Self Care?
The world tells us that self-care is about doing whatever makes us feel good—spa days, shopping, or escaping from responsibilities for a while. While some of these things can refresh us, they often give only temporary relief and can leave us chasing the next quick fix.
But God’s Word points us to a deeper, lasting kind of care. From the very beginning, God modeled rest when He finished creation (Genesis 2:2–3). Jesus Himself regularly withdrew to quiet places to pray (Luke 5:16). True self-care means making space to be renewed in His presence—not just to recharge our bodies but to refresh our souls.
Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. Caring for ourselves isn’t selfish—it’s stewardship. When we eat well, rest, pray, and set boundaries, we aren’t just caring for “self”; we are preparing ourselves to serve God and others with strength.
The danger of worldly self-care is that it can keep us focused on self rather than the Savior. Jesus said in Luke 9:23, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” Biblical self-care calls us not to indulgence, but to alignment—aligning our lives with God’s design so that we can love Him and love others well.
I once heard someone rename self-care to “Jesus care.” I loved that, and I’ve come to view my own practices in the same way. True care of myself is really about letting Jesus care for me, so I can in turn care for others. In my heart, it’s always Jesus care > self-care.
So today, instead of asking, “What can I do to treat myself?” ask, “What can I do to meet with God?” For it is in His presence that our souls find true rest (Psalm 62:1).
In short: Worldly self-care says, “Fill yourself up.” Biblical self-care says, “Be filled by God so you can pour out His love.”
Prayer: “Lord, teach me to rest in You. Help me steward my body, mind, and spirit in ways that honor You. Keep me from chasing temporary relief and draw me into Your lasting peace. Amen.”
Why Biblical Self-Care Matters:
We are commanded to love others as ourselves (Mark 12:30–31). This implies that we must first know how to tend to our own souls in healthy, God-honoring ways.
Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). That means it matters how we treat them—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
We cannot pour from an empty cup. Galatians 6:9 reminds us not to grow weary in doing good. Part of not growing weary is taking intentional time to rest, recharge, and remain rooted in Christ.
Self-care, when rooted in Scripture, is not selfish—it’s stewardship.
My “Self-Care” Practices
Below is a list of 10 “self-care” practices that fill my cup and help me stay grounded. Each one nurtures me in different ways and, in turn, allows me to be a better mom, wife, friend, daughter, and servant of Christ. Some may seem to fall into the “selfish” category, but living with chronic pain that can sometimes be debilitating, I’ve learned that things like massages and stretching aren’t luxuries—they’re what help me get out of bed, function, and pour out more of God’s love to those around me.
Time Studying and Meditating on the Word of God
This is my foundation. Without time in Scripture, everything else loses its meaning. Psalm 1:2–3 says that the one who delights in the law of the Lord “is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season.” When I root myself in God’s Word, I find strength, wisdom, and perspective that I simply cannot find anywhere else.
And when I say “meditating on Scripture,” I don’t mean the emptying of the mind or mystical practices tied to New Age spirituality. Instead, biblical meditation is about filling our minds and hearts with God’s truth—dwelling on His Word until it sinks deep into our souls. Joshua 1:8 explains it this way: “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”
I wrote a previous post about Christians and meditation, and I encourage you to revisit that if you’d like a deeper dive into what this truly means. In short, Christian meditation is about focus, not emptiness—it’s intentionally setting our thoughts on God’s Word and His presence.
There are many ways to do this, and they can fit different seasons of life:
Daily Devotionals – Short readings with scripture, reflection, prayer and journaling that help us start or end our day centered on the Lord.
Lectio Divina – An ancient Christian practice (Latin for “divine reading”) that involves slowly reading a passage of Scripture, reflecting on it, praying it back to God, and resting in His presence. It’s less about study and more about relational encounter.
Deep Diving into Theology – Studying what the church has historically believed about God, His nature, and His works. This helps us love Him with our minds (Matthew 22:37) and gain clarity when the world presents distorted truths.
Exploring Geography & Context – Looking into the original settings, cultures, and places in the Bible (for example, understanding the terrain of Israel or the customs of first-century life) which makes passages come alive in richer ways.
Studying Original Languages – Even a simple word study using tools like Strong’s Concordance can help us grasp the richness of Hebrew or Greek words that may not fully translate into English.
Narrative Reflection – Entering into Bible stories and imagining yourself as one of the characters—asking what they saw, felt, or heard—can help bring the text from black-and-white to living color.
