The term “self-care” has been popularized in today’s culture through movies, TV shows, friends, and social media. Many have considered self-care practices as retail therapy, a new haircut, or a glass of wine (or two…) While pampering ourselves can be a form of self-care, we should recognize that the instant gratifications of outward self-care indulgences are usually only temporary.
So what actually is “self-care”? How do we incorporate it into our daily lives? How can we commit to a self-care routine that actually makes us feel good - inside and out?
Self-care is all about building a good relationship with yourself, physically and emotionally. The conversation is bigger than what face mask to use or what color manicure to get. It’s about finding activities that fill your physical and emotional cup, so you can build a consistent routine that fuels you with joy and allows you to be at your best to tackle your goals. After all, we have to be our best to give our best. We don’t deserve to have our cups temporarily filled. We deserve to have consistent physical, mental, and emotional stability in our lives.
Here are a few general ideas to focus on caring for yourself:
- Spend time with people who make you feel your best.
Find those people that make you laugh until your stomach hurts or will happily support you in your journey. The people that have your trust are the best support system. - Practice gratitude.
It doesn't have to be the routine of writing in your journal. It can be as simple as being conscious of your favorite things like making an all-time favorite song playlist or making your favorite home-cooked meal. Include the simple things in your everyday life that you love and that you’re grateful for. - Cut out the toxic stuff.
Yes, this means all the things in your life that no longer serve you: the friendships that cause emotional stress or activities that aren't making you a healthier person. Easier said than done, but you’ll be surprised how letting go of things that aren’t working for you can propel you in the right direction. - Have a change of environment.
Go for a walk somewhere you haven’t explored by moving around the furniture of your room. Your physical space affects your headspace!
By incorporating sustainable, rewarding ways to show up for yourself, we hope you can build a routine to love and care for yourself. Bottom line: Always start with yourself and listen to what your mind, body, and heart need. What are your favorite ways to practice self-care?
