Finding Healing in Intentional Living: The Journey Toward Self-Care
Not long ago, I had a conversation with a dear one about something that truly matters to me: travelling. I shared how much travelling means to me, how it feels therapeutic, and how I’ve come to see it as part of my self-care.
The person I was conversing with paused and gently pointed out the distinction between self-care and leisure. They explained that while travel could bring me joy and restoration, it might lean more toward leisure than self-care, especially because, as a wife, a busy mom and a helper to many, the effort and planning involved in travel could sometimes add its own layer of stress.
That reflection stayed with me. Because, yes, self-care sometimes takes effort. It requires intention. And while we often think self-care must be effortless and relaxing, sometimes it’s the very effort we put into caring for ourselves, the decision to carve out time, to step away, to breathe new air, that makes it meaningful.
Recently, I finally made a long-awaited trip to a place I had always dreamed of visiting. Even though the journey was busy and full, the experience was renewing. Being in a new environment, surrounded by nature, new cultures, and new people, sparked something fresh within me: a new perspective about life, healing, and mental health.
I realized that self-care doesn’t always look like quiet moments or a day off. Sometimes, it’s the intentional step you take to place yourself in a space that nurtures your mind and soul even if it takes effort to get there.
So, here’s the charge to you: What effort are you willing to make to get to that point — the place where healing begins?
Are you carrying a lot right now? Are you working through trauma, identity struggles, low self-esteem, boundary issues, work stress, or relationship challenges? Are you navigating acculturation stress or simply feeling disconnected from yourself?
Making the effort to seek support might feel like one more thing to do, but it could be the very step that leads you to the life you’ve always longed for.
At Parker Psychotherapy, we believe that every effort you make toward your mental well-being matters. Coming to therapy doesn’t mean seeking perfection; it means choosing progress, one step at a time. Healing doesn’t happen overnight, but every session, every reflection, and every act of courage brings you closer to peace, clarity, and growth.
If you’ve been thinking about therapy, let this be your gentle reminder:
You don’t have to walk this journey alone.
Join us at Parker Psychotherapy, and let’s walk with you through your challenges, your growth, and your rediscovery of self. Because just a glimpse of therapy can make a world of difference.
Goodness Anthony, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
