Self care has become a buzzword of the modern age, but is it actually vanity in disguise? After all, taking time out of your day to practice self care may seem like an indulgence to some, but it can be essential for living a balanced and healthy life. Let’s take a closer look at the difference between self care and vanity
The Difference Between Self Care and Vanity
Vanity has traditionally been defined as excessive pride in one’s appearance or accomplishments. This definition does not necessarily apply to self care. While it may seem like an indulgence or luxury, taking time out of your day for yourself is actually beneficial for both your physical and mental health. From simple activities such as reading a book or going for a walk to more elaborate rituals such as spa days or getting regular massages, there are plenty of different ways that you can practice self care. Doing so allows you to stay connected with yourself and your needs while also reducing stress levels and giving your body the rest it needs
On the other hand, vanity is often focused on external markers rather than internal ones. It can be easy to get caught up in what society deems “beautiful” or “worthy” without taking into account your own personal goals or values. When done in excess, this type of behavior can lead to feelings of insecurity and inadequacy which can be detrimental to overall well-being. That’s why it’s important to remember that beauty standards are constantly changing and that you should focus on feeling good about yourself rather than chasing after someone else's idea of perfection.
Conclusion
Ultimately, self care is about putting yourself first and allowing yourself permission to take time out of your day for activities that make you feel good and relaxed. On the other hand, vanity is rooted in comparison and trying too hard to please others rather than focusing on what makes you feel happy and fulfilled. So while they may appear similar at first glance, there are actually many differences between these two concepts which we should keep in mind when considering how we want to prioritize our time -and our wellbeing!- moving forward. With that being said, if you're looking for ways to practice self-care without feeling guilty about it, try incorporating simple activities into your routine such as exercising regularly, meditating daily, or scheduling regular check-ins with friends or family members -all things that can help ensure you stay connected with yourself while living a balanced life!