are building at and around the store. I believe that the community we are building is, in and of itself, a great source of self-care, but also of friendships and memories. If I can share any thoughts that help grow this community, then this entire endeavor is worth it. Check back with us next week to see why I care so much about self care!