Mental Health & Relationships Series
Let’s be real for a second. When someone says “self-care,” most of us picture candles, cucumbers on the eyes, or a frothy lavender-scented bubble bath while lo-fi beats play in the background. That’s cute and all… but according to therapist and mental health expert David Yeager, LCSW-C, real self-care goes way deeper.
In this edition of the Mental Health & Relationships series, David (aka the wise one behind Tortally Therapeutics, LLC) breaks down what self-care actually means—and why it’s more essential than optional.
🧘♀️ Self-Care: Not a Luxury, a Lifeline
“Self-care is often misunderstood as indulgence,” David says. “While those things can certainly be part of it, real self-care runs much deeper.”
Real talk: if you’re constantly pouring from your cup and never refilling it, eventually you’ll hit empty. And when that happens, burnout creeps in, anxiety makes itself at home, and irritability takes over like a bad roommate who won’t do the dishes.
“When we’re constantly pouring into others without replenishing ourselves, we burn out, become disconnected from our needs, and more vulnerable to anxiety, depression, and irritability.”
Sound familiar?
💡 What Is Real Self-Care, Then?
According to David, self-care isn’t always glamorous. Sometimes it’s basic. Sometimes it’s uncomfortable. And sometimes—gasp—it means saying no.
Here’s what it really looks like:
Getting enough sleep (even if it means logging off early) Listening to your emotions without judging them Moving your body—not to punish it, but to nourish it Saying no without guilt Eating something that fuels you, not just fills you Reaching out for support before you’re in crisis Checking in with yourself regularly (not just once you’re already overwhelmed)
It’s about tuning in. Being honest with yourself. Protecting your peace like it’s your PIN number. And yes, it’s about boundaries—which, by the way, are not walls. They’re doors with locks. You get to choose who comes in and who gets left outside shaking the knob.
“Self-care is the foundation that allows us to show up—fully and authentically—for the people and responsibilities in our lives.”
🌿 When You Take Care of You, You Teach Others to Do the Same
This hit me right in the soul:
“When we model self-care in our lives, we give others permission to do the same.”
In a world that praises hustle culture and emotional suppression, choosing to care for yourself is actually an act of rebellion. It says, “I matter. My peace matters. My energy is worth protecting.”
So no, you’re not selfish for canceling plans when you’re drained. You’re not “too sensitive” for setting boundaries. And you sure as hell don’t need to apologize for taking care of your mental health.
🐢 Shout-Out to Tortally Therapeutics
Big hugs and an even bigger thank you to David Yeager, LCSW-C, for sharing this wisdom and for always keeping it real. David is the founder of Tortally Therapeutics, LLC—a Maryland-based practice that’s redefining mental health care with a focus on authenticity, trauma-informed therapy, and (my favorite part) their adorable mantra: Be At Ease In Your Own Shell.
If you’re ready to make your mental wellness a priority—or just need someone to talk to—David and his team are here for you.
📧 therapy@tortallytherapeutics.com
📞 410-694-7213
🌐 www.tortallytherapeutics.com
📝 Final Word from Aunty C
Self-care isn’t optional. It’s not a trend. It’s not selfish.
It’s the daily devotion you give to yourself so you can survive, thrive, and live with purpose.
So today, ask yourself:
Have I checked in with me lately?
Take a breath. Take a pause. Take care of you—the world can wait a minute.
With love for self and all,
Aunty Christine XOXO
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