A Practice of Self-Care
Introducing the 8 types of self-care
Self-care, this has become a bit of a buzz word which is thrown around without much information or thought behind what it means except it is something we are supposed to be doing. The world health organization defines self-care is the practice of individuals looking after their own health using the knowledge and information available to them. It is a decision-making process that empowers individuals to look after their own health efficiently and conveniently, in collaboration with health and social care professionals as needed.
Self-care is important in that it staves off burnout and allows us to make good decisions about our life and health in a more balanced state of mind. Compare the difference between when choices are made during times of stress, panic or a heightened emotional state versus when we make decisions from a place of calm, strong sense of self and balanced emotions. This is the difference between running our lives in a state of burn out and a state of health.
I have always struggled trying to figure out where to put my efforts into self-care as it seemed so broad. So, I am introducing the 8 areas of self-care along with some possible actions for each area, However, please make your own list!
I am proposing we each chose a minimum of 1 or 2 areas and 1or 2 things we can do in each area in order to start the process of caring for ourselves. Remember this is a progress not perfection activity and adding more to our plate and lives when it is already overwhelming does not help so small baby steps.
Please feel free in the comment section to say what you are going to try, how it is going and what is challenging. You might also share some of your favorite self-care activities in the comments and we can all learn from each other.
Physical
Self-care that has to do with feeling physically well and maintaining physical health.
Hike
Massage
Warm bath
Cuddle with a soft of weight blanket
Massage good smelling lotion or essential oils into your body
Dress comfortably
Go window shopping
Emotional
Self-care that has to do with attending to your emotions; finding empathy and self-compassion; and seeking help when needed.
Talk to a therapist
Journal
Listen to a podcast on mental health or wellness
Creative expression
Time outside
Gratitude practice
Watch a comforting movie or show
Listen to music
Social
Self-care that has to do with healthy family and social relationships.
Join a new group
Go out with friends
Go people watching
Call friends
Create a new ritual for time with a friend
Spiritual
Self-care that has to do with religious beliefs or spirituality.
Meditation
Attend a spiritual/religious meeting
Read something uplifting
Personal
Self-care that has to do with knowing and honoring yourself and what you enjoy.
New hobby
Re-spark an old interest
Cook a nice meal for yourself
Read through old journals to connect with self
Look at pictures old or new to re-spark connection
Home
Self-care that has to do with maintaining a safe, functional, and comfortable home environment.
Simplify things at home
Restock your cupboards and refrigerator
Organize
Redecorate
Rearrange
Add plants
Purging/donating items
Lighting candles
Gardening
Financial
Self-care that has to do with maintaining your financial goals and obligations.
Budgeting
Fun money spending
Financial goals
Look forward to retirement
Save for something fun
Plan a trip
WORK, SCHOOL, CAREGIVING, OR OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES
Self-care that has to do with attending to your needs in the realms of work, school, caregiving, or other responsibilities.
Time management
Redefine productivity
Learning and developing skills (and seeking help when needed)
Healthy work boundaries and communication
Break time
Strive and plan for a healthy work life balance