What is Self-Care and How Do I Fit it Into My Busy Life?
Self-care has become a popular topic in recent years and we are often told we need to practice it for the benefit of our mental health. But what is it? It is the intentional way we take care of our physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being. It is about taking care of ourselves so we are better able to manage everyday stresses. It is preemptively managing our overall health. Often we are told self-care includes bubble baths, yoga, meditation or taking care of our basic needs (i.e. getting enough sleep, drinking enough water, healthy eating, etc.). While these are all great examples, self-care is so much more than that and unique to each individual. What makes one individual feel at peace and well, may not for someone else. What is great about practicing self-care in one area of well-being, is that it often has an impact on the others as well. Below are some ideas to include in a self-care routine that can even be incorporated into a busy life: Physical: 5-15 minutes of direct sunlight - vitamin D has so many incredible benefits Go for a walk Pre-make a breakfast you look forward to having the next morning Have a treat Hygiene practices that make you feel good (skin care routine, hot shower/bath, spending extra time on yourself, trying a new look, brushing your teeth, etc.) Exercise that you look forward to and doesn’t feel like a chore Move your body in small ways (i.e. stretching during a Netflix binge) Emotional: Set and maintain boundaries - this sets the standards for how we want to be treated by others Seek connection: surround yourself with healthy relationships, engage in activities that interest you, regularly spend time with those who make you feel loved Take a pause: take a break from a task that is becoming too much, allow yourself down time and rest, use your vacation days for you Be aware of the media you consume: pay attention if you are feeling drained, stressed, heightened, or experience decreased mood after a show, movie, podcast, listening to particular music, or scrolling social media Mental: Unplug: take time to unplug from the tv, phone, computer etc. Constant intake of information is overwhelming for our brain and can also make us feel lethargic or foggy Set a timer for 15 minutes (or whatever time frame that feels right for you) and try to accomplish one task. Having a brain bogged down by an endless to-do list is exhausting. Doing something small can lessen the load and make us feel accomplished. Do more of what you love - hobbies, activities, visiting new or favourite places Get extra support when needed - ask family/friends for help, connect with a therapist, make that doctor’s appointment Try gratitude - shifting our focus on what we are grateful for, when possible, can shift our entire mindset and reduce negative thoughts Spiritual: Spend time in the places that bring you peace and connection - [...]