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[Girl Therapy: Practicing Accessible and Free Self-Care]-[Girl Therapy and Free Self Care]

Trying Not to Care · B2 · 2024-08-05

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📋 Summary

Redefining 'Girl Therapy': Beyond Materialism

In this episode, Ashley explores the concept of "girl therapy," a term popularized on TikTok that often equates self-care with expensive, materialistic habits like buying high-end skincare, pilates classes, or overpriced coffee. Ashley challenges this narrative, arguing that while these activities are enjoyable, self-care is not a luxury and should not be defined by a price tag. True self-care is about "really taking care of yourself" mentally, emotionally, and physically, rather than just "putting a bandaid on your problems to momentarily fix it."

The Core Philosophy of Self-Care

Ashley emphasizes that self-care is a necessity, not a luxury. She advocates for a proactive approach: "in order to take care of other people, you need to properly take care of yourself." She frames any activity that allows you to "slow down," "prioritize yourself," or "energize" your mind as a form of therapy. This shift in perspective is crucial for those who may be "struggling with finances" and feel "hopeless" because they cannot afford professional services or expensive products.

Practical, Free Self-Care Activities

Ashley outlines several actionable ways to practice self-care without spending money:

  • Prioritize Rest: She encourages listeners to "let yourself sleep in" or take a nap when needed, noting that "rest is productive" and essential for "charging your phone"—a metaphor for refueling one's own energy.
  • Set Boundaries: As a self-proclaimed "people pleaser," Ashley highlights the importance of saying no. Setting boundaries and "vocalizing my expectations" are essential forms of self-care that protect one's emotional well-being.
  • Mindful Consumption: She discusses the importance of "staying hydrated and eating what your body wants," emphasizing that "food is fuel" and warning against the negative self-talk often associated with body dysmorphia.
  • Gratitude and Affirmations: When life feels overwhelming, Ashley suggests using "positive self-affirmations" and reflecting on things you are grateful for to "redirect those thoughts" away from negativity.
  • Digital Decluttering: She recommends "unfollowing" or "blocking" negative influences on social media, treating one's phone as a personal sanctuary that shouldn't be ruined by the opinions of others.

'Girl Therapy' Essentials: Romanticizing the Mundane

Ashley introduces her personal "girl therapy" favorites, which focus on "romanticizing" everyday tasks to make them more feminine and enjoyable:

  • Morning Routines: She finds comfort in a structured routine that includes skincare, vitamins, and listening to "self-help podcasts" like Mindset Magic or 80/20.
  • Cozy Movement: Engaging in "cozy yoga or pilates" at night, complete with candles and ambient music, helps her process emotions while moving her body.
  • The 'Everything Shower': This ritual allows her to focus entirely on one task—shaving, exfoliating, and washing—which acts as a "brain dump" that clears mental clutter.
  • Creative Outlets: Whether it's making playlists, working on art projects with household items, or journaling, these activities serve as a way to "process how I'm feeling."

Ashley concludes by reminding listeners that they are not "superhuman" and that taking time to "reset" is a vital part of personal growth. By shifting the focus from consumption to connection with oneself, anyone can access the benefits of "girl therapy" regardless of their budget.

🎯Key Sentences

1
I think we all need therapy.
2
I don't think it's anything to be embarrassed about.
3
I don't think self care should come with a price tag on it.
4
Self care isn't a luxury.
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📝Key Phrases

1
start the week off with
2
break the bank
3
hear someone out
4
on the verge of a meltdown
5
come with a price tag
Expand All

📖 Transcript

The following podcast is a dear media production.
Hello, welcome to or welcome back to transicare.
If you're new here, hello, my name is Ashley, my arm just cracked.
Did you hear that? Literally, I think I just dislocated my arm.
If you're new here, my name is Ashley.
And if you're not familiar with the podcast, I like to say that it's mine and your therapy.

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