Self care has become a trending topic where people are getting more into it, as a result businesses are getting richer selling all forms of wellness products. It is sad to see people not taking care of themselves thinking that they need money to get into it. Did you know that a 5 minute morning meditation or even a long hot shower is among the free examples of self care?
I tend to believe that self care activities are holistic practices from within, rather than things that make you feel better after spending an unbelievable amount of money. A holistic practice should not be confused as something spiritual, it is an approach that takes care of your mind, body and spirit at the same time.
Self care ideas may vary from one person to another. What you find mindful and relaxing for you might be exhausting to someone else. This is why I have shared several top self care tips hoping that I cover everyone’s interest. They are grouped into three:
Mind: Mental and Emotional Self care ideas
Body: Physical Self care ideas
Soul: Inner Self and Spiritual Self care ideas
What is Self care?
Self care is the practice of intentionally finding out what your needs are, in a healthy manner and fulfilling them to boost your well-being. A complete self care routine should leave you feeling happy and more energized. It should also involve all three aspects: mental, physical and emotional well-being.
MIND: Mental and Emotional Self Care Ideas
In a world full of responsibilities, we might forget to take care of our mental and emotional well being. As a result, we end up feeling burn out, constant depression and anxiety. Taking 10 minutes a day to practice self care for your mental health can make a big difference in your life, literally! The benefits span from reduced stress, better self awareness, mental clarity, inner peace, positive mindset and even emotional balance.
Examples of self care to nourish the mind include:
- Getting up early and having a morning routine. Our bodies naturally love routine, but you have to find one that works for you rather than causing a burnout. Waking up early could be anywhere you find comfortable: 5am, 7am, 8am, just make sure to have a few minutes alone to connect with yourself and prepare for the day. I have an article written on A Good Morning Routine Checklist, have a look to find a daily habit that can make your mornings special.
- Sparing 5 minutes a day to practice mindfulness and meditation The stillness helps to clear the mind and bring a state of calmness. I like watching Boho Beautiful Yoga for guided meditation. She has many videos on how to meditate to clear your mind and start new positive habits.
- Journaling. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help regulate emotions. It also helps identify what you are grateful for and what areas need change in your life. Self care Journal ideas include; Using a pen and paper rather than a phone or tablet. Journaling early in the morning or at the end of the day when you have a clear mind. Not just focusing on what is wrong but also writing down about things that you are grateful for. Brain dumping with no distractions.
- Read a self help book at least 10 minutes a day or listen to a podcast. Not only fiction books or documentaries on crime podcasts, but also self help genres. Something that will boost personal development and self growth.
- Set boundaries. Learn how to say no when needed.
- Practice daily affirmations. Be kind to yourself and say positive things.
- Call a family member or bestfriend. If you are an introvert and don’t feel like calling, send a message and try catching up with them. This helps to reduce stress just by sharing experiences.
- Declutter your space. A clean space equals a clean mind. You can’t be going around practising self care with a room looking messed up or a work desk screaming for help.
- Take a social media detox. If its not possible, try not using your phone the first half hour after waking up. This will make you connect with your surroundings. The internet tends to give you a strike in dopamine and it is easy to get carried away.
BODY: Physical Self Care Ideas
I love physical movements for self care. At the end of each session I always find myself feeling more energized, confident and healthy. Without a doubt, it will be hard not to share that after mindful movements, I always feel that am in a better mental state.
Physical self care includes exercises, nutrition and relaxation, the results are impressive. Boosted energy levels, better sleep quality, improved body flexibility, good posture, nice body physic, stronger immune system, reduced aging symptoms and so much more.
Self care ideas to nurture the body include:
- Skincare and beauty routine. This goes with personal preference and budget. If you do not want to spend any money, make homemade body scrubs with coffee and sugar. Apply lemon on your underarms to get rid of dark armpits. There are so many tricks on the internet and Pinterest, make these platforms your best friend.
- Practice yoga, pilates or gym work out. This will boost your confidence and improve your posture. I watch Move with Nicole for at home pilates just to save money and avoid unnecessary spending.
- Drink enough water, infuse it with lemon or cucumbers to give it the spa feeling, flush out toxins and add important minerals in your body. Make cloves tea everyday and drink it to smell good from the insides, that is a tip for the ladies.
- Eat healthy. Balance out your meals, breakfast is the most important meal, do not forget fruits.
- Dress your body type and invest in the right clothes. Do not just buy clothes for the sake of it. Find outfits that boast your body type.
- Have enough sleep. Maintain a sleep routine or rather schedule. Sleep is important as when you are well rested, you feel more energized and of course get rid eye bags.
- Ice cold face baths. Dip your face in a bowl of ice cold water every week to reduce puffiness, improve circulation, reduce pore size and even make your face glow.
- 10 minute walks. Go for walks every evening, or three times a week to help with digestion, bloating and also just to clear your mind.
SOUL: Inner Self and Spiritual Self Care Ideas
Spiritual and inner self care goes beyond religious practices, for the most part, it is all about connecting with your inner self and the world around you . This focuses on self love, mindfulness, listening to your intuition and finding inner peace. When you learn how to nurture your soul by practicing self care, you tend to feel more balanced, aligned with the things around you and even feel connected with your feminine energy.
- Create a cozy space in a corner in your home that you can sit and relax in. This could be filled with books, or anything that you like that makes you feel relaxed and happy.
- Learn new hobbies: Gardening, Painting, Knitting, Dancing in front of a mirror or taking a class.
- Try a new recipe or meal. Identify what is your signature meal. Make cocktails. Buy a recipe book or look at free recipes online.
- Practise Sensual activities like taking long baths or lighting a candle
- Connect with nature by walking barefoot in the park or your garden. Step outside and take the morning sun in while taking deep breaths.
- Going to the beach or even the mountains.
- Relax when needed. Give yourself breaks and no work days just to slow down.
- Adopt a plant. Having a plant to take care of, one that needs bare minimum attention, will make you feel connected to something.
Conclusion on Self care
Overall, having read all the above tips, does not mean that you need to rush your journey into self care. It is not a one time thing but rather a lifestyle. Pick the top 5 ideas that you resonate with and try them without pushing yourself.
Without a doubt, ensuring a proper self care routine and constant personal development, you will get to connect with people better and appreciate the life that you have. Of course, while working on yourself continuously.
