Self-care has been having its day. It’s FINALLY being recognized as something not done out of selfishness but out of NECESSITY. Every day we need to take some time to devote to nothing or nobody else’s needs but our own. For many of us, especially within this past year when we were all forced to stay home and be around each other more often, it may seem to be somewhat of an outrageous notion to even consider. But now more than ever, it’s paramount that we try to make it a daily practice and habit. After all, how can we expect to be there for others if we can’t first be there for ourselves?
Many people think that self-care is only limited to activities like yoga and meditation. While those two are AMAZING options, they don’t provide an accurate description of what self-care really is. Referring to the above definition, self-care is basically stopping and checking in with yourself; asking how you’re feeling and what you need right now to help ease mental and/or emotional turmoil. Ultimately, that means different things to different people.
So, what are some examples of self-care?
-Stopping and taking a few deep breaths every so often throughout the day.
-Going for walk
-Taking a longer shower or bath
-Organizing things(if that’s a hobby)
-drawing/painting/working on craft projects
-yoga and meditation
-getting your hair/nails done
-reading a book with a warm cup of tea
-listening to relaxing music or a podcast
-dancing like no one’s watching
-cooking
-exercise
-eating healthy
These are all great examples to get started with! However in my opinion, and this is coming from a Coach’s standpoint as well as a personal one, exercise and better nutrition are the ULTIMATE forms of self-care. Prioritizing health and putting it first is the best expression of self-love. Last year tested our resolve physically, mentally, emotionally,even spiritually. We were faced with higher levels of stress, anxiety and fear. It was because of the heightened state of the world that a lot of us put our own needs on the back burner and shifted our attention and energy on our families and keeping them safe. But from working tirelessly and the stresses that came from it, we also became more run down.
It’s imperative that we maintain our fitness routine as well as our healthy habits, not only to ease our minds, but to also keep us healthy in every way so we can in turn keep our families healthy in every way! Never be afraid to put yourself first, even if it’s for a short time. It’s the BEST way to find and maintain balance. You may not be able to control what happens outside of your personal sphere, but you CAN control what’s inside of it.
Staying fit is also a form of self-care. Try our FREE Intro now!
to find and maintain balance. You may not be able to control what happens outside of your personal sphere, but you CAN control what’s inside of it.