Self Care in 2022

Are you ready to get off of that rollercoaster ride of weight gain and take control? If your answer is yes, you landed in the correct place. The New Year is shortly upon us and a perfect time to reset and reflect on neglected areas of our lives. As for me, I have tried Jenny Craig, Raw Generation, reducing carbs and more. Each of these can be effective if we’re committed and patient with the process. Self-Care is the most important care. By taking care of ourselves, this allows us to be there for our families. Think of it like this: when you take a trip on the plane, what are you asked to do first during the safety instructions? Yup, secure your oxygen masks first before helping others. We can not provide support to others until we care for ourselves first. 

Many of us live a busy life filled with endless lists of things to do. As a single mom, I struggle with balancing work, business, and my personal life. I’ve always said, “there aren’t enough hours in a day.” That said, I tend to eat out at one of our favorite restaurants or use my Uber Eats app at least once weekly. Anyone else guilty of living a busy and fast life? The hustle game is real and we need to do better. Last year, I was diagnosed with hypertension. I was surprised by not surprised based on my lifestyle choices. I’m committed to making better choices, lowering my blood pressure, and being consistent with it. Join me on this journey. Take a look at what Joanne Smith, Psychotherapist and former Social Worker had to say about health and self-care.

BIO  Joanne Smith

Joanne Smith is a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a Psychotherapist in private practitioner for over two decades on the Upper Westside of New York City.  Joanne was raised in the South Bronx and understands firsthand the challenges that her patients, primarily women of color face. She worked as a secretary during the day and attended college in the evenings to achieve her bachelor’s degree in psychology.  The mother of three adult sons, Joanne worked in the foster care system; during the day and she attended Fordham University School of Social Service. Joanne was a social worker and administrator for a Child Welfare Program, foster care and adoption and a social worker in elementary school Westchester County. She retired recently from the school system. 

Self-Care 

As a psychotherapist, self-care is essential to the emotional well-being of my patients. As women, we live hectic lives, careers, family, and often take care of elderly parents.  Self-care involves making a conscious effort to engage in activities consistently that promote positive emotional and physical health.  Self-care is an essential component of psychotherapy; therapeutic interventions assist patients in discovering strategies and tools to cope with life’s stressors. I encourage my patients to utilize meditation as a daily routine; my favorite meditation apps are “Insight Timer” and “Calm.” 

Super thank you to Mrs. Smith for sharing her wisdom and experience with our Keynote subscribers.