Self-care is essential for maintaining and promoting overall well-being. It involves deliberate actions and practices that individuals undertake to take care of their physical, emotional, and mental health. Devika Mankani, Holistic Psychologist, Fortes Education & The Hundred Wellness Centre and Co-Founder at Chearful.com gives us tips and strategies for individuals to practice self-care and prioritize their mental well-being in their daily lives.
1. Create and Prioritize Rituals: Create a daily schedule that includes time for work, relaxation, exercise, and sleep. Having a routine can provide structure and stability to your day.
2. Set Emotional and Physical Boundaries: Clearly define boundaries between work, personal life, and social commitments. Learning to say no when necessary can prevent burnout.
3. Regular Movement and Exercise: Physical activity can release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Or just dance!
4. Conscious Consumption: This includes a Healthy Diet as we all know balanced diet can have a significant impact on your mood and energy levels. Try to eat a variety of nutritious foods and stay hydrated. However, being conscious about “things” and focusing more on needs with a few wants rather than getting sucked into constant material pursuits.
5. Adequate Restorative Sleep: Prioritize sleep by aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Poor sleep can negatively affect your mental well-being and decision making.
6. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness techniques or meditation to reduce stress and increase self-awareness. It can help you stay present and manage anxiety.
7. Stay Connected: Maintain relationships with friends and family. Social support is essential for mental well-being.
8. Limit Screen Time: Excessive screen time, especially on social media, can contribute to stress and anxiety. Set limits on your digital consumption. I know most of use may not want to hear this but it is absolutely true.
9. Hobbies and Interests: Engage in activities you enjoy and are passionate about. Hobbies provide a sense of fulfillment and can serve as a healthy distraction.
10. Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist, counselor, or mental health professional. They can provide valuable guidance and support.
11. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Don’t be too hard on yourself for mistakes or setbacks. Treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer to a friend.
12. Journaling: Keeping a journal can help you express your thoughts and feelings, providing a sense of relief and clarity.
13. Limit News Consumption: Constant exposure to negative news can increase stress and anxiety. Stay informed, but set limits on how much news you consume.
14. Learn Stress Reduction Techniques: Explore techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or neuro/biofeedback to shift your state.
15. Nature and Fresh Air: Spend time in nature or simply get some fresh air. It can have a calming effect and improve your mood.
Remember that self-care is an individual process and decision. What works best for one person may differ from another. It’s important to experiment with these strategies and tailor them to your own needs and preferences. Regular self-care can help you maintain good mental health and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.