She showed up: A self care essay for women

She’s been holding it together for so long, not because she wants to, but because she has to.

Some mornings, she wakes up and the world is already waiting. Messages. Lists. People who need things. She doesn’t even start from zero anymore. She starts from tired.

And still, she shows up.

She moves through the motions, the coffee, the shower, the routine. Not because she has endless energy, but because she has learned how to run on grit. She doesn't fall apart. She doesn't make a scene. She just keeps moving.

But inside, she is craving space. Space to breathe, to feel, to exist outside of what everyone expects from her.

She remembers the version of herself who could simply be. Not performing. Not pleasing. Just present.

The version who did not rush past the mirror. Who enjoyed the small ritual of getting ready. Who felt like herself when her reflection looked back and said, I know you. That is the part she wants to find again.

So she starts where she can. She finds the small things that give her joy. When she looks good, she feels good. So she makes time for herself again. Curls her hair, wears her Chanel lipstick, and slips on one piece she loves. Not to impress anyone, but to anchor herself.

One small shine and her body softens. Breath slows. She remembers herself.
A familiar glint, a steady breath. Nerves settle. She is here.

Her appearance becomes light armour for a full day. Then she picks up the bag, answers the call, and goes. Different inside, even if nothing outside has changed. Because that is what showing up really is. Not perfection. Not pretending.

A quiet promise you make to yourself: I will keep choosing me, even when it is hard.

You do not need hours or luxury to feel like you again.
Tiny pauses bring you back.

• Walk on your lunch break. Let your body move. 
• Sit in the sun for five minutes. Warmth, light, a simple reset.
• Take three slow breaths between tasks. In. Out. Repeat.
• Call your best friend and vent out. Connection lightens the load.
• Read a quote that lifts you. Let it reroute your mood.
• Watch your show without guilt. Joy counts, even when it is quiet.
• Eat something that comforts you. Nourishment is care, not a reward.
• Sit in silence. No phone. No noise. Let your mind land.
• Choose one piece you love and put it on. Let the glimmer mark the moment you chose you.

Each small act is proof. You do not have to abandon yourself to show up for everyone else.

A reminder for you

Do not wait for perfect. Start small.
Get ready in the way that makes you feel like you.
Put on the thing that makes you smile for one second.

Feel the spark that says, she is still in there.

On the days that feel like too much, you do not have to do it all.
Show up for yourself, then take the next right step.