To do or not to do.... self Care edition
For the longest time, I held onto the belief that selflessness was the ultimate expression of love and kindness. I would tirelessly put others’ needs before my own, thinking it was the right thing to do. Little did I know, this mindset would lead me down a path of exhaustion and emptiness. It took hitting rock bottom for me to realize the this false belief
In that dark place, I confronted the harsh truth—I had neglected myself for toooo long. My well had run dry, and I had nothing left to offer anyone… especially myself. It was a wake-up call that shook me to my core. It was then that I embarked on a journey of self-discovery, a quest to uncover the essence of true self-care.
Through exhaustion I finally realized. Self-care is more than just indulging in superficial pleasures like candle lit bubble baths and face masks. It went much deeper. It meant treating myself with the same compassion and devotion that I so readily and freeily give to others. It meant drawing boundaries and saying no when it mattered. It meant recognizing my own worth and honoring it in every decision I made.
Through trial and error, I stumbled upon life changing ways to integrate self-care into my daily life. It became a routine practice that nourished my body, mind, and soul. And now, I want to share these transformative discoveries with you.
But first... what exactly is "self care?"
im ALWAYS happy to answer….. okkkk maybe not “Always” I can be a bit moody and reserved sometimes… but you get it!:) To answer you question Self-care is an essential aspect of maintaining your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It involves taking the time to prioritize your own needs and practicing activities that promote relaxation, stress relief, and overall happiness. Here are sixteen ways to implement self-care into your daily routine.
Prioritize Your Well-being: 16 Simple but Powerful Ways to make time for Self-Care
1.) Set aside time for yourself
This one is pretty much a no brainer. However, too many of us continue to neglect ourselves due to the business of life. Set aside time each day to do something that brings you joy, whether it’s reading a book, taking a bath, or going for a walk.
In today’s society it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind of work, social obligations, and never-ending to-do lists. We often forget to prioritize ourselves and our own well-being in the midst of it all. Or we intend to do something for ourselves, but find ourselves exhausted by mid day. Whatever your case may be taking time for ourselves is crucial for maintaining good mental health and preventing burnout.
It’s important to carve out moments in our busy schedules to do things that fill our hearts and re-energize us, whether that’s taking a walk in nature, indulging in a favorite hobby, or maybe indulging in a little TikTok.. Whatever makes your soul happy at that moment.. DO IT!
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It’s not selfish to prioritize our own needs/wants – in fact, it’s a necessity. When we give ourselves the time and attention we deserve, we are better equipped to handle life’s challenges and show up for others in a more meaningful way. So, let’s take a moment to pause, breathe, and set aside time for ourselves today and everyday.
2.) Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the moment. You can practice mindfulness by meditating, doing yoga, or simply taking a few deep breaths.
Practicing mindfulness may seem challenging at first. It requires a conscious effort to quiet the noise of busy thoughts.
Honestly though, it isn’t always easy. My mind tends to wander minutely lol and my emotions can tug me in different directions. By acknowledging and accepting my thoughts and feelings without judgment, I have gained a fresh outlook on life. I now extend greater patience to myself and others, and I find joy in the simplest of things. Being fully present has deepened my connections with the people around me, but most importantly, it has created connection with myself.
Mindfulness is a personal and intimate experience to each individual. It demands investment and dedication, but the rewards are double what you put in. Embrace the journey of mindfulness and unlock a world of inner peace, self-discovery, and self-care.
3.) Create a relaxing Environment.. a "safe place"
Make your living space a relaxing environment by incorporating elements such as soothing music, aromatherapy, or comfortable pillows and blankets.
Creating a healthy environment is necessary for
For me it took intentional self isolation and self-reflection to understand the importance of how my environment could make or break my mental. Taking a step back from everyone else allowed me to regain control of my surroundings which in turn helped me regain control of my mind.
