What is self care? Self care is intentionally setting aside time to care for one's body, mind, and soul.

This concept is important as we are heading into a new semester and a busy time of the year. While it may seem selfish, it is vitally important to take the time to care for one's self. If we encourage our friends to relax after a busy day or to go take a nap after a long night studying, we can do the same for ourselves.

There are three areas of self care that one can participate in.

1. Self Care for the Body

Our bodies are put under a lot of stress; they literally hold us together as we go about our busy days. We need to give our bodies a break once in a while - to relax, rest, and be renewed.

Here are some options for self care for the body.

- Take a walk or go for a run outside. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the sights of the world around you.

- Take a bath or a long hot shower. Relax and let your body rest.

- Spend some time resting. Naps, reading, sipping coffee or tea.

- Eat something healthy. Whether it's an fruit, salad, or cooked vegetables.

Taking care of your body is important.

2. Self Care for the Mind

Our minds are continuously running all day. Thinking. Planning. Dreaming. Creating. With how much our minds run, we need to let it rest.

Here are some options for self care for the mind.

- Relax with a good book. Literature is good for the mind and allows one to travel to far away places.

- Do something on your bucket list. Something different and new.

- Set aside time just for you. Whether that means sitting quietly for a bit, or painting your nails, or watching the next episode of your favorite show on Netflix.

- Take a short break from social media. Focus on the here and now. Spend time with a friend in person.

Taking care of your mind is important.

3. Self Care for the Soul

This type of self care is the most important. We as Christians need to nourish our soul with the goodness of God and His Word, even when it seems like life gets in the way.

Here are some options for self care for the soul.

- Daily Devotions. Spend time in The Word and with God daily.

- Read through the Psalms. Laugh, rejoice, cry, and worship with the authors who wrote the Psalms.

- Play worship music. Not just on Sundays, but in the car, while you study, and anytime you feel like worshiping throughout the day.

- Start a journaling Bible. Draw and sketch in the margins as you read through God's Word.

Taking care of your soul is important.

Now that we have taken of our bodies, minds, and souls - let us go out and Carpe Diem! (Seize the Day)