Self-care is any activity that keeps you physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy. In our society, we often think that taking time for ourselves is selfish and maybe even lazy. Our culture applauds working long hours, skipping vacation days, and pushing our minds and bodies beyond their limits. But taking time to refresh and rejuvenate is critical for both our productivity and the overall enjoyment of our lives.
When we do not take time for ourselves, we are more susceptible to burnout, depression, anxiety, and many other negative consequences. Decades of research have shown that engaging in a regular self-care routine reduces stress, improves focus and creativity, and reduces anger and resentment.
Committing to taking care of ourselves begins with an awareness of how our daily actions impact our physical, mental, and emotional needs. You might think of it as how to show that we value ourselves in a way that can be an example to others.
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What Does Self-Care Include?
Having a healthy sleep routine
Eating foods that give us the energy to perform well and support a healthy body
Drinking enough water to eliminate toxins and support the regulation of our body’s processes and systems
Having a regular exercise routine that is a priority
Treating ourselves with compassion and kindness
The list of activities that might be considered self-care is long because each of us is unique and has specific needs. Anything you do that promotes your physical, mental, and emotional health might be considered self-care. If you think that you might not be taking as good care of yourself as you should, take a moment to reflect on these questions:
What activities in the normal course of my day are just for me?
When was the last time you said no to something or someone to make time for something important to your physical, mental, or emotional well-being?
What do your inner voice and feelings say about doing things for yourself?
Do you prioritize spending time with those whose company you enjoy?
Do you make time for things that inspire you or bring you joy?
Breaking out of old patterns that no longer serve us is difficult. However, the first step is awareness of what promotes self-care and what doesn’t. Self-care can have a tremendous impact on the quality of your life, but it requires a commitment to actively invest in your well-being. Start the journey today by paying attention to your body. Take moments to check in and ask, “what is the best choice for me at this moment?”