What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the term self-care? Guilt, self-indulgent, unnecessary. That was my association. Clearly, I was wrong. And quite possibly, I misunderstood the definition of self care entirely. I most definitely did not understand how to practice self care.
Just in case anyone reading this shares my mindset, let me pass along two definitions.
Self-Care:
~ the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one’s own health.
~the practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s own well being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress.
Thus, self care can more accurately be described as responsible, vital and necessary. It doesn’t have to be bubble baths and luxury weekends away, although life may require that sometimes. More importantly, learning how to practice self care is an essential component of living intentional lives. And that is what we are about here, right? Creating meaningful lives with daily intention.
After doing a little research, I have found that self care can be divided into three categories. Those are routine self care, stress self care and happiness self care. Disclaimer, as if you needed it, I am not the authority on self care and I totally made these categories up. However, it is helpful to think about self care in this way to understand its importance and how it adds value to our lives. Today, I am going to break down the meaning of these categories and examples of how to practice this type of self care in our everyday lives.
Routine Self Care
This involves our practices, habits and routines that produce optimal health. This includes all areas of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. These practices are part of our daily routines to be affected as little as possible by outside circumstances or stress.
Routine Self Care Practices:
- Establish a healthy sleep routine
- Eat a healthy diet that fuels your body
- Move your body – At home exercise routines, walking/running, going to the gym, tennis
- Prayer/Meditation/Journaling/Reading
- Self hygiene
- Spend at least 15 minutes outside
- Make the beds – This is not for everyone but helps to set my day.
Stress Self Care
Life can be hard. This category is all about managing our stress levels and well-being during those hard times. This is not a one size fits all category. You need to find what works best for you. Here are some ideas.
Stress Self Care Practices:
- Walk outside
- Counseling
- Help Someone (I know this may sound contrary when going through our own difficult time but trust me – this is an important one)
- Add one activity that brings you joy per week (tennis, funny movies, a good book, eating at your favorite restaurant)
- Avoid isolation – spend time with family/friends who encourage you
- Take a short trip or day trip to change your surroundings
- Be productive daily even if it’s just making your bed
- Prayer/Meditation
- Gratitude Journaling
Happiness Self Care
This is a renewal and recharge type of self care. Probably what we think of most when we hear the term self care. Again, it will look different for everyone but these practices essentially answer the question, “What makes you happy”?
Happiness Self Care Practices
- Host a dinner party
- Cozy up with a good book
- Bubble Bath
- Spa Day
- Hike in the mountains
- Spend a day by the pool (this one is for me!)
- Plan a vacation
- Go on a picnic
- Movie night
Self care is so much more than a bubble bath. It is taking action and staying proactive in regards to all aspects of our health. It is about intentionally crafting the best versions of ourselves so that we lead meaningful and joyful lives. This has a direct correlation to the health of our relationships, our contribution to society and our overall impact.
One last but very important thing, if you are in need of a health overhaul, struggling with depression or anxiety or another condition I highly recommend consulting an expert. Your well being is worth it. You are worth it.
Feel free to share in the comments below your best ideas on self care. It may be something ordinary to you but a game changer for someone else.
Have a happy Monday!!
Jess
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