Self care may feel like another buzz word when talking about wellbeing, and what it truly means can often get lost in translation, resulting in the importance of it not really having much meaning.
When we talk about 'Self', it's the essential part of who we are as individuals, unique in nature and personality. So how you approach self care and other 'self' related behaviours Mindful will be different to anyone else.
The World Health Organisation defines self-care as: “the ability of individuals, families, and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and to cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a healthcare provider.” Asking yourself "How am I today?" and "What matters to me?" with a focus on your Physical, Mental and Emotional health, is a good way to help you work out what Self Care might mean to you. Writing down these questions and your answers, may help you to start working through what you can do to start addressing what you need. It's important to know that what's self care one day may not feel like self care on another, so you may need to ask yourself the above questions on a more regular basis. Checking in on how you are, as you would a family member, friend or colleague.
Starting a Self-Care Routine
To get started, grab a notepad and pen or make some notes on your phone or laptop and answer the questions below...
What activities bring you joy, make you feel uplifted and energised, bring a feeling of balance and ease into your day?
What value and behaviour would you like to include in your routine this week?
How will you start demonstrating your value and behaviour every day for one week?
What are your reflections on how you feel after demonstrating your value and behaviour?
What activity would you like to add next?
If you need a few ideas to help you develop a Self Care routine, why not try the following activities that may give you a boost...
Do a mindful activity when you wake up, focus on your breath, do a short mediation, set an intention for the day,
Make your bed,
Eat breakfast,
Reflect on your day and what you're grateful for each night,
Put your mobile in another room, on silent or airplane mode in the evening and during bedtime,
Kick start a consistent bedtime routine, going to bed and waking up at the same times each day.
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