A guide to self-care that is fun and realistic
Life is hectic.
Juggling work, relationships, school, goals, expectations, etc etc etc understandably results in neglecting our own well-being.
Through choppy waters (times of challenge, self-doubt, loss, and uncertainty), self-care emerges as a miracle solution.
But what exactly is self-care, and why is it crucial for our overall well-being?
Self-care is not a frivolous luxury; it's the intentional practice of prioritizing your own well-being. It involves taking deliberate actions to care for your mental, emotional, and physical health. This practice goes beyond occasional pampering (a bath is great but it’s not the only way to care for yourself); it's about consistently engaging in activities that recharge and rejuvenate you.
We live in a world that often places more value on being busy busy busy. Not sleeping enough is a badge of honour to some (yikes). Neglecting self-care (for example: adequate sleep) can have profound consequences on our overall well-being, and life enjoyment.
Why is self-care so important?
1. Stress Reduction
Life's demands can lead to chronic stress, impacting both our mental and physical health. Regular self-care acts as a buffer against stress, helping to manage its effects and promote resilience.
2. Emotional Well-Being:
Neglecting our emotions can lead to burnout and a sense of emptiness. Self-care activities that nurture emotional health, such as reflection and connection with others, contribute to a more balanced and fulfilled life.
3. Physical Health:
The mind and body are interconnected. Adequate rest, proper nutrition, and regular exercise, all components of self-care, are fundamental for maintaining physical health while increasing energy levels.
4. Preventing Burnout:
In a world that often glorifies busyness (***sigh), self-care is a vital tool for preventing burnout. Recognizing our limits and setting realistic boundaries ensures sustained energy for the journey ahead.
5. Enhancing Resilience:
Life is filled with challenges, but a well-nurtured self can face these challenges with resilience and grit. Self-care fosters a mindset that views setbacks as opportunities for growth, cultivating adaptability and perseverance.
With these considerations in mind, let’s explore a more realistic and actionable approach to self-care. One that doesn’t rely on fleeting motivation but rather focuses on practical and manageable routines.
Let this journey be a proactive step towards a life where self-care is not an afterthought but an integral part of your well-being.
10 manageable steps to self-care
1. Self-reflection to recognize what we need
Start your self-care journey by engaging in self-reflection. Take a moment to identify your needs and desires, both on a practical and emotional level. What brings you joy? What activities make you feel fulfilled? Understanding your needs is the first step in developing a self-care routine that is tailored to your unique aspirations and well-being.
2. Incorporating humour (my favourite point)
Laughter is a natural stress reliever and powerful mood-booster. Incorporating humour into your self-care routine can lighten the load of daily stressors. What makes you giggle? Maybe it’s watching a funny movie (or your favourite TikTok), or perhaps being silly and playing joyfully with a dog. Spend time with people (and pets) who bring joy and laughter into your life. Browse your camera roll to revisit memories that brought you joy! Look for humour, and you will find it!
I write down a lot of inside jokes as they happen. Re-reading them is an absolute joy.
3. Fun and playfulness everyday
Playfulness is a key ingredient in joyfulness and self-connection. Infuse your routine with elements of play and fun. This can include trying out a new hobby, signing up for recreational sports, playing in the snow (sledding is great), or dancing around the house. Playfulness not only breaks the cycle of boredom but also reconnects us to our inner child.
4. Prioritizing mental wellness with mindfulness
Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, contribute significantly to mental and spiritual well-being. Take a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness by tuning into the senses and focusing on the present moment. Learning to tune in also helps us to better recognize our needs, which paves the way for us to give ourselves what we need.
5. Connecting with others in a supportive way
Humans are social beings that thrive with connection and support. Ever notice that rush of joyful energy that comes when you wave to your favourite coffee barista on the way to work? Or smile and nod at another dog walker? These small connections feel good and bring joy.
Cultivate deeper connections with friends, family, or a community that shares your interests and values, and who keep your best interest at heart. Having a support system encourages accountability, provides encouragement during tough times, and creates a sense of belonging. This is called social self-care!
6. Setting realistic boundaries to avoid burnout
Recognizing your limits and setting realistic boundaries is an act of self-compassion and a crucial element in caring for yourself. Our baskets can only carry so much weight in the day without breaking. Sometimes it is necessary to remove some items (tasks). This might look like saying no to excessive commitments to prioritize respecting your energy needs.
7. Nourishing the body with nutrition and exercise
Physical self-care involves taking care of your body. Nourish your body with a balanced diet and find a form of exercise that you love. Physical activity not only enhances mood through the release of endorphins but also contributes to overall vitality! Think about the kind and nurturing caregiver who gently encourages their child to finish their broccoli before eating a cookie.
8. Journaling to reflect on progress and gratitude
Tracking achievements, big or small, provides a tangible record of your proud moments to later look back on. This creates a bundle of proof of how awesome you are that may help to get you back on your feet in times when your self-esteem is low. Expressing gratitude makes us feel warm and connected while creating distance between ourselves and unpleasant thoughts and emotions.
9. Adopting a growth mindset
A growth mindset is a way of thinking where we view goals as achievable through hard work and dedication. Embrace challenges as opportunities for learning and growth, and view setbacks as stepping stones toward success. A growth mindset fosters resilience and motivation, encouraging you to persevere in the face of obstacles.
10. Nature is the key
Incorporating nature into your self-care plan is just as important as adequate sleep (in my opinion). Spending time outdoors has so many benefits for both your physical and mental well-being. If you are not already sold, listen to this Hidden Brain podcast! Nature provides an escape from our busy lives, which helps us to finally relax. Being in nature is an excellent way to practice mindfulness, by tuning in to the sounds, sensations, and smells in the present moment. This can look like a stroll through your local park, a picnic date, or taking a moment outside to look up at the trees and sky.
By aligning actions with values, infusing playfulness into daily life, and prioritizing mental and physical well-being, we can better navigate life's challenges with enthusiasm.
Remember, self-care is not a one-size-fits-all concept, so tailor your routine to suit your unique needs and preferences. As you embark on this journey, may your self-care routine become a source of inspiration, motivation, and enduring joy.
I am here if you need help exploring what self-care looks like to you!
Thank you for reading :)
