A few thoughts about self-care

A gray and white tabby cat with its eyes closed lays next to a laptop displaying the ANR website.

While working from home, stay connected with friends, family and work colleagues. Fais dodo, shown, demonstrates self-care. Photo by Heidi von Geldern.

In the midst of a pandemic, it is difficult to define health or healthy in any other terms other than no COVID-19 detected, recovered from COVID-19 or remaining asymptomatic from COVID-19.

However, “health” is not just the absence of disease. The World Health Organization (WHO,) defines health as “… a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”

As we work from home carrying out the UC ANR mission of helping others, we need to take care of ourselves as well. Walk, practice your musical instrument, stretch, eat well, pet your cat or dog and stay connected with friends, family and work colleagues.

Here are a few thoughts about self-care.

“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”
- Anne Lamott, American author

“You yourself; as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.” - Buddha

“Self-care is never a selfish act—it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on earth to offer to others.”
- Parker Palmer, American author

Some opportunities for self-care

Physical wellness