During my isolation, I began to assess the people, places, and things in my life and took active steps to eliminate those that were detrimental to my well-being. I isolated myself to reconnect with myself. I adventured and became really curious about where I felt the most nurtured. I sought out places that brought me peace, calmness. People that empowered and fulfilled me. It was a beautiful yet agonizing process, but it was worth it.
4.) Establish Boundaries
Set boundaries with others to prevent burnout and prioritize your own needs. This can include saying no to requests that don’t align with your goals or values.
Establishing healthy boundaries is crucial for fostering positive relationships with ourselves and others. It can be particularly challenging for those who grew up in environments where boundaries were not valued or taught.
Personally, I’ve faced difficulties in setting and maintaining boundaries, which often led to feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, and resentment.
However, with self-awareness and personal development, I’ve come to realize that boundaries are vital for my mental and emotional well-being.
I now communicate my boundaries clearly and assertively, while also respecting the boundaries of others. Despite the initial discomfort or fear, setting boundaries is essential for personal growth, self-care, and cultivating healthy relationships. Through establishing these healthy boundaries, I’ve discovered a sense of empowerment, freedom, and peace in my life.
5.) Take Care of your physical health
Make sure to take care of your physical health by getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, and exercising regularly.
Caring for your physical health is an incredible act of self-love that should be celebrated. By prioritizing your well-being, you are taking a wonderful opportunity to embrace a positive mindset and make lasting changes. Getting active will benefit you greatly down the road.
Through healthy habits like nourishing your body with foods that are good for you (cheat meals are welcomed ofc), exercising regularly, and getting enough rest, you will be laying the best foundation for your overall wellness. With dedication to your health, you’ll find that you can boost your energy levels naturally no more Celsius energy drinks,
Maintaining a healthy relationship with your physical health can improve your mental health and emotional well-being. Cherish your body, honor your needs, and prioritize self-care. Remember, do what works for you. Start small and build yourself up. Baby steps are still steps:)
6.) Engage in Hobbies
Engaging in hobbies that bring you joy can help you relax and recharge. This can include painting, writing, or playing an instrument.
Engaging in activities that bring you joy is an essential act of self-care. It’s a liberating experience that allows you to unwind and nourish your passions.
As someone who has fought.. and I do mean i’ve FOUGHT with anxiety and burnout. writing is something I love to do. When I find experiencing anxiety or discomfort I begin to write about it. Doing this I’ve been able to fall even deeper in love with writing. The Self Love Diary is a direct result of me implementing change on my healing journey. Sharing motivational perspective and my testimony has become my purpose and my greatest passion. When I start writing, the worries of my world fade away.. Highschool me can’t believe im saying this because.. She HATED writing. Seriously though when I am writing time flashes by.
Through writing, I have discovered a profound sense of achievement and self-expression that I never knew resided within me. My hobbies have transformed into transformative tools for healing and personal growth, clearing my mind, body, and soul.
I wholeheartedly urge everyone to embrace their own hobbies as a form of self-care and celebrate their unique interests. Hobbies have the potential to create passion which in turn makes live that much easier to deal with on those hard days.Embrace your hobbies and watch as they become a guiding light on your journey of self-care.
7.) Spend time in nature
Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental health. Take a walk in the park or go on a hike to connect with the natural world.
For me, spending time in nature has been my go to act of self-care since I can remember. Im a small town southern country girl who enjoys all things nature (except the mosquitos they are literally everywhere lol). Seriously though being in nature gives you a chance to disconnect from the business of everyday life. It allows me to reconnect with who I am at my core.
There’s something incredibly special about being surrounded by the beauty of nature, whether it’s the sound of birds singing in the trees, the feel of sun on my skin, or the smell of fresh air. It’s a reminder that I’m part of something greater, and that my worries and stresses are just a small part of the bigger picture.
When I’m out in nature, I’m reminded to slow down, take a breath, and be present in the moment. It’s a time for reflection, gratitude, and mindfulness. Whether I’m hiking a mountain, lounging by a river, or simply sitting outside in my favorite local park. Spending time in nature is the self-care practice that replenishes my spirit and nourishes my soul.
