Practical ways to take care of yourself and to treat yourself as kindly as you treat others.
Self care is care provided ‘for you by you’. It’s about identifying your own needs and taking steps to meet them. It is taking the time to do some of the activities that nurture you. Self care is about taking proper care of yourself and treating yourself as kindly as you treat others.
Why it is important to take care of yourself
When we’re stressed or busy, caring for ourselves is usually put on hold, but that can
make things worse. It is important to maintain a healthy relationship with yourself.
Neglecting to prioritise yourself, you risk losing your energy and momentum and it may affect your relationships with friends and family. Sometimes this leads to you being disconnected from your community and the people who can support you.
Taking care of yourself helps with:
- Maintaining a