Scripture Memorization – Hiding God’s Word in our hearts (Psalm 119:11) equips us to recall truth in moments of temptation, fear, or discouragement.
However you approach it, the goal is always the same: to encounter God Himself through His Word. Hebrews 4:12 reminds us, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword…”—it speaks into our lives today with the same authority and power it always has.
Studying and meditating on Scripture is not just another task on the self-care list; it is the anchor. Everything else—whether time in nature, music, or even rest—flows out of the strength and perspective I find when I begin with Him.
Listening to Scripture (Podcasts or YouTube)
Faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17). Whether while driving, walking, or winding down at night, having God’s Word read aloud fills my mind with truth.
One of the things I love most about listening to Scripture is how convenient it is—it allows me to absorb God’s Word even while doing everyday tasks. Whether I’m folding laundry, cooking, gardening, driving, or even falling asleep at night, I can have the Word of God spoken into my heart. Even when I’m not consciously analyzing every word, Scripture has a way of seeping deep into my soul, shaping my thoughts and reminding me of truth.
I’ve found a few podcasts and YouTube channels especially refreshing, because they often pair Scripture with peaceful background music that creates a calming atmosphere:
Podcasts:
Holy Ghost Stories with Justin Gerhardt – powerful storytelling that brings the Bible to life. This one I listen to during the day, not at bedtime.
At Night by Amanda Bacon – gentle and soothing, designed to help you wind down with God’s Word. Perfect for bedtime.
Bedtime Bible Stories for Adults with Heather Crespin – scripture-centered storytelling that comforts and settles the heart before sleep.
YouTube:
Soakstream – Healing Scriptures – scripture set to peaceful background music, perfect for quiet moments or even while resting.
DappyTKeys – beautiful piano music with Scripture printed across the screen. (Note: this one is best for times of doing chores around the house, when you can randomly look at the screen; as different scriptures are being posted on the screen every few minutes —so this one is not ideal while driving.)
Listening in this way helps keep my heart and mind aligned with the Lord, even during the busyness of daily life.
Quality Time With My Daughter (seeing her smile)
Children are a blessing from the Lord (Psalm 127:3). Nothing renews me quite like seeing her smile, laughing together, and creating memories. These moments remind me of God’s goodness and the joy of discipleship in my own home.
Spending quality time with my truly daughter fills my cup. There’s something about watching her joy grow, seeing peace on her face, and sharing simple moments together that refreshes me in a way few other things can. It doesn’t have to be a big adventure—sometimes the sweetest self-care is simply being present with her, whether that’s talking, laughing, or just enjoying each other’s company.
Scripture reminds us of the importance of cherishing these moments:
Proverbs 23:24–25 – “The father of a righteous child has great joy; a man who fathers a wise son rejoices in him. May your father and mother rejoice; may she who gave you birth be joyful!”
Proverbs 17:6 – “Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.”
3 John 1:4 – “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”
Being there for her—simply through the act of togetherness—brings me peace and reminds me of God’s heart for us as His children. Just as her smile fills me with joy, I am reminded of Zephaniah 3:17, which tells us that God rejoices over us with singing. My love for her reflects, in a small way, His great love for us.
Snuggling With My Fur Babies
Proverbs 12:10 reminds us that “the righteous care for the needs of their animals.” Our pets are not just companions—they are gifts from God, placed in our lives to bring comfort, joy, and unconditional love.
When I snuggle with my pets, I often feel a therapeutic effect. And science confirms this:
Petting a dog or cat lowers blood pressure and heart rate while reducing stress hormones like cortisol. It also boosts oxytocin, the “bonding hormone” that fosters peace and connection. A 2003 study found that human–animal interaction consistently improves cardiovascular health and stress regulation.
Cats’ purring vibrates between 25–150 Hz, a frequency range linked to tissue healing, pain reduction, and even bone repair. Research from Fauna Communications highlights how these frequencies may promote self-healing in cats and therapeutic effects for humans.
Deep pressure therapy—the calming effect of steady, gentle weight or pressure—is something many pets instinctively provide when they lie across our laps and chests or curl up against us. Studies show that deep pressure stimulation activates the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering anxiety and helping the body return to a state of rest. Temple Grandin’s research on pressure therapy underscores how powerful this effect can be for humans.
In short: God designed our fur babies with built-in ways to comfort us. Their presence is a reminder of His tenderness and care.
Other scriptures reflect this truth as well:
James 1:17 – “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights…” Our pets truly are one of those good and perfect gifts.
