The term self-care is heard all the time but do you really know what it means or how to go about doing it? How disciplined are you or need to be? How often do you ignore that aching or tired feeling, when your body, mind and soul is crying out, ‘please pay me some attention!’
Let’s take a little deeper look into what it takes and the things you can do to in order to practice self-care this summer, which will help benefit your body, mind & soul.
When you decide to follow self-care practices you are taking deliberate actions to maintain and improve your physical, spiritual, mental and emotional well-being. You are recognising and attending to your own needs to help ensure a healthy and balanced life and existence.
Self-care is about finding which activities and practices work best for you. One size may not fit all but you can choose what works best for you! Let’s take the journey together and take a look at some comprehensive practices for each aspect.
BODY
With different shapes and sizes, our bodies have to carry us from the cradle to the grave. It longs for you to look after it. It needs you to nourish it. It loves movement and needs your attention.
Help your body by: -
Regular Exercise: Engage in physical activities like walking, running, yoga, or strength training. It all to helps keep your body fit and healthy.
Balanced Diet: Eating a variety of nutritious foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, supports physical health and well-being.
Adequate Sleep: Ensuring 7-9 hours of deep quality sleep at night allows your body the time it needs to repair and rejuvenate.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is crucial for maintaining bodily functions.
Regular Check-Ups: Visiting your healthcare professional for regular check-ups and screenings can help catch and prevent health issues early.
Hygiene Practices: Good personal hygiene, regular bathing and skin care is not only good for you but plays an important part in body maintenance and relaxation processes .
MIND
This is an invisible powerhouse indeed! Always on the go it dictates and determines, how you rest & feel, what you think & say, how you view yourself & the world. Just like your body it needs exercise and stimulation to promote health and well-being. Some things you could think of doing are:
Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation can reduce stress and enhance mental clarity and emotional stability.
Continuous Learning: Engaging in lifelong learning through reading, taking courses, or exploring new hobbies keeps the mind sharp and engaged.
Time Management: Organizing your time efficiently helps reduce stress and increase productivity both at work and play.
Mental Health Days: Take breaks to rest and recharge mentally when feeling overwhelmed. If things are getting too much take a step back, even for a few minutes. The world will not end if you need stop for a moment.
Positive Affirmations: Using positive affirmations as a secret weapon to build self-esteem and combat negative thoughts can offer you a well-deserved boost. Tell yourself ‘I deserve to be happy, loved and treated with respect’
Limit Screen Time: Reducing time spent on electronic devices, especially before bed, can help to prevent mental fatigue and improve sleep quality. Why not wake up as the improved and rested you!
SOUL
Quiet, unassuming, hopeful and watchful the soul encompasses your identity, morality and spirituality. Waiting to be acknowledged so it can show you what it can do. It acts as a source of meaning and connection whilst helping to shape your experiences and interactions in the world. It is a ready-made influencer but only when you invite its company. Begin to awaken your inner self and spirit by doing: -
Spiritual Practices: Engage in spiritual practices like prayer and meditation. Even attending religious services, buildings and monuments can provide a sense of peace and purpose.
Nature Connection: Spending time with nature can be grounding and rejuvenating for the soul.
Gratitude Journaling: Keeping a journal to regularly note things you're grateful for can foster a positive outlook on life. Oftentimes seeing it written down in black and white makes you realise just how much you have received and can be thankful for.
Creative Expression: Participating in creative activities such as painting, writing, or music can nourish the soul. Just throw caution to the wind and all your inhibitions. Your spirit deserves some joy!
Acts of Kindness: Performing random acts of kindness or volunteering can provide a sense of fulfilment and connection to others. Also, a great way of meeting new friends.
Reflective Practices: Engaging in self-reflection or talking with a mentor or counsellor can help you understand and align with your inner values and goals.
With so much to choose from, you can be sure that there are techniques and practices that we have discussed that you can incorporate into you daily life. You just need to start!
BONUS TIP
Integrative Practices: -
Yoga: Combines physical movement, mindfulness, and breathing techniques to benefit the body, mind, and soul.
Tai Chi: A form of martial arts that integrates physical movement, mental focus, and deep breathing.
Mindful Walking: Walking with awareness of your surroundings and your breath can be both physically beneficial and meditative.
Gardening: Provides physical activity, mental relaxation, and a connection to nature.
Art Therapy: Engages creativity and can be a therapeutic process for emotional healing and self-expression.
Incorporating these practices into your routine can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
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