The Link Between Our Childhood Caregivers to Our Self Care Practices.
By: Maria Grace Wolk, LMFT
Our first lesson in self-care is from the way we were cared for by our caregivers during our early years. The care and attention we received from them is a blueprint for how we perceive and prioritize our own well-being.
When our caregivers consistently met our physical and emotional needs, provided comfort, and nurtured our overall development, we learned that self-care is essential and deserving of attention. This early experience taught us the importance of self-soothing, self-nourishment, and seeking support when needed.
On the other hand, if our caregivers failed to respond adequately to our basic needs, physically and emotionally, or failed to provide a safe and supportive environment, our understanding of self-care may be distorted or hindered. We might struggle with self-neglect, have difficulty recognizing our own needs, or find it challenging to prioritize our well-being.
Our early caregiving experiences shape our beliefs and behaviors around self-care, impacting how we care for ourselves as adults. Recognizing these influences allows us to reflect on and potentially challenge any negative patterns or limitations we may have inherited. Through self-awareness, self-reflection, and intentional practice, we can develop healthier and more nurturing self-care routines that support our overall well-being and personal growth.
