Celebrating Self-Care September!

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Self-Care and What It Really Means

It only took one deep conversation with a good friend to change how I thought about self-care. For a long time, like many of us, I believed it meant spa days, mani-pedis, and letting someone else pamper me. Don’t get me wrong—those things are beautiful forms of care, but my girlfriend made me realize self-care goes far deeper.

Self-care is about how you take care of yourself—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It’s the little decisions, the daily rituals, the people you surround yourself with, and the energy you allow into your space. It’s not just about what you do—it’s about how and why you do it.

Here at The Risers Hub, I believe in moving forward with purpose and intention. It’s not always perfect, but it’s a start to something far greater than doing something, just to be doing it.

Let’s check out 5 ways we can redefine self-care and how you can create a life full of richness, community, love, kindness, and joy:

1. Nourishing Yourself Through Food

Self-care is more than eating to survive. It’s about the way you cook, arrange your plate, and enjoy your meals—even if you’re dining alone. The act of feeding yourself with intention sends a powerful message: I am worth the effort.

Ask yourself: How can I make my meals an act of love for myself rather than just a routine?

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2. Caring for Your Body Beyond Appearance

Self-care isn’t only about how you look—it’s about how you feel. Taking time to nourish your skin, massage in oils that make you smile, or stretch your body in ways that release tension isn’t vanity—it’s an act of deep respect for the vessel that carries you.

Ask yourself: What practices make me feel at home in my own body?

3. Protecting Your Energy Through Boundaries

Who you spend time with and how you engage with others impacts your well-being. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, not drain you. Creating boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s a form of self-preservation.

Ask yourself: Who in my life makes me feel lighter, and who makes me feel heavy? How can I honor that awareness?

Photo by Asya Cusima, Pexels.com

4. Choosing Joy in Daily Rituals

Self-care can be as simple as creating moments of joy in your everyday life—lighting a candle before bed, journaling your thoughts, or listening to music that stirs your soul. These rituals remind you that joy doesn’t have to be earned—it’s available daily.

Ask yourself: What small ritual can I commit to that makes me feel grounded and happy?

5. Practicing Self-Kindness in Thought

Often, the voice we hear the most is the one in our own head. Self-care means speaking to yourself with gentleness, celebrating your wins, and forgiving your mistakes. Imagine how your life would change if you treated yourself like your best friend.

Ask yourself: What words of kindness can I speak to myself today?

Here are some #keeprising thoughts!

Self-care isn’t just about treating yourself every now and then—it’s about creating a way of life where love, kindness, and joy flow through your daily choices. If you seek it, it will come, and it will shower you with hope, encouragement, and personal power you never thought you had.

Nicol

Nicol: Creative Manager and Master Athlete Thriving in the DMV Area

Meet Nicol Hodges, a versatile professional, serves as a creative manager and excels as a master athlete who calls the DMV area her new home. Her remarkable journey in sports commenced in St. Charles, MO, where she achieved an impressive three-year streak as a top-ranked runner in the 400 meter dash at the state and national level. Continuing her athletic prowess at the University of Missouri, Columbia, Nicol clinched an astounding eight Big 12 Track and Field titles, including a championship victory.

In addition to her athletic abilities, Nicol possesses a rich creative background. Her journey into the world of creative management has been a testament to her passion and dedication, which mirror her athletic achievements. Nicol’s creative endeavors have encompassed innovative projects and campaigns, showcasing her unique blend of talent and expertise for companies like Mattel - Barbie, and Dr. Seuss Enterprises - The Grinch.

Continuing her academic pursuits at the University of Missouri, Columbia, Nicol further solidified her legacy by claiming an astonishing eight Big 12 Track and Field titles, alongside an illustrious championship victory. Her achievements in both the athletic and creative realms exemplify her unwavering commitment to excellence.

Today, Nicol continues to channel her deep-seated love for running, competing in a diverse array of local and national running events. Her dynamic and multifaceted journey as a creative manager and master athlete/runner serves as an inspiring testament to her unrelenting passion and drive.

http://www.nicolhodges.com
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