The buzz about “self-care” is on the rise, which I’m really excited about! Self-care means you have to listen closely to your needs, so it can look differently for everyone. Self-care is simply taking care of yourself so that you can be healthy, you can be well, you can do your job, you can help and care for others, and you can do all the things you need to and want to accomplish in a day.
The key to self-care? You have to be intentional! Proactive self-care also has positive long-term effects. It can’t be something you put off for later until you remember and it’s not a reward. It’s something you deserve inherently. Now, spending your paycheck online shopping is dangerous and not self-care! But, you can set a budget to enjoy things you like.
Popular culture can sometimes take topics way beyond what they’re intended for. This is not about “treat yo’self” but then struggle in other areas in your life financially. Being in-tune with your needs and prioritizing them is important and necessary.
Most importantly, self-care is not being selfish. We need to remove the stigma associated with caring for ourselves. You are literally a better person to those that need you most when you are committed to your well-being. I know I’m definitely a more productive member of society after I’ve taken a nap.
Here are some of my favorite self-care ideas to get your started:
- journal
- start each day by paying attention to your breath for five minutes and setting intentions for the day
- eat breakfast
- reflect on what you’re grateful for each night
- put your phone on airplane mode for a half hour each night and release yourself from the flurry of notifications
- call a friend just to say hello
- take up a relaxing hobby
- pick a bedtime and stick to it
- take a nap
- enjoy a warm bath