Job 12:7–10 – “But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you… In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.”
When we pause to hold them close, listen to a cat’s steady purr, or feel a dog’s heartbeat as they rest on us, we are reminded of the God who created them for our joy and healing. Their love often mirrors His own unconditional love for us.
Slow Time in Nature
Romans 1:20 reminds us that “God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made.” For me, self‑care in nature isn’t about conquering trails or pushing through challenges—it’s about embracing stillness and receiving. It’s more akin to a shin‑rin‑yoku style approach: a graceful, slow stroll, intentional observation, or even lying down quietly to breathe in my surroundings.
This isn’t rooted in ancient ritual or mysticism—but in a practice consciously developed in Japan in the 1980s as a way to help people combat stress, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts amidst rapid urbanization. The Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries coined the term shinrin‑yoku in 1982, encouraging people to mindfully “take in the forest atmosphere” as a form of psychological and physiological rest.
Here’s what modern research confirms about the calming and restorative power of this practice:
Reduces Anxiety & Stress: Shinrin‑yoku consistently lowers anxiety, depression, anger, fatigue, and confusion, while increasing feelings of vigor. It also decreases stress hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and noradrenaline.
Balances the Nervous System: Both dynamic (walking) and static (stillness) forest bathing enhance parasympathetic activity (our “rest and digest” response) and reduce sympathetic stress responses. This physiological pattern is associated with lower blood pressure, reduced heart rate, and improved mood.
Improves Well-being & Sleep: Time in a Japanese garden improved sleep quality and reduced morning grogginess, indicating the power of nature immersion to restore our bodies even more deeply.
Don’t get me wrong, I love challenging hikes and conquering goals—but that’s not usually what my heart or spirit needs when I’m feeling weary. In seasons of rest, I lean into the forest simply being; strolling gently, pausing to notice sunlight dancing on moss, smelling the fresh earth, listening to birds sing, or laying down and soaking it all in.
This slows everything down—my heart, my mind, my breath—so I can actually receive what God is gently offering: presence, stillness, perspective. As Psalm 23:2–3 reminds us: “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.” In those quiet forest moments, I sense His nearness and His design for true rest.
Listening to Music
David played the harp and refreshed King Saul when he was troubled (1 Samuel 16:23). Music is one of God’s gifts—it can calm an anxious heart, lift us into worship, or simply help us pause and breathe when life feels overwhelming.
For me, different styles of music serve different purposes, but all of them help me rest, reflect, or draw near to the Lord:
Ludovico Einaudi’s piano pieces – gentle and soothing, perfect for unwinding or journaling. They always help me rest and relax, any time of the day.
Worship music – reminding me of God’s promises and filling my mind with truth.
Classical music like Beethoven and Bach – rich and timeless, often helping me focus and reflect.
Some of Gilbran Alcocer’s work – stirring and thoughtful, often inspiring stillness.
Some of ønehwart – beautifully composed, with simple melodies that invite quiet reflection.
Rachel’s, particularly the “Music for Egon Schiele” album – contemplative, great for slowing down and noticing the small things.
Harp music – delicate and peaceful, echoing the way David once played before king Saul
Some Native American flute music – gentle and natural, a reminder of the beauty of God’s creation.
Psalm 33:2–3 says: “Praise the Lord with the harp; make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre. Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy.” Music in various forms can be a way of praising God, refreshing our souls, and preparing our hearts to serve others well.
Getting a Massage
Even Jesus invited people to rest their weary bodies and souls (Matthew 11:28–30). Massage has become one of the ways I intentionally receive that kind of rest. Unlike stretching, which is something I can do myself in small daily ways, massage is about allowing someone else to step in and help care for my body.
Living with chronic pain, there are knots and layers of tension I simply can’t release on my own. Massage therapy helps reach those deeper places, loosening what is tight and restoring what has been worn down. This relief is more than physical—it helps me redirect my focus away from discomfort and back to what God is calling me to do.
It’s also a humbling reminder that God often uses others to bring us the care we need. In Galatians 6:2 we are told to “carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Sometimes that burden is spiritual, and sometimes it’s even physical. Receiving help through massage has taught me that accepting care isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom, and it enables me to pour back out from a place of renewal.
Scuba Diving
Psalm 104:25 says, “There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number—living things both large and small.” The ocean is one of the least explored places in the world, and every time I dive beneath the surface, I feel as though God is giving me a quiet glimpse into one of His hidden treasures.
