I'm a big fan of self-care. Actually, it might be classified as self-spoil in my case.
I attribute a healthy attitude, good work ethic, and physical strength to my weekly (if not daily) consciousness of what my body or mind needs. In my experience, that kind of intuition breeds creativity, healthy relationships, and overall health. And it's not to say that I don't beat myself up.
I'm an avid horseback rider who loves the rush of flying through the air over a jump or galloping up a steep mountainside only to stop at the top and take in the vista while we both catch our breath. Last year, I threw a leg over a wild mustang for the first time in my life and several months later took a good fall off my trusty steed mid-competition.
Embarrassingly enough, I also threw my back out during a yoga class, ahem, gentle yoga class. I also soothe these sores with lattes and donuts and chocolate cake (my ultimate weakness) but the other half of the coin are these things: deep tissue massage (Sorella's Day Spa), a good chiropractor (Rockpoint Chiropractic), reiki (Inner Peace Reiki), and a really good green smoothie (Green Source).
Balance, to me, is being broken and being put back together time and time again. In the midst of your day-to-day duties, don't forget to kick your feet up with a good read, book the massage, or call the babysitter just because you need a break. I'll be raising a glass to you!