For anyone seeking to live a healthy, sustainable life, one vital habit is self-care.
When our lives are filled with activity, noise, & hurry, it is difficult to feel healthy & rested. When that is our overall experience with life, the result is that we can become stressed & burned out.
To nurture the health of our mind, body, & soul, we need ways to re-center & restore. We need these in short spurts throughout the day, & longer stretches.
The thing about self-care is that it is a practice that requires you choosing to do it. It will not happen unless you intentionally make space for it. The result is worth the effort. With a bit of self-care, you can experience more joy, rest, & soul-health.
Here are some ideas for self-care:
1. Simplify your schedule.
Are you over-committed? Are there things that you need to let go? Ask yourself which activities & relationships are truly adding value to your life, and intentionally make space for those things.
2. Do something that energizes your body.
Pilates, swim, run, do yoga, or whatever physical activity you enjoy. Exercise is a key part of self-care.
3. Create a Gratitude List.
Write down all the things that you’re thankful for.
4. Unplug for a day.
Go on a media & technology fast, and turn off any unnecessary electronic devices.
5. Stretch.
Find the kinks & tension spots in your body, and stretch them out. Yoga & Pilates are good for this!
6. Do something new.
Have you been considering learning a new skill or trying a new hobby? Go for it!
7. Dance it out.
Put on your favourite dance music & shake your body.
8. Write or journal your thoughts.
Take 10 minutes & jot down whatever is on your mind. Mentally release those things as you write.
9. Get quality time with a quality person.
Hang out with someone who you love. If they’re far away, give them a phone call.
10. Be still.
Find a quiet place & embrace the stillness.
11. De-clutter.
Choose a place — your email inbox, your desk, a closet — and get rid of the excess and junk.
12. Do an activity mindfully and slowly.
Savour the moment & experience your activity with attentiveness.
13. Take a walk.
Explore your area at a leisurely pace.
14. Reflect on your personal mission statement.
If you don’t have a personal mission statement, create one.
15. Enjoy a piece of chocolate or a beverage.
Better yet, enjoy both together.
16. Sleep.
Take a nap, go to bed earlier, give your body some extra rest.
Good for anyone looking to sustain your health!
Wishing you all the best & see you on the mat!