Being underwater almost feels like stepping into a secret with the Lord. It is so still, yet so alive. It’s quiet in a way that forces me to be fully present in the moment, life seems to slow down and my heart finds pure peace.
Science affirms what God has already designed: water has a calming effect on our minds and bodies. Studies show that being near or immersed in water reduces stress and increases feelings of well-being and awe (White et al., 2010; Nichols, Blue Mind, 2014). Immersion in water has also been linked to easing anxiety and refreshing the nervous system (Becker, 2014, Int J Aquatic Res and Education).
Scripture often points to water as a symbol of refreshment and peace:
John 4:14 – “Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Isaiah 58:11 – “The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.”
Psalm 23:2 – “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.”
For me, scuba diving is one of those rare times when I tangibly feel all of that at once—God’s creation declaring His glory, His peace washing over me, serene quietness and a level of stillness, reminding me that He is near. It is both adventure and worship, a holy quietness under the waves that draws my heart closer to Him.
Taking Photos of Nature & Editing Them
Photography has long been one of my favorite ways to slow down and see God’s creation with fresh eyes. When I look closely through a lens, I notice the colors, shapes, and tiny details that I might otherwise overlook in the surrounding flora & fauna. Scripture tells us:
Psalm 19:1 – “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
Genesis 1:31 – “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.”
Psalm 104:24 – “How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.”
Isaiah 40:26 – “Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name.”
Capturing those details in a photo is like collecting little reminders of God’s handiwork. Editing the images later gives me the chance to highlight that beauty in new and creative ways.
Stretching
Stretching is more than loosening muscles—it’s a way to slow down, breathe deeply, and give thanks for the body God has given me. Living with chronic pain, I know firsthand how much it can weigh on my mood, focus, and even my perspective on the day. Pain can be distracting and discouraging, and sometimes it feels like it steals my energy before I’ve even begun.
But when I take time to stretch, I’m choosing to care for and nurture the body God entrusted to me. Gentle movement helps release tension, improves circulation, and eases some of the discomfort I carry, even if just for a while. Even small moments of physical relief remind me that I can continue to serve my family, my community, and the Lord with greater energy and joy.
Paul encourages us in Romans 12:1 to “offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” Stretching, for me, becomes a way of offering my body back to Him, reminding myself that even in weakness, I can glorify God by caring for what He’s given me.
And to be clear: when I talk about stretching, I don’t mean yoga or spiritualized practices rooted outside of Christ. I mean simple, practical stretches, loosening stiff muscles that allow me to function a little better and serve the Lord and others with a more willing spirit.
Stretching may not erase my chronic pain, but it helps me live with it more gracefully. It’s a reminder that small acts of stewardship matter. Simple rest is part of honoring the bodies God gave us.
As you consider these practices, and if any of them might be a right fit for you, here are some questions to help you pause, pray, and possibly apply them to your own life:
Studying God’s Word – How can I set aside intentional time this week to delight in God’s Word and let it refresh me?
Listening to Scripture – Where in my daily routine could I replace noise or distraction with Scripture being read aloud?
Quality Time With Loved Ones – Who in my life reflects God’s joy to me, and how can I intentionally spend time with them this week?
Snuggling With Fur Babies – How has God used my pets (or His creation) to remind me of His tenderness and care?
Slow Time in Nature – When was the last time I slowed down enough in creation to notice the details of God’s handiwork? How can I plan a moment like that soon?
Listening to Music – What kind of music helps me draw closer to God or find rest? Could I make a playlist that points me back to Him?
Getting a Massage (or physical rest) – How can I better honor my body as God’s temple this week—through rest and care? Or maybe it looks like a workout or a run for you?
Scuba Diving (or unique adventures in or near water) – Where do I experience awe in God’s creation, and how can I plan to step into that?
Photography – What small details in creation around me can I capture or notice today as reminders of God’s beauty?
Stretching – How can I invite God into even the small, quiet moments of caring for my body, turning them into an act of worship or healthier rhythms?
Are there other ways you find rest, joy, and connection with God that may not look the same as the practices I’ve shared? What does your “self care” look like? Practices that draw you closer to Him?
True self-care isn’t about escaping responsibilities—it’s about preparing ourselves to carry them with grace. When we intentionally nurture our souls, bodies, and minds in ways that honor God, we reflect His image more fully to those around us.
“Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” – Mark 6:31
Self-care done God’s way fills us so that we can pour out more love, patience, and service into the lives of others.
Thank you for being here and taking the time to read this blog post. God bless you friend.