Self Care - What Is It Exactly?

Self care is about taking care of yourself and treating yourself as kindly as you treat others. So, why do so many of us put ourselves at the bottom of the list of priorities?
Taking care of ourselves should be at the top of the list since this allows us to be able to care for others better.  It’s not selfish to want to feel amazing. When we’re at our best, we can give our best. Something as simple as taking a class or enjoying a little quiet time a few times a week may be all you need. Find out what you enjoy doing and what recharges you. How can you fit this into your schedule?  Maybe for now, it can only be 30 minutes twice a week, but that’s a start.
 
22 Ways to Take Care of YOU
Check the ones that appeal to you and that you feel you can start with…there’s more on    the next page.    
  1. Get enough sleep
 2. Take the time to prioritize your day each morning (what are the top 2-3 things you want to get done today?).
 3. Remember to schedule things as evenly as possible throughout the week (don’t cram too much into your days)
  4. Reduce time on the computer and TV
  5.  Take deep breaths during the day
  6. Eat more slowly
  7. Connect with family and/or friends
  8. Take vacations (or “staycations”)
  9. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
 10. Make time for yourself
11. Read a book or watch a movie
12.  Exercise
 13.  Speak to yourself more kindly
 14.  Listen to music
 15.  Open your windows and blinds during the day – let in the fresh air and sunshine
 16.  Remember your goals and aspirations
 17.  Enjoy a hot bath
 18.  Meditate and/or do yoga
 19.  Get a massage or facial
 20.  Go on a walk
 21.  Focus on the positive
 22.  Keep a journal
 
To-Do
List all of your commitments and responsibilities. Figure out your biggest cause of stress and look at ways you can reduce it.  Just start with one thing for now if needed.

Evaluate your schedule and see where changes can be made to make things less hectic.

Make sleep a priority and be sure to get the amount you need as often as you can. Notice how you feel when you are more rested.

Look at the list of 22 ideas for self care so you can reduce stress and take care of yourself.  What 3-5 things can you start with for now?