At Points North, we are no stranger to hard work. No sooner than one project gets submitted, there’s another tasked assigned. We have always been intentional about our workload, and stress the importance of everyone taking the time they need to recharge. In fact, we’ve started implementing tactics like “no meeting Fridays” to ensure the team has room to exhale.
At Points North, we like to start each weekly team meeting with an ice-breaker. Somewhere in between “What’s your most overused emoji?” and “What’s your favorite 90s trend?” was the prompt “(Blank) is my therapy.” The team was prompted to fill in the blank with what they use as a means to self care.
We each took a turn sharing what has helped us stay mindful, bring us joy, or keep our stress levels low. Through this exploration into each other’s self-care practices, we’ve uncovered a tapestry of individual stories.
Kendra, Project Manager
What is the thing you do? – I’m not greatest at it, but Yoga has become incredibly important in my self care practice. I shared with my community a few weeks ago that when I feel balanced it shows up in my practice and when I feel off balanced, that too, shows up in my practice. I like to wake up at least an hour before my family to stretch do some yoga or ride my excercise bike. Moving my body is very important to me and it helps me fill up my cup before I pour out to others.
Why do you consider it self-care? – I definitely consider yoga and moving my body self care. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in the service of doing for others before the day starts. Taking a little time to just focus on improving myself and something that is actually good for me is not only self care but an act of self love.
Why is it important to you? – I think this is so important and sacred to me because I give out so much of myself constantly. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned the importance of making sure I’m refilling myself so I can continue to be of service.
Interested in giving Yoga a go? There are lots of online daily workouts here, no experienced required!
Naomi, Marketing Manager
What is the thing you do? – Aside from going to actual therapy, there are two things I consistently do for self care. The first is exercising. I workout 5 days a week. As soon as I wake up in the morning, I put on my workout clothes. I have a Peloton bike in my garage, and a weight set. I enjoy their cycling and strength training classes. They are challenging and also fun (dare I admit it). They have thousands of on-demand classes here. When I really need a good workout, I run the trail by my house. It’s 4 miles of rugged terrain. I’ve tripped plenty of times, but have never wiped out completely.
I like to see it as a metaphor for life. Some parts I can run, some parts I have to slow down and watch my steps. I always feel so accomplished after completing it, and usually head to Panera Bread after for a pastry (also self-care!). The other thing I do is take a shower with my favorite soaps, lotions, and potions! I make sure to take a deep breath, and smell all the smells.
Why do you consider it self-care? – These things I do just for me! Taking care of my body by moving it, feeding it, and caring for it make me mentally feel really good. Even if I’m having a tough day, I know by doing one of my self-care routines, I’m guaranteed to feel better (or if it’s a shower, at minimum, smell better!).
Why is it important to you? – When my day starts to get packed with meetings and tasks, sometimes the self-care item is the first thing to get the axe. Now I see it as mandatory, because I won’t be able to do the other items well unless I take care of me. I used to never put me first, now, it’s an important priority.
Laura, Graphic Designer
What is the thing you do? – I am someone who functions best when things are organized. This transcends across my life in various ways, the space I live in, project timelines, my calendar, my finances, you get it. I’m old school and like to keep a notebook full of lists that help keep me on track with what’s going on currently and what’s coming up. (Plus, is there anything more satisfying than literally crossing something off your to-do list? Sorry, iPhone. But checking a box in notes just isn’t the same!)
Why do you consider it self-care? – For me, this is self-care because when my life’s in disarray, I do not function as well. It sounds a little crazy, but if I know I have dishes in the sink, I can’t focus on the project at hand. If I have a heavy workload (whether it’s personal or professional to-do’s), I’m not going to sleep as well until I feel like I have it under control. (The blessings and curses of WFH life.) Having a notebook of lists keeps me in check and provides clear guidance for what I need to do next.
Why is it important to you? – When I feel like everything is organized, I am a much happier person. I feel like I have control and direction. I also find that I am much more productive because I am not tail-spinning trying to figure out which task to do next. Having my ducks in a row makes me a much more pleasant person to be around 🙂
Have a look at these these daily planners that will keep all your lists organized and pretty.
Jessica, CEO and Creative Director
What is the thing you do? – During the pandemic, I decided to dive into a level 1 improv class, opting for the virtual format given the circumstances (thanks, pandemic!). Surprisingly, I discovered a genuine passion for embracing the opportunity to be delightfully silly during such a notably serious time. Fast forward a few years, and I’ve successfully navigated through the core program at the Baltimore Improv Group Theater. Now, I find myself regularly taking the stage with an indie team, reveling in the joy of spontaneous performance.
Why do you consider it self-care? – Participating in improv classes can serve as a therapeutic outlet through various mechanisms. By fostering a supportive environment that encourages risk-taking and self-expression, improv aids in building confidence and enhancing communication skills both on and off the stage. The spontaneity required in improv cultivates creativity and adaptability, valuable attributes for navigating life’s challenges. Additionally, the stress-relieving nature of improv, coupled with its emphasis on playfulness and collaboration, offers a lighthearted break from everyday stressors and promotes a positive outlook.
Why is it important to you? – Improv holds significant value for me. In a world dominated by the seriousness of adult responsibilities, improv emerges as a refreshing departure—a realm of freedom, empathy, and spontaneity. The lessons gleaned from both practice sessions and on-stage performances really do translate into real-life applications. Engaging in improv sharpens my focus. It also instills a genuine sense of teamwork, reminding me not to take myself too seriously. It’s a vibrant antidote to the rigidity of adult life, fostering a mindset that embraces playfulness and enriches both personal and professional aspects of my journey.
Taking care of ourselves is not just a luxury but a fundamental necessity. As we share our tales, we hope they inspire you to explore, adapt, and embrace practices that elevate your own wellness journey. Remember, self-care is not a one-size-fits-all; it’s a personal exploration that adds color to the canvas of our lives. May you find inspiration and encouragement to carve out your own path to well-being.
Sound cool! You could try your hand at improv by searching for a local class here.
Naomi Oriol is a Customer Experience Specialist with over seven years in her profession. Her expertise include customer experience design, service recovery, quality and training, customer insights, self-service programs, leadership, and project management.
