Self-soothing vs. self-care: what's the difference?

Have you ever noticed that sometimes the things that feel good in the moment don’t actually move you closer to feeling your best? That’s the difference between self-soothing and self-care.

Self-soothing is about comfort right now. Think:

• Curling up with a blanket and Netflix

• A glass of wine at the end of a long day

• Treating yourself to dessert

There’s nothing wrong with any of these. In fact, we all need ways to soothe ourselves in stressful moments.

But here’s the catch: if all we ever do is self-soothe, we end up neglecting the things that truly keep us well. That’s where self-care comes in.

Self-care is a gift to your future self. It doesn’t always feel great in the moment, but it pays off down the road. For example:

• Doing your workout (or part of one!) even when you’d rather stay on the couch

• Choosing a balanced meal instead of fast food

• Turning off screens and going to bed earlier

• Going to your physiotherapy appointment (and actually doing the exercises!)

  
  

Self-care often requires effort, while self-soothing feels easy. But too much of the soothing without the caring leaves us stuck—tired, stiff, and frustrated with our health.

The truth is, we need both. But if you catch yourself leaning too heavily on self-soothing, ask: What small act of self-care can I do today that my future self will thank me for?

You deserve that gift.

Remember, progress not perfection!

Shelley Turk