Self care is a very personal thing, and it’s completely different for everyone. Whether it’s reading in the tub or getting a full-body massage, the best self-care is whatever brings you joy and helps you feel relaxed and refreshed.
It also includes activities that mentally stimulate you, like meditation or a 6 a.m. cryotherapy session, as well as socialization and spiritual activities.
1. Take a bath or shower
Taking a bath or shower is an easy way to practice self-care. It can help to relieve stress, improve sleep quality and boost confidence and mood.
It can be difficult to fit self-care into a busy schedule, so it is important to find practices that are realistic for you. Start small and gradually increase the amount of time you devote to these activities.
2. Go for a walk
In these challenging times, it can be easy to forget about self-care. But it’s important to make it a priority.
Walking is a great way to de-stress, exercise, and get a new perspective on your surroundings. It’s also a healthy alternative to driving.
Try listening to a podcast during your walk for extra motivation and relaxation. These self-care tips will help you recharge and stay mentally strong during these tough times.
3. Listen to music
Music has many benefits that can improve your mood, reduce pain and anxiety and lower blood pressure. It can even motivate you to push yourself harder during workouts or get through studying for an exam, Scientific American reports.
But different types of music can affect people in different ways. Pay attention to how certain songs or genres make you feel, and experiment until you find something that helps ease your stress.
5. Get enough sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep is critical to your health and well-being. Ensure you’re getting enough rest by setting a realistic bedtime and making sure your room is conducive to sleeping, such as with dark curtains or a sound machine.
Make self-care a daily habit by engaging in activities that leave you feeling relaxed and energized. “Self care should be a way to recharge your batteries, not drain them,” Kissen says.
6. Exercise
It’s easy to overlook physical self-care, but a well-maintained body is crucial for other dimensions of your health. Exercise doesn’t have to be a workout in the gym – walk or run outside, go bowling or play tennis with friends.
Some physical self-care practices may not be as enjoyable, like prioritizing annual checkups or cooking at home, but they are still important. Find ways to fit these in your schedule.
7. Go to bed early
Self-care can also include eliminating things that drain your energy. “Write down a list of what you want to do less of, and commit to removing those activities from your life,” says Dr. Ackrill.
We live in extra-stressful times, so having a solid self care routine is critical. And it doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive. It could be as simple as opening the blinds in the morning.
8. Take a bath or shower
Adding showering or bathing to your daily self-care routine can help you feel relaxed and energized. Showering or bathing can also help you recognize things that zap your energy and focus, which is a great way to get back on track after a draining day.
When practicing self care, it’s important to find activities that you actually enjoy. This will ensure that you stick with the routine and continue to practice it.
10. Take a bath or shower
There’s an ongoing debate on whether bathing is better than showering, but both are great for hygiene. Besides, you can add some extra pampering by adding things like salts, oils and bubble bath to your daily shower or bath.
Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive, but it should always make you feel better. Taking some time to relax and recharge can be the best way to prepare yourself for the challenges ahead.