8.) Practice Gratitude
Take time each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for, no matter how small they may seem
Embracing gratitude has the power to reshape our thoughts and perspectives. My own gratitude journey began when I realized how much negativity and self-criticism were weighing me down and slowing down my progress in life. I was so focused on the negative I found myself trapped in a cycle of self-loathing and resentment. I was completely unaware of all the beauty that surrounded me.
I began to make the conscious choice to incorporate gratitude into my daily life. This is what helped shift everything. I shifted my focus from dwelling on the negatives to appreciating the positives. Instead of constantly berating myself, I began to acknowledge and cherish the wonderful qualities I possessed. This simple act of shifting my attention to the positive aspects of life has brought me so much joy.
What makes practicing gratitude so monumental is because It can be as effortless as taking a few moments each day to reflect on what we are grateful for. It doesn’t have to be anything grand but something personal to you. Regardless of the approach you choose, embracing gratitude holds the potential to transform your life—mind, body, and soul.
9.) Connect with others
Connecting with others isn’t just a social activity, it can also be an act of self-care. As human beings, we are wired to seek connection and belonging, and being able to share your experiences and emotions with someone else can be incredibly validating and healing.
For me, connecting with others has been something Ive had to work on during my self-care journey. When I’m feeling overwhelmed or anxious. I usually isolate myself until I feel okay again. Ive been actively combating my isolation by reaching out to a family member (im a mommy’s girl) until I feel comfortable branching out and attending events with lots of people.
Being able to talk to a trusted friend or family member can help me process my emotions and gain new perspective. Sharing my struggles with others also helps me to feel less isolated and reinforces the idea that I am not alone in my struggles, that it’s okay to depend on others. It reminds me that isolation is a choice!
Whether it’s through meaningful conversations, shared experiences, or even just a simple text message, connecting with others reminds me that there is love and support in the world, and that I am worthy of both giving and receiving it.
10.) Practice Self compassion
Treat yourself with kindness and compassion, especially during difficult times. Acknowledge your struggles and give yourself the same love and support you would give a close friend.
Being kind to myself in-spite of mistakes and unmet goals, has brought me happiness and inner peace. I’ve shifted from self-criticism to comforting self-talk, allowing me to be human, learn, and grow. This approach naturally produces patience, understanding, and boosts confidence. Self-compassion empowers me to navigate life’s challenges with grace and acceptance.
You also have that same power to cultivate self-compassion within yourself. Take a moment to be gentle and kind to your own soul, embracing every mistake as a stepping stone towards growth. Offer yourself words of comfort and reassurance, just as you would someone else. Believe in your own strength and capacity to nurture a deep sense of love and acceptance for yourself. You deserve it, and you are worthy of the healing and peace that self-compassion brings.
11.) get enough sleep
Sleep is crucial for overall well-being. Make sure to get enough restful sleep each night to feel refreshed and energized.
Getting enough sleep is not just a necessity but it’s also an act of self-care. It’s a vital component that promotes physical, emotional, and mental well-being.For me, I view getting rest as a gift. It allows my body and mind to rest, recharge and rejuvenate.
When I sleep well, my mood is better, my energy level is higher, and my productivity is greater. Over the years I have come to realise that sleep is crucial for a healthy lifestyle. It’s a gesture of kindness towards ourselves and it can benefit us in ways beyond our understanding. As an emotional person, a good night’s sleep can calm any anxiety and lessen the stress that I experience throughout the day. It’s a significant part of my self-care routine, one that Ive recently stopped compromising on. The act of taking care of my body and mind by getting enough sleep is an act of self-love and the key to living a balanced and fulfilled life.
12.) Take a break from your phone
Taking a break from your phone is an act of self-care that cannot be overstated.
