International self-care day - 24th July 2023
What is self-care?
We all know the importance of self-care and love as part of our overall wellness but most of us still forget to make the time for ourselves, which can lead to burnout, stress, and anxiety. When suffering with chronic pain conditions like endometriosis ensuring that self-care is built into your daily routine is even more important to take care of your mental health (if this is you please read our self-care for chronic illnesses blog).
Self-care is not synonymous with self-indulgence or being selfish. Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health. When it comes to your mental health, self-care can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy. Even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact.
Self-care is anything you do to take care of yourself so you can stay physically, mentally, and emotionally well. Its benefits are better physical, mental, and emotional health and well-being. Research suggests self-care promotes positive health outcomes, such as fostering resilience, living longer, and becoming better equipped to manage stress.
6 Types of self-care
Psychological Self-Care involves learning, thinking, and growing. Psychological self-care activities might include personal and professional development. Give attention to things that are in your control (your sphere of influence). Take time for personal reflection
Emotional self-care means is to become aware of, and identify, what you are feeling, and then allow yourself to lean into the feelings in a way that honors yourself and your emotions. We can try to ignore, deny, and suppress our emotions, but eventually they come out, one way or another
Personal self-care is the practice of looking after and prioritising own mental and physical well-being. Looking after your mental health and physical health. Caring for others in your community, friends and family can help take the focus or fear off yourself and deflect in a healthy manner
Physical self care involves activities that improve your physical health such as diet and exercise. It also means seeing a doctor when you are sick and taking the time to rest. Caring for your physical health might mean eating extra fruit and veggies to fuel your body, as well as staying hydrated
Practicing Professional self-care while at work, and adopting self-care practices that lead to a healthy work-life balance will make you more productive in your career
Spiritual self-care should nurture your spirit and allow you to think bigger than yourself. Spiritual self care does not have to be religious. Examples: Meditation, yoga, going to a place of worship, be in nature, dedicate time for self-reflection
Daily self-care tips
Get regular exercise. Just 30 minutes of walking every day can help boost your mood and improve your health. Small amounts of exercise add up, so don’t be discouraged if you can’t do 30 minutes at one time.
Eat healthy, regular meals and stay hydrated. A balanced diet and plenty of water can improve your energy and focus throughout the day. Also, limit caffeinated beverages such as soft drinks or coffee.
Make sleep a priority. Stick to a schedule, and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Blue light from devices and screens can make it harder to fall asleep, so reduce blue light exposure from your phone or computer before bedtime.
Try a relaxing activity. Explore relaxation or wellness programs or apps, which may incorporate meditation, muscle relaxation, or breathing exercises. Schedule regular times for these and other healthy activities you enjoy such as journaling.
Set goals and priorities. Decide what must get done now and what can wait. Learn to say “no” to new tasks if you start to feel like you’re taking on too much. Try to be mindful of what you have accomplished at the end of the day, not what you have been unable to do.
Practice gratitude. Remind yourself daily of things you are grateful for. Be specific. Write them down at night, or replay them in your mind.
Focus on positivity. Identify and challenge your negative and unhelpful thoughts.
Stay connected. Reach out to your friends or family members who can provide emotional support and practical help.
And our very top tip is remember to always make time for you everyday ❤️ x