Self-care is it all its cracked up to be?

What does self-care mean for you?

In an article from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) they suggest “Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health. When it comes to your mental health, self-care can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy. Even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact.” (1)

What are you doing in relation to self-care?

Self-care is different for everyone. I love essential oils, a hot bath, reading and going for a walk in nature. You may love playing sport, beach walks, massages and long lunches.

It doesn’t really matter what you are doing as long as you are taking time to recharge your needs in a physical and emotional sense.

With self-care becoming more mainstream you will find asking for 5-30 minutes to recharge your mind, body or soul is seen as acceptable.

Daily rituals can boost your self-care and the more you do them the more they become a habits, and as a result you will start to do them automatically, just like brushing your teeth or hair.

Getting started with a self-care routine:

1. Determine the activities that you really love doing, the activities that replenish your energy, and restore balance in your daily life.
2. Start by choosing one activity you’d like to incorporate into your routine over the next week.
3. Practice the activity every day for one week.
4. Reflect on how the activity makes you feel.
5. When you’re ready add more activities.

Quick self-care options

I have created a self-care checklist you can download with suggestions in the areas of mind, body and soul.

If you want to dive deeper then check out my Guide to Nourishment e-book. This self-care workbook goes deep into each area of the checklist, prompting you to answer questions and look into those areas with curiosity.

In my personal opinion I think self-care is extremely important. Not only are you improving yourself and honouring the body you occupy, but there is a flow on effect to those around you.

References

1. Caring for your mental healthNational Institute of Mental Health. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Available at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health