I’ve been through the struggle of phone addiction and yes that’s exactly what it is.. an addiction. I understand the heavy emotional burden that comes with constantly being glued to the screen. The weight of continiously checking messages, scrolling through social media, and consuming other people’s content can take a toll on your mental well-being one way or another.
Whenever you consciously choose to take a break from your phone, you are giving yourself the gift of liberation. You reclaim control over your time and energy. This allows you to prioritize what truly matters—your own inner peace and happiness. It’s a chance to unburden your mind, be fully present in the moment, and invest that free time back into you.
Stepping away from the digital realm opens up a world of possibilities. You can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, lose yourself in the pages of a captivating book, or find solace in moments of prayer or meditation. These acts of self-care help you recharge, find clarity, and create space for genuine connection with yourself and others. Embrace the freedom of disconnecting from the digital noise, and let yourself thrive in the richness of the present moment.
13.) Practice Positive Self-Talk
As someone who feels deeply, I know how easy it is to get trapped in negative thoughts about myself. I used to put myself down and compare myself to others. But when I started working on improving myself, I realized how much those negative thoughts were hurting my mental health.
As someone who understands the depth of emotions. I know how easily we can fall into the trap of negative thoughts and self-doubt. But I want you to know that you have the ability to change that narrative. This step if very similar to practicing mindfulness. When paired together it becomes that much more powerful. Remind yourself of your worth, strengths, and accomplishments.
Whenever those negative thoughts creep in, take a moment to pause, take a deep breath, and consciously replace them with positive affirmations.
This simple shift in your self-talk can make a profound difference in how you feel about yourself. It opens the door to self-acceptance, self-love, and a greater sense of inner peace.
14.) Listen to Your Body
Tune in to your body’s needs and respond accordingly. If you feel tired, take a break etc.
listening to your body is not just an act of self-care but an act of self-love and respect. It is a journey of self-discovery where you learn to understand your body’s signals and respond to them with kindness and compassion. It is about being in tune with the subtle changes in your body, noticing when you are tired or hungry or when you need extra rest or exercise.
By paying attention to your body, you can become aware of the patterns and triggers that affect your physical and emotional health. This awareness can help you make informed decisions that support your well-being, such as choosing healthy meals, getting enough sleep, and engaging in physical activities that you enjoy.
15.) Prioritize Relaxation
Make relaxation a priority by incorporating activities such as massage, acupuncture, or aromatherapy into your self-care routine.
Prioritizing relaxation is not just a simple act of indulgence, but a vital act of self care. As someone who has struggled with anxiety and depression for years, I have come to realize the immense impact that stress and constant activity can have on my mental health.
By intentionally setting aside time to engage in activities that allow me to relax and unwind, such as taking a warm bath, reading a book, or meditating, I am able to recharge and recharge my emotional and mental batteries. I have also discovered that relaxation helps me to better cope with difficult emotions and situations, as it allows me to re-center and refocus my thoughts.
There is no one right way to relax, and it is important to find what works best for each individual. However, what is important is that self care is prioritized and that relaxation is seen as a necessary practice for promoting emotional and mental well-being.
final thoughts
In conclusion, self-care is an essential aspect of maintaining overall well-being. By prioritizing activities that promote relaxation, stress relief, and happiness, you can improve your mental, emotional, and physical health. Remember to set aside time for yourself, establish boundaries, practice mindfulness, and seek support when necessary.
As we come to the end of this post, I want to share some personal thoughts on self-care. It’s important to understand that self-care is not just bubble baths and face masks, but a deep and powerful practice of self-love and compassion.
It’s about listening to your body, mind, and soul, and honoring your needs in order to live your best life. As someone who has struggled with anxiety and depression, I’ve learned that self-care is not selfish, but a necessary act of survival. We live in a world that often tells us to hustle and grind, but at the end of the day, it’s our own well-being that matters most.
So, take the time to rest, to say no to things that drain you, and to prioritize the things that bring you joy. You are worthy of love, care, and attention, and it all starts with taking care of yourself.
Thanks for reading
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