The Self-Care We Needed Then vs. The Self-Care We Need Now

Redefining what it really means to care for ourselves in 2025

Self-care. It’s a phrase that’s been used so often it’s almost lost its meaning. For years, it’s been associated more with indulgence, escape, or temporary relief from momentary stress—bubble baths, spa days, staying in bed a little longer, buying yourself a treat..

But let’s be honest.That version of self-care (although important) barely scratches the surface.

In 2025, we’re living in a world that’s more wired, more demanding, and more emotionally taxing than ever. The weight of ongoing global crises, economic stress, digital overwhelm, and personal uncertainty has left so many of us stretched thin. Our bodies feel heavy. Our minds run on fumes. Many of us are quietly grieving. And a lot of us are quietly wondering, “How do I even begin to care for myself in a world like this?”

The New Self-Care Isn't Surface-Level—It's Deep Survival

What I’ve come to understand, both through personal experience and in working with clients across the healing professions, is this: real self-care isn’t something you sprinkle on top of a chaotic life. It’s something you build from the inside out. It’s not about retreating from life—it’s about reclaiming the tools you need to meet life each day with resilience. And that requires more than a Sunday routine. It takes structure, support, space to slow down, and guidance that actually helps you regulate your nervous system and connect with yourself in a more meaningful way.

What Does Real Self-Care Look Like in 2025?

It’s not one-size-fits-all. But here’s what I see showing up again and again in my work with others (and in my own healing):

• Nervous system literacy. Understanding what’s happening in your body when you're overwhelmed—and learning simple tools to bring yourself back to center.

• Rest that’s truly restorative. Not just sleep, but conscious, deep, intentional rest that nourishes you on every level.

• Saying no with compassion. Honoring your limits and enforcing boundaries without guilt.

• Movement with meaning. Somatic practices that help release emotional tension and holding, not just tone muscles.

• Connection and community. The elusive element! The kind that reminds you you’re not broken—and not alone. And somehow fortifies your heart.
  

These are the foundations of long-term wellbeing. And they’re also the things we often need help remembering, practicing, and committing to.

Why I’m Inspired to Create a Self-Care Community

Over the last few years, I’ve heard the same thing from so many people:

“I know what I should do… but I don’t have the energy to do it.” “I feel like I’m always starting over.” “I wish I had a place to go regularly—to stay accountable, inspired, and grounded.”

So, I’m building that place...

The Art of Self-Care Community is a trauma-informed, science-rooted, heart-centered membership space to help you deepen your relationship with self-care—not as a checklist, but as a way of life.

There will be:

• Live virtual classes (movement, meditation, yoga nidra/ conscious sleep and more)

• Monthly tools and practices (Specialized workshops and member circles)

• On-demand support in the form of short lessons and talks that you can return to when life feels overwhelming

• And a steady reminder that you’re worthy of care—right now, exactly as you are.
  

And yes, I will also offer continuing education credits for massage therapists and wellness professionals through this community subscription, because I believe taking care of ourselves is an essential part of showing up for others.

In my work as an educator and guide, I’ve seen the need for a more grounded, accessible way to stay connected to self-care over the long term. And so we move forward… together!

This space will be for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed or unsure of how to stay connected to their own care—especially when the world feels like too much.

A space to rest, reconnect, and rebuild.

I hope you’ll stay close.

More soon. 💛

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About Jessica Crow

Jessica is the author of The Power of Guided Meditation and founder of CNTRD Wellness. She’s a dedicated meditation mentor, yoga nidra trainer, and wellness educator with a passion for helping people and professionals connect to their inner wisdom and grow through mindfulness and somatic awareness.

Discover free meditations and virtual classes on Insight Timer ✨ Follow Jessica on Insight Timer