57 Ways to Self-Care
Self-care can be defined as “The practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's own health. The practice of taking an active role in protecting one's own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress.” Over the past several years, “self-care” has become quite the buzzword, and rightfully so! However, I have found that people often seem to overcomplicate self-care, which makes it seem like an unachievable task. I frequently talk with my client’s about the beauty of adding “small” acts of self-care into their everyday routine, and challenge them to set aside a few minutes a day to do these things intentionally. I have seen decreased stress levels in my personal life and in the lives of those I work with when we are able to invest in things that fuel us.
57 Types of Self-Care
Make routine physical/mental health appointments
Spend time in nature
Take time off when needed
Drink water
Check in with yourself and monitor for burnout
Meditate
Gratitude Journal
Get a manicure or pedicure
Get your hair done
Have a meal or coffee with a friend
Take your medication/vitamins
Pray
Meal prep
Do healthy movement
Take a bubble bath
Eat nourishing meals
Go for a walk
Keep your living space clean
Listen to a podcast
Read a book
Talk to a friend/family member
Listen to your favorite music
Do breathwork
Do your skincare routine
Get a few minutes of sunshine
Visit coffee shops
Take a day to schedule nothing
Surround yourself with people that you feel safe/happy with
Cook a home-cooked meal
Put on make-up
Write a letter
Journal
Learn something new
Have a stay-cation
Have a few moments of silence
Join a community of like-minded people
Play with your pet
Play a game
Paint
Build or create something
Keep a “sunshine folder” to reflect on positive memories or “wins”
Yoga
Take a nap
Go on a vacation
Change out of work clothes when you get home
Use positive affirmations
Take breaks throughout the day
Coloring
Take the dog for a walk
Bake
Have a treat
Have a cup of warm tea
Jiu Jitsu
Get a tattoo
Go for a drive
Guided journaling
Brush your hair
These are just a few examples of what self-care looks like. I encourage you to take a personal inventory of what fuels you and drains you. Then consider how you can add more opportunities to fuel your soul into your everyday life. Sometimes it may be standing in the sunshine, baking sourdough bread, talking to an old friend, or spending a few moments in silence. Do not be so quick to dismiss the small things, because several small things can grow into a beautiful garden of self-care practices.
Consider partnering with myself or one of our other qualified clinicians to discover what a life of less stress and more self-care could look like for you!
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