Taking steps to prioritize self-care can help you feel more relaxed and grounded. This can include scheduling moments alone to ponder the best ways to move forward and stay grounded or taking time with friends to feel more connected.
Self-care can also be something as simple as eating healthy. Ensure that you’re getting enough sleep, nourishing your body with the right foods, and removing things from your life that drain your energy.
1. Exercise
Physical self-care can be as simple as getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and exercising. It can also include taking on hobbies that make you feel happy.
You don’t have to spend hours at the gym to get your exercise; just find something that you enjoy, and do it regularly. You’ll be glad you did! Exercise boosts your mood and increases your energy.
2. Drink plenty of water
Adding this to your daily routine can help improve both your physical and mental health. It can also help prevent fatigue and encourage better moods.
Drinking plenty of water can make you feel happier and calm. You can try flavored packets to make it more fun, or link it with an already existing habit, like drinking a glass of water before meals or every time you brush your teeth.
3. Eat healthy
Getting enough fuel is another critical self care practice, as it can help you think more clearly and mitigate mood swings. Instead of grabbing sugary snacks, which can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, pack healthy foods like bananas with peanut butter or veggies and hummus. A regular sleep schedule is also important for both mental and physical health. It can help reduce stress, boost your mood and improve your memory.
4. Sleep well
Getting enough sleep has been shown to help boost your immune system. So if you’re worried about catching a cold or flu this season, be sure to prioritize sleeping well.
Creating a winding down routine and sticking to it will allow you to get enough restful ZZZs. Sleep is key to reducing stress, improving mood, and increasing productivity, motivation, and energy.
5. Take a bath or shower
Baths are luxurious and fun, and they can help you relax. Showers are more convenient, but they can also be relaxing.
Self care is a broad term that can include any activity that makes you feel good. It could be something simple like buying yourself a coffee or something more complex, such as decluttering your home.
Adding it to your routine can boost your mental health and reduce stress. Then you can focus on the things that bring you joy.
6. Get a massage
A massage is more than just a treat, it can also help to relieve stress and boost energy levels. Try adding this to your self care routine.
As a massage therapist, I love teaching my clients about different kinds of self-care. One thing I suggest is to write down things that bring you joy—whether it’s the color purple or a back rub from a friend.
7. Listen to music
Listening to music can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and promote relaxation. It can also be used as a tool to connect with others and feel a sense of belonging.
Try starting with a song that reflects your current emotions and then gradually modulating it toward livelier or soothing tunes to work your way toward your ideal mood state.
8. Take a walk
Walking is a low-impact exercise that can boost your mood, burn calories and improve your overall fitness. Plus, it’s a great way to spend time with a friend or loved one.
Try to walk outdoors, and plan to go on different routes for variety. Be sure to keep your safety in mind when you’re walking alone, and choose safe, well-lit areas.
9. Listen to a podcast
Podcasts are a great way to learn and can help you feel calmer and more focused. They can also boost productivity and reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels (2020).
It’s hard to focus on self care when you’re feeling overwhelmed by negative headlines, political infighting, or international crises. Take a break from the news by listening to a lighthearted or funny podcast.
10. Go to bed early
Taking the time to get into a consistent bedtime routine is one of the best self care practices out there. This can help improve your mental clarity, productivity, and energy levels.
It’s also a good idea to stop consuming the news — even just for the night — as it can be stress inducing. Instead, try reading a book or doing some gentle exercises.