Self-Care, Simplified

Nowadays, a lot of us find ourselves 'doing' things for everyone else.

This can include the daily activities of cooking, cleaning and doing laundry for the household, or even the added pressure of taking care of the older generation. While getting everything done for everyone else, we then tend to forget about ourselves.

Of course, there is also the stress from the last couple of years being added, and you may find that you are getting worn down.

Chances are pretty good that you have forgotten to take care of yourself along the way, or maybe you don't think you have the time.

It really doesn't matter if you are going into your place of employment, or if you are working from home. You still need to remember to take care of yourself.

What is self-care?

Exactly what it implies. It is taking care of oneself.

Self-care includes all of the things that you need to do for your own personal well-being. This includes your emotional, physical, psychological and spiritual health.

Self-care doesn't need to be complicated or expensive... unless you want it to be!

It simply means doing something specifically for yourself.

This could be something as simple as taking a bubble bath or reading a book that reminds you of how great you really are.

One book that we have enjoyed reading is from Jen Sincero, 'You are a Badass... and how to stop doubting your greatness and start living an awesome life'.

See!? We aren't the only ones that think you should be living your best life!

If a bath or reading isn't your thing, that's ok. Just figure out what it is that means self-care to you.

Maybe it's watching your favourite movie or simply turning off your phone. For some people, the knowledge of five undisturbed, quiet minutes can be just what is needed.

Perhaps, it's getting outside, breathing in fresh air and taking in nature.

Even if you are working from home, or working at home, you still need to remember to take time for yourself. You may forget how important it is to get up and get moving. It is important that you get up every hour and if possible, get outside. Even if it's just to drink your tea.

If the weather isn't cooperating with you getting outside, why not get your body moving with a home workout or yoga. Or simply turn on your favourite song and dance for five minutes. You will be amazed at how much better you feel.

Remember we said that self-care isn't only physical. Your mental and emotional states are equally, if not more important.

Maybe your mind wants to take on a new hobby, or a new skill. If you love to cook, why not prepare a meal that you not only enjoy eating, but really enjoy making. Or maybe take the time to try a new recipe that looks exciting. Remember, this time is just for you.

This is also when you can take time to meditate and clear your head. If you are looking at taking 'baby steps', take in a few deep breaths and clear your mind. You will find that this not only relaxes you, but it will also improve your focus.

Everyone talks to themselves. At least inside their own head. It is important to remember to keep this self-talk positive. Most of us have mastered the self-reminders of what we haven't accomplished. It is important for your psyche to correct that behaviour and not be down on yourself. Take time every day to focus on the positive in your day, while relaxing.

We have talked about gratitude before, and you need to take time to remember what you are grateful for. Some days, it is pretty easy to get bogged down, and you may find that focusing on gratitude will allow you to focus on you, and what you have.

Taking this time to care for yourself will also end up improving your quality of sleep. By decompressing (and breathing) before you go to sleep, you will find that you are more relaxed and your sleep will improve. A second 'win' will be that you are more rested for the next day too!

If you like to write things down, maybe take the time to journal throughout the day, or at bedtime. This will not only provide the opportunity for self-care, but it will give you a chance to reflect on your day and all that you accomplished.

Remember... Take care of YOU!!