Self-care is defined as the process of consistently taking care of one-self with behaviors that promote health and well-being.
More specifically, it’s the practice of looking after your own health efficiently and conveniently by doing things that help you live well and improve both your physical and mental health. It can be the smallest and simplest of actions that make big impacts because self-care compounds.
When you take time for yourself to make mindful changes in patterns of thoughts and behaviors, such as more rest, exercise or eating healthier, you will feel happier and have more energy to do more for yourself, and those who surround you.
Self-care can be viewed as selfish, but instead, your loved ones will actually benefit because you will show up for them in a better space.
Self-care is an on-going practice, built over time, and can be anything and everything you do for you, from drinking more water each day to taking 5 deep breaths when you wake up. The list is limitless and on-going.
Here are some more examples of self-care.
- Eat a healthy meal.
- Drink a cup of tea.
- Go for a 10 minute walk.
- Staying home.
- Take a shower or bath.
- Saying no.
- Engage in any form of exercise.
- Slowing down.
- Sit in the sunlight.
- Get 7 hours of sleep.
- Drink a glass of water when you wake up each day.
- Setting boundaries.
- Learn to cook something healthy.
- Meditate, or just breathe, for 5 minutes.
- Wash your bed sheets in preparation for good sleep.
- Asking for help.
- Meet up with a friend; laugh together.
- Eat less red meat.
- Spending time alone.
- Going outside.
- Listening to music.
- Dancing.
- Think one positive thought.
- Write in a journal what you’re grateful for.
- Eat more greens.
Which of these are you ready to incorporate into YOUR self-care?