I was recently introduced to the idea of relational self-care, and I quite like it. I've done a lot of work to develop and sustain meaningful, healthy relationships since I've been in recovery, but I hadn't ever really thought of relationships as a self-care domain.
It works, though. It suggests a certain element of intention in how we approach relationships and work to enhance interpersonal connections, but it also suggests a lovely way of thinking about how relationships nurture us (self-care).
Practicing relational self-care includes prioritizing relationships with our spouses, partners, children, and other important family members and friends. It's about seeking and accepting emotional support, and, in reciprocity, providing practical and emotional support to others.
I think it also entails letting go of unhealthy relationships (as hard as that can be) and maybe putting effort into establishing, sustaining, or deepening important friendships with like-hearted and like-minded people. Caring for our relationships and caring about how we are in relationships is good self-care.
How would you rate your ability to practice relational self-care these days? Relationships can nurture and sustain us if we practice relational self-care.