By Sarah Paton, ND
Dr. Sarah Paton, NDCare doesn’t always need to be productive or efficient. Sometimes it’s meant to be felt—especially when you’re someone who gives so much of yourself to others.
If you don’t usually cook, consider making a simple date with yourself. Plan something nourishing and low-stress, like a tray bake of citrus chicken with potatoes—easy to prepare and generous enough to leave leftovers for the week.
Set the table. Light a candle. Put on relaxing music. Let the smell of food fill the house.
Cooking and sharing a meal—whether alone or with loved ones—creates a pause that helps the body and nervous system settle.
This kind of care reminds you that you belong on your own care list too—perhaps even at the top.
If you need inspiration, the New York Times Cooking section is a wonderful daily resource to draw from.
Dr. Sarah Paton, a licensed naturopathic physician, specializes in natural, integrative medicine at drsarahpaton.com.
Disclaimer: Self Care posts are shared for information purposes only, and are never intended as individual medical advice nor as a substitute for healthcare services.