Self-care comes in many forms, but the most important thing is that self-care is about attending to your own needs and it is not selfish. Self-care is an act of intention to take care of yourself and wellbeing. We cannot present the best version of ourselves to the people we love, the experiences we desire and the goals we have if we are not well.
We thrive when we are balanced.
"The most valuable gift you can give your self is time. " Oprah
Although self-care can be as simple as reading a book or taking a relaxing bath, it goes far beyond those basics actions too.
It doesn’t have to be extravagant, it can be a visit with a friend, going for a walk, cooking your favorite meal, planning your week, working out or spending time organizing your space. Make the time for the things that make you feel well.
Avoiding Stress Overload with Self-Care
There is so much external stress that gets stuck in our bodies, our thoughts, our emotions. It is crucial to find ways that can provide a mental break; while lack of self-care might not be the reason you have stress, it can still be extremely beneficial as it allows you to re-focus your thoughts and to shift your attention to areas that need some love.
Our mind and our bodies are constantly whispering what we need... we just have to listen.
Have you ever noticed how tense your muscles get during stressful and overwhelming times? Talk about issues in your tissues right? Yes, all that stress can manifest itself physically. Stepping away gives both your mind and body a break. Cultivating a healthy routine and habits that you can rely on to bring back balance is not only helpful it is essential.
So don’t just attempt to ride out your stress by staying busy; a common mistake made by many. Instead take action with intension. Focus on how you want to feel and prioritize not neglecting the discipline and consistency required to attain that. Do you need 20 minutes to yourself every morning then wake up earlier, do you need to move your body then plan for it. Do you need to organize your day then set the time to do so.
There is no such thing as "I don't have time". We make time for the things we prioritize.
Instead of saying "I don't have time to go for a 1o minute walk at lunch" try saying
"Moving and attending to my body for 10 minutes is not a priority" hmmm doesn't feel that good to say you are not a priority to yourself right? So...How important is YOU to YOU...? Shift your mindset:
"I prioritize moving my body for 1o minutes during lunch"
Declare it and show up for yourself.
Self-Care Activities -Starting Small
Think about what can help your physical and mental health, consider these:
Focus on getting better sleep
Set a timer for quite time (disconnect)
Keep a gratitude journal
Read one chapter a day
Find a place outside to disconnect
Walk daily (step away from your desk)
Exercise after or before work
Eat healthier food and stay hydrated
Go beyond the basics too! Do anything that makes you happy and feeds your soul from the inside out. Think about what you can do at home, outside, at work or as a long term goal. Try taking up new things such as hiking on the weekends, incorporating Yoga every morning or having Sunday coffee with a friend. Need a little more? Try therapy, its a great tool and you don't have to wait for a life altering event to seek it.
Remember self-care should make you feel better. Prioritize cultivating small daily self-care routines that help your over well-being.
To Love & Inspire
Lorena - Selfcare Soul Wellness
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