Timeless Self-Care

If you wonder about ancient people and their self awareness, this article has some interesting points on how different cultures of people made time to care for their body and mind.

Historical self-care practices varied widely depending on cultural, societal, and economic factors. The people within these societies crafted practices that we can surmise, were performed for relief, pleasure, and/or self-regulation.

Here are some examples that we can surely relate to that are listed by Global Societies in World History:

1. Ancient Greece and Rome

Public baths were common in these two civilizations, offering not only cleanliness but also social interaction and relaxation. There were practical aspects in these bath buildings but it became a place for class mingling. It became a public place for sharing body care rituals. These societies also incorporated physical activity in their lives. One can imagine that as civilization rose, many people needed to avoid sedentary lifestyles. Both Romans and Greeks practiced exercise, such as gymnastics and athletics for body wellness. It is further believed exercise played a part in mental well-being.

2. Medieval Europe

Monasteries and convents served as centers for healing and self-care, providing herbal remedies, gardens for relaxation, and quiet spaces for contemplation and prayer. This form of self care was more about regulating the personal experience of the individual beside the Cultural Norms and Beliefs of the entire society. Self development was part of their self-care practice in actions they believed brought them closer to Spirit/Source.

3. Traditional Chinese Medicine/ Asian Societies

Practices such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, qi gong, and tai chi have been used for centuries to promote balance and harmony within the body and mind. All society of man seeks activities of self regulation after the over stimulation from life.

4. Ayurveda

Originating in ancient India, Ayurvedic practices focus on balancing the body, mind, and spirit through diet, herbal remedies, yoga, meditation, and cleansing rituals. Body care practices such as dry brushing are widely practiced in ayurveda. Dry brushing is a method of stimulating blood flow and improving circulation to the skin. Many ayurvedic activities encourage lymphatic drainage and purging of toxins. Body oils help in these self care rituals.

5. Native American traditions

Sweat lodges, herbal medicine, and ceremonial practices were used for physical and spiritual healing, often in connection with nature and community. The gifts of nature could be applied to self care by the Native societies of America. They had learned the functional use of the wild pharmacy of nature. And the spirit was treated through the performed rituals and self exploration that journey provides.

6. Renaissance Europe

The idea of "taking the waters" at natural hot springs gained popularity for their believed therapeutic properties, leading to the development of spa culture in Europe. This was a revisiting of our earlier Roman and Greek friends who valued cleanliness. Natural health remedies were sought in nature and again, water bathing served to create more social connection.

7. Victorian era

The concept of "taking the cure" at seaside resorts or spa towns became fashionable among the upper class, emphasizing fresh air, exercise, and relaxation for health and well-being. - Too much stone and pavement can make many feel cagey.

We all know that sometimes a candle scent and a restorative meditation session can trick the body to the same ease as when these types of seaside escapes are not possible. We can reprogram our minds in the moment to a more comfortable state of being.

Our senses seek either stimulation or peace in our attempt at a balance.

Throughout history, self-care practices have been deeply intertwined with cultural beliefs, spiritual traditions, and available resources, reflecting the values and priorities of each era.

At the JewelofTrades company, we will explore and borrow ingredients and practices, along with tools and scents that can positively impact your life. We will add these global gems to our product line. We want to be of great service, so please let us help you "take care of you".