MissN's Blog Bits: Pamper Yourself?

When a friend or relative is sick, or even on the mend, we often say things like “pamper yourself.” I might say, “Give yourself a hug – whatever that means for you: a walk, a hot fudge sundae – whatever.” But we say similar things (though the last comment is more for emotional well-being) and we always mean something good. We mean well.

But why do we say it?

Is it pampering to wisely do the things that will improve our health? Is it simply good health care?

Our visceral reaction to “pamper” is utterly different than our reaction to “good health care.”

Pamper conveys self-indulgence, even spoiling. Good health care tells us we are prudent, practicing self-care with good old common sense.

Words are important. We see that in politics and bias; let’s look to ourselves as well in very personal ways. Be careful how you talk to yourself; it can have a lasting effect. As a psychologist, speaking on positive attitude, said years ago: Be careful what you say, your “self” is listening.

#goodhealth #selfcare #wordsaffectus #blog #bloggers