Self-care isn’t a new idea, it’s something we’ve actually lost it over time, mainly because of our devices. We need to reclaim our time back.
Self-care means different things to different people, it isn’t all about hot baths and cupcakes, it can be about self-love, respect, physical, spiritual and professional. I’m going to talk about the simple things you can start doing today.
Is self-care on your to do list? If not then it should be because it’s a worthwhile investment of time and if adopted and nurtured leads to positive change and a positive mindset.
One of the reasons that scheduling and planning for self-care is so important is because without it, your life will feel pretty unbalanced and can actually lead to increased anxiety, tension and stress.
People tell me all the time that they want to have more balance, joy, happiness, and fulfilment in their lives. When I ask them what they do to nurture down time, rest, and personal passions; most of the time I hear crickets. Even during “down time” most people say they are spending time on their devices to fill the time.
Taking time to slow down and be more mindful is not a luxury, vanity, or a waste of time.
It takes 21 days to form a new healthy habit so like all new things there’s a little bit of a learning curve but try to make it a part of your daily routine, the more you do it, the easier and more enjoyable it will become.
This doesn’t have to take a lot of time or money. Taking 5 to 10 minutes a day can give you what you need to maintain balance. (Yep, 5 minutes.)
This self care time doesn’t include things like:
Doing chores
Running Errands
Answering Emails, Phone Calls, or Text Messages
Scrolling through Social Media Feeds (No, this isn’t self care or down time)
Self Care does include things like:
Making yourself a cup of tea and drinking it while being fully present
Having a bath
Going for a walk
Riding your bike
Spend some time with your pet
Gardening
Reading a book (Reading a physical book is best so your brain is not overly activated with blue light from a device.)
Listening to a song or an entire album
Journaling
Watching a film while being fully present (with no other devices on or around you.)
Making something
Colouring
Breathing (This is a powerful self care technique that people forget to do when they’re stressed out. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth 3-5 times. This is great to do at work when you need a quick reboot.)
Avoid using technology so you can have your full attention present on what you’re doing.
You’ll notice that the tension, stress, and distraction energy begins to loosen and fall away from you as you start spending time doing something for you.
Each day it will becomes easier and easier to tap into that relaxation and restorative space. When you make this practice equally as important as your other goals, overtime, the things which are no longer a good fit for your life organically begin to fall away.
You’ll start to create a life that feels more aligned with you, more balanced and you’ll enjoy your life more by creating meaningful hobbies and exploring new interests.
What can you start doing today?