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Self-care is widely overlooked but it is just as important as anything else in our daily routines. If you are ever feeling stressed, sad, or overwhelmed (and seemingly for no reason), it is good to reflect if you have been neglecting your self-care.

Before diving into it, it is critical that you understand that self-care is not impossible, nor is it selfish. Self-care ensures that you are your most capable self – emotionally, mentally, and physically. There is always time for self-care, no matter how busy you might be. 

According to Very Well Mind (2022), there are 5 forms of self-care:

  1. Physical 🡪 Maintaining good Nutrition, Sleep, and Exercise
  2. Social 🡪 Strengthening your relationships
  3. Mental 🡪 Enriching your mind, staying inspired
  4. Spiritual 🡪 Praying, feeling fulfilled in life
  5. Emotional 🡪 Opting for healthy coping mechanisms 

From or beyond the list, you are free to choose any form of self-care that works for you and makes you happy! What do you define as rest and relaxation? What calms you, what brings you joy, what helps you take your mind off things? Take some time to think about it.

Moving on, now that we know what self-care is, let’s take some time for reflection.

Here are some things to ponder:

1. How is my mental health? (How am I doing right now, at this moment?)

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2. Is there anything I need? (i.e., Am I thirsty, hungry, or sleepy?)

    1. Drink more water (You might not be drinking enough, even if you think you are!)
    2. Think: Have I been eating healthily? Are my portions too small/big? Have I been overeating or overindulging in junk food?
    3. Try to sleep 6 to 8 hours a day and avoid oversleeping

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3. What can I do to improve my well-being today?

    1. Engage in self-care
    2. Take a warm bath
    3. Engage in a skincare routine
    4. Treat yourself to something you enjoy every week (e.g., you’re your favorite sweet treat or bubble tea!)
    5. Engage in your hobbies (e.g., watch your favorite TV show, Netflix series, or play your favorite computer or phone games!) 
    6. Bonus: Play some card or board games with your family or friends!
    7. Take a walk every day, do some stretching, or meditation! It’s good to keep your body moving, but if you feel worn out, taking a nap is great self-care too!

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*Note: As you continue to engage in self-care, try asking yourself how you can improve your well-being every month. This will allow you to keep a consistent self-care routine!

Wishing you a successful yet restful and fun remainder of the year! 

 

References

Scott, E. (May 23, 2022). 5 Self-Care Practices for Every Area of Your Life. Verywell mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/self-care-strategies-overall-stress-reduction-3144729