Self-Care
You Can’t Pour From an Empty Cup As human beings, we all have basic needs that need to be met. They’re different for all of us, but if our needs aren’t being satisfied, we end up feeling tired, unhappy and unfulfilled.
yourself, the children are constantly wanting your attention and you’re often left wondering if you’re doing a good job at all. You might find yourself feeling as if you’re hanging on by a thread.
In today’s society, the importance of self-care is rising. We generally understand that if we are stressed out, overworked or exhausted, we don’t perform well; yet we still struggle to take note of it and look after ourselves. In a way, it’s almost as if burning yourself out is praised because you’re working so hard and showing so much dedication, even though deep down it’s not doing us any good.
Sandi Phoenix is the co-founder of Phoenix Support. Having studied psychology, worked in early education and being a mum herself, her framework The Phoenix Cups has revolutionised the way parents and educators think about behaviours and needs.
This emphasis on self-care is important for everyone, including parents and even our children. Whether you have one child or four, the daily routine can be an exhausting one. You may have next to no time for
“Phoenix Cups represent your basic human life needs,” Sandi explains. “The cups are mastery, freedom, safety, fun, and connection. We all have those five cups, and when they are full, we have a strong sense of wellbeing. However, when the cups are emptying or empty, it impacts quite severely on our sense of wellbeing and self-esteem.”
www.pakmag.com.au | March 2020 17
