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Permission to Be Imperfect

By Sarah Paton, ND

Dr. Sarah Paton, ND

Most of us are doing the best we can with what we have. And right now, what we have is a lot of uncertainty, not enough rest, and a nervous system that has been running hot for a long time.

If you’ve been skipping meals, staying up too late, moving your body less than you’d like, or spending more time doom-scrolling than you care to admit — you are not alone, and you are not failing. You are a human being living through a genuinely hard time.

Caring for yourself doesn’t require a complete overhaul or a perfect routine. It just requires a little gentleness toward yourself — the same kind of patience and understanding you’d offer a good friend who was struggling.

One small act of kindness toward yourself today is enough. A nap. A slow cup of tea. A conversation with someone who makes you feel like yourself.

You are allowed to need care. That’s not weakness. That’s wisdom.


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.

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