Things feel a bit overwhelming at the moment. And we’re just getting started. It’s going to be a rough ride and I realize that I need to find healthy ways to cope. I posted some intentions on Instagram.
Self care is more important now than ever. Studies show that self care increases empathy, bolsters the immune system and can help to avoid burnout, anxiety and depression.
Self care is not one size fits all. It can be exercise, solitude, time with loved ones, time doing your own thing or even paying your bills or cleaning. Whatever helps you to decrease your stress can be self care. You do you!
5 Easy Self Care Tips
Find strategies to reduce stress in the moment and use them throughout the day. Focus on your breathing or learn a quick meditation. The Skimm had a great technique posted on Instagram. If you feel stressed or anxious, try the “54321 method” to ground yourself. Take a moment and think of five things you can see, four things you can hear, three things that you can feel, two things you can smell and one thing you can taste.
Make small changes that you can incorporate into daily life. Pick one or two small changes per week. Like what? Drink more water, make a healthy food swap, set a screen time limit or take a social media break in the morning or evening. Start the morning with 5 minutes or quiet or yoga. Try getting up 15 minutes earlier but use those minutes for you only.
Get outside and get moving. Fresh air and exercise make you feel better. Even if it’s just for a few minutes, it can help you reset. Fernanda and I are planning to check out some trails and forest preserves monthly for a change of scenery and fresh air.
Focus on the positive. Each day write down at least one and up to three good things you did each day. This could include helping someone, spending time on something meaningful, taking care of your health or reaching out to a friend or family member. Pro tip from Lifehack, if you receive a compliment or thank you for something specific, write it down to reinforce the positive vibes.
Practice self-compassion. Negative self talk is so damaging. Many of us show compassion for others but are critical of ourselves. Give yourself a break and a pep talk. Pick a few positive affirmations and repeat them daily. This may sound a bit “woo woo” but compassion for yourself begets compassion for others.
What are your favorite ways to practice self care? Please share them in the comments.
I’m linking up with Darlene, Michelle, Renee, Jenn and Zenaida, for Fit Five Friday. Join us!
Have a good weekend!
PS. Please don’t forget my great giveaways.