How many times do you look at social media and see the words Self Care? What does it bring to mind for you? A bath, a walk, a run, some time to yourself. Well, self-care can be anything you want it to be. Don’t feel that you must follow the crowds and don’t think that self-care is a new concept. It is purely a way of looking after yourself in the best way possible.
What is self-care and why do we do it?
Self-Care is the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one’s health and well-being. It allows us to promote health and active management of one’s well-being and supporting our immune system concerning illness and diseases.
Many people incorporate self-care into their weekly routine and thus allowing themselves the rest period and protection of looking after themselves and that of others.
What happens if we don’t take on self-care, well we get to burn out stage a lot quicker than you can click your fingers.
What is burnout?
Burnout is a state of physical and emotional exhaustion. It can occur when you experience long-term stress in your job, or when you have worked in a physically or emotionally draining role for a long time.
The thing we have to think about is whether we are our own priority when we discuss this topic because as busy people, we tend to put the needs of others before ourselves and then we have to re-evaluate and ensure that we are looking after ourselves. So where do you put self-care on your to-do list?
When looking at types of self-care it is important to understand that there are lots of ways you can deal with your self-care. A good way to explore this is by looking at the 7 pillars of self-care.
7 Pillars of Self-care
1. Mental – mental self-care is about cultivating a healthy mindset through mindfulness and curiosity
Example:- Practice Mindfulness once a day for 30 days will create a new habit, starting a journal or having a dump diary can support this.
2. Emotional- Emotional self-care involves taking care of your heart with healthy coping strategies
Example:- Writing positive affirmations, reaching out for support when you need it and acknowledging your feelings.
3. Physical – physical self-care involves taking care of your body with exercise, nutrition and proper sleep
Example:- Get outdoors and exercise, keep hydrated and ensure that your diet is healthy and nutritious.
4. Environmental – involves taking care of the spaces and places around you.
Example:- Ensure that your workspace is decluttered, Open windows and let the air flow through.
5. Spiritual – involves activities or practises that give you a sense of meaning to life
Example:- Trying Reiki, Going for a walk or learning what makes you tick.
6. Recreational – making time for hobbies, fun activities and new experiences
Example:- Take part in the things that you enjoy and have left behind, going to new places, taking holidays or breaks.
7. Social – building relationships with regular connections and healthy boundaries.
Example:- Spending time with the people that champion you, seeking time with relatives and connecting with groups that have the same thoughts and values.
Sometimes breaking self-care down into manageable chunks allows you to recognise your needs and where you need to place them. Never think that you have to do all of these things at once. Step by Step.
“Slow and steady wins the race.”