Self-Care Interview with Brita Fernandez Schmidt
"Self-care means extending to yourself the same care you so readily offer to those you love. Caring for yourself is a powerful demonstration of unconditional love for yourself."
Brita believes that every woman has a fierce power to fulfil her dreams. She coaches women to help them transform their lives by awakening, and acting on, the power they have within. Brita is an advocate and promoter of women’s power, women’s rights and equality.
She frequently writes and speaks publicly about the challenges women face all over the world in the context of poverty and conflict. Brita currently serves as the Executive Director of Women for Women International – UK and is the Senior Vice President for Europe and External Relations globally.
Her first book Fears to Fierce will inspire you to realise your purpose and potential, ignite your fierce and create the life you have been dreaming of.
Check out Brita's website to read more about her book and coaching services. Follow her on Instagram @britafs for women empowerment, daily motivation and inspiring conversations with other amazing women.
What does self-care mean to you?
It means extending to yourself the same care you so readily offer to those you love. Caring for yourself is a powerful demonstration of unconditional love for yourself. Caring for yourself is a very individual and personal practice that requires you to tune into your body, your mind and inner power - your fierce - to enquire what works for you.
Has your perception of self-care changed, particularly with the events of last year?
It has intensified my commitment to my care practice. As with any crisis, it has shown me that it is often in those moments that the first thing to go is our care practice when we most need it. I managed to keep my care practice and if anything double up on many of the things that keep me well and I believe it is because of my regular practice. In times of crisis that is when it pays off.
What are some of the misconceptions around self-care?
Some of the most common misconceptions is that it is 'selfish' or 'indulgent'. When in actual fact it is vital. I read something the other day that I loved. 'You don't have to earn your rest'! That's it.
What are some of your favourite self-caring
I run every morning in nature and then go Yoga and meditation. In the evening I often journal before I go to bed and I always think of at least one thing that I am grateful for before I close my eyes. My affirmation will change depending on the day but I often set an intention that becomes my affirmation for the day during my yoga practice. Fears to Fierce is one of my top ones! It reminds me that it is ok to feel fear and to seek my fierce.
How do you make sure you’re regularly prioritising self-care?
Routine! That is the key for me! In the morning, no matter what the weather, I go out. It's key for me. The first thing is get moving! And because I have been doing it for so long, it is second nature. When I started meditating I had to find a time where I could fit it into my calendar, as otherwise I knew I wouldn't do it.
Why is it so important to keep going even when you’re feeling better in yourself?
That goes back to what I said earlier, caring for yourself is not just for when you are not well. Caring for yourself is a daily commitment. Just the way you start the day, every day, and you get up, in that same way you need to care for yourself. Every day. Because you matter.