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The biggest take away for me after reading the resources provided is the simple acknowledgment that everyone, including counselors need to practice self-care. Also, it was mentioned that in order to retain talented school counselors, and teachers for that matter, we should recognize the need for self-care and model how we balance the many demands of the job.

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Personal Self-Care Strategies:

1. Engaging in hobbies is one strategy I use to practice self-care. One hobby that I have is working with plants. I follow some 'plant people' on Instagram who give me tips on plant care and propagation. I have begun collecting small unique pots with the goal of sharing my plants with others. Another hobby I have recently started is painting. I bought an adult paint by numbers set and easel. Rather than sit and watch TV, I will turn on relaxing music and work on my painting.

2. I often go outside and sit on my back porch. Not only do I feel that vitamin D is beneficial, but just being in nature. I enjoy watching the birds, listening to sounds of nature, and drinking a cup of coffee or tea.

3. Drinking coffee is another self-care practice that I indulge. I have found some warm non-caffeinated drinks for the evenings. I feel that warm drinks and just holding the mug relaxes me.

4. Another self-care strategy I practice is yoga or stretching. I have a yoga pose poster that I use to improve my flexibility and balance as well as settle my mind.

5. I am unsure if this counts as self-care, but I also like to light a candle. I feel better and more relaxed when I do this. It is something I like that makes me happy. My house smells better and the glow of the fire is relaxing.

6. Family time is important to me. I will call my daughter who lives 3 hours away or go to my son's house to visit with him and his family. This reminds me I am a part of a larger family unit and not just by myself. I live alone and can feel separated at times. It is important to me to give and receive hugs and conversation with them all.

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People in helping professions should practice self-care because is will hinder burnout and enhance professional effectiveness. When self-care is disregarded, personal stressors may take a toll on the individuals physical and mental well being making them less able to focus on other people's problems resulting in less productive time spent helping others.