As someone who has struggled with anxiety for much of my life and more recently increased stress, I know how important it is to prioritise self-care. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life and forget to take care of ourselves. But neglecting our mental health can have serious consequences, both in the short and long term.
Self-care looks different for everyone, but the core idea is to take intentional actions that prioritise our mental, emotional, and physical health. Here are some of the self-care practices that have been helpful for me:
~ Establishing Boundaries: One of the most important self-care practices I've learned is the importance of setting boundaries. I used to say "yes" to everything and everyone, leaving little time for myself. Now, I prioritise my own needs and say "no" to things that don't align with my values or are not in my best interest.
~ Prioritise Sleep: I used to think that staying up late to finish work was a sign of dedication, but I now know that getting enough sleep is crucial for my mental health. I try to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night and prioritise a consistent sleep schedule.
~ Exercise: Regular exercise has been shown to have numerous mental health benefits, including reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. I like to incorporate exercise into my daily routine by taking walks, doing yoga, or going to the gym.
~ Journaling: Writing in a journal has been a helpful tool for me to process my thoughts and emotions. It allows me to get everything out on paper and helps me gain perspective on my situation.
~ Creative Expression: Engaging in creative activities, like drawing or writing, helps me to get out of my head and focus on something positive. It allows me to tap into my creativity and feel a sense of accomplishment.
~ Social Connection: Connecting with others is essential for maintaining good mental health. Whether it's spending time with loved ones, joining a club or group, having positive social connections can greatly improve our mental wellbeing.
~ Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness and meditation has helped me to become more aware of my thoughts and emotions. It helps me to stay grounded in the present moment and not get lost in anxious thoughts about the future or regrets about the past. In particular engaging in this while in nature. Being in nature has a calming effect on me and helps me disconnect from technology and the stresses of daily life.
Self-care is essential for maintaining good mental health. Taking intentional actions to prioritise our mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing can greatly improve our quality of life. It's important to remember that self-care is not selfish, but rather an essential part of taking care of ourselves so that we can show up as our best selves in the world.
Making time for self-care doesn't have to be time consuming or expensive. It can be as simple as taking a few minutes to breathe deeply or stretching throughout the day. The key is to make self-care a regular habit and to find activities that work for you and your lifestyle.
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