Self-care Tips from (Wo)man’s Best Friend: How my rescue dog rescued my self-care practice
As I write this post, my best friend is snuggled up next to me on the couch. We just finished playing a thrilling game of tug-of-war with one of the new toys from his Barkbox and running around the house to his favorite song — Despacito, the Bieber remix.
I found Calix, formerly known as Jake, about this time two years ago on a local shelter’s Instagram. It was love at first sight. The bowtie really tugged at my heartstrings. Calix has been every bit of the “responsibility” people warned me he would be (and then some!). Yes, mom, you were right. And, I am really earning my millennial title with the amount I spoil my furbaby. I have honestly never loved something like I love Calix, and if you follow me on social media, that probably goes without saying :)
I often hear: You don’t rescue a dog. It rescues you. And, well — it’s true.
When I first adopted Calix, my self-care was a mess. I was struggling to succeed in my business. Working constantly. Staying up all hours of the night. Neglecting my health. I had totally let go of my spiritual practice. I was not taking time for myself. Let’s just leave it at: I was struggling mentally, physically, and emotionally… I could go on, but you get the picture. It was not great.
Dogs ARE a lot of responsibility. And, that’s exactly what saved me. I love Calix. I love external responsibilities! (It’s that straight-A perfectionist in me, for sure). And, Calix needs food, water, regular exercise, playtime, and lots of snuggles. He forces me to operate on a schedule and holds me accountable to some pretty basic needs that as an entrepreneur/business owner it is easier to neglect!
On the days when I am feeling exhausted or my anxiety is hitting me hard, or I’m feeling depressed and lost … I still have to wake up and get out of bed to feed him. I have to step outside and walk him. I choose to play with him because who can resist that face?? And, I am blessed to snuggle with him because we both secretly crave oodles of affection. Calix has single-handedly reset my self-care.
BRB. TIME FOR A QUICK WALK. (APPARENTLY, I’VE BEEN SITTING TOO LONG WRITING THIS..)
Phew. It is HOT in NOLA. Even at 6:30 pm. But, I digress: Let’s get right to it. My and
Calix’s top three self-care tips:
1. Step into the light (literally — go for a walk, or ten!).
In my case, it’s at least 6 a day, but even one would be great! Especially for those of us who work from home on our computers, it is really easy to go a day (or days!) without leaving the house. I am a total introvert and pre-Calix was definitely guilty of that. With the help of my little partner, I have realized how AMAZING and revitalizing it feels to walk around town. Walking is a super brain break and a great way to integrate some self-care into your day.
2. Make time to play throughout your day.
Calix loves to play. And, I love that he will bring me his toys, nudge me with his nose, or straight-up howl/growl (grhowl?!) to get my attention for a break. We goof around and that childlike play, joy, laughter, pure fun and silliness has really helped me to reset and also realize that there are very few stressors a few minutes of pure fun cannot take the edge off of.
3. Eat. Drink. And, be patient.
Calix needs regularly scheduled meals. He needs water when it is hot. And, as a good dog mom, I provide these things. And, honestly, when I provide them to him… I remember to provide them for myself. Crazy how easy it is to forget yourself, right?? And, patience. Lord. If I could be as patient with myself as I am with Calix’s anxiety and health issues … well, I imagine I’d be much happier. So #goals.
I am not saying you HAVE to have a dog to do these things. You can do all these things for yourself without a dog (obviously), but there are also plenty of little loves looking for homes so…
