With plenty of people feeling anxious, discouraged, and angry nowadays, we thought we’d explore self-care practices for an Enneagram 8. It’s important for us to see, know, and celebrate each Enneagram type, and sometimes that means taking a time-out for a realignment. We’ve done our homework, studied, and explored self-care practices for an Enneagram 8, and we are hopeful in sharing it with you today. Let’s get started.
It is easy to get lulled into believing that self-care is simply “treating yourself,” but the truth is self-care requires your participation (which is why we call it a “practice”). Self-care is more than bubble baths, wine nights, exercise, or retail therapy. While we love all of those things and have even curated some fun products and ideas that lend to those, but we believe that self-care is less about doing and more about BECOMING.
As we researched self-care practices for each Enneagram type, it turns out that each needs their own version of self-care to discover freedom and find wholeness.
It’s no secret the Enneagram type 8 needs strength; it’s what keeps them and those they love safe from any and all threats. In fact, they are oftentimes called the challengers as they seek justice and control; this gives us insight into how Enneagram type 8’s manage the world around them. For an Enneagram type 8, seeking and pursuing greater strength is actually a way of rejecting or denying their own needs. It is for this reason, the Sacred Enneagram describes the best way to self-care for an Enneagram 8 is to CONSENT to STILLNESS.
What does it mean to “consent?” It’s simply means to actively agree to give of yourself–not at your own expense or in a diminishing way. Basically, because no one call tell them otherwise, an Enneagram 8 must choose (consent) to relinquish control and to give it over to the Lord. To do so in stillness, Jim Baker says, is to quiet the need to initiate action (harmony) in our own strength or timing. It’s stillness that teaches us restraint in order to discern what appropriate engagement looks like.
As you CONSENT to STILLNESS as a self-care practice for an Enneagram 8, we’ve included a few products or gift ideas to encourage this spiritual discipline. These products in no way represent self-care; instead, they are merely prompts to encourage the practice unique to your type.
The Mindfulness Journal
Oh man, consenting to stillness when you aggressively control your day can be a challenge. Pick up a Mindfulness Journal (or any journal for that matter) with a great set of prompts that will help you reflect and turn over control to the Lord.
You are Amazing Care Package
Got an Enneagram Type 8 friend who could use some self-care? Speak to the deep places of their heart reminding them how amazing they are, how loved they are, and how precious they are–make it safe for them to be still.
Aroma Therapy
Massage Ball Set
We love those in the body triad, so we are mindful of how much relaxing the body is where self-care can begin. Grab a set of aroma massage balls for a segue into consenting to stillness.
Enneagram 8
Defended Candle
Send a message Enneagram 8’s long to hear–that they are defended. Remind them of this with each use. This candle, made by our friends at Continued Good, is a perfect and thoughtful handmade gift.
Exfoliating Foot Peel Mask
What better way to consent to stillness than to grab a foot mask that will ground you to a chair or bed. Take it as an opportunity to turn over the defense to the One who defends you well.
How do you CONSENT to STILLNESS as a self-care practice for an Enneagram 8? We’d love to hear and share your ideas on what works for you. Tell us in the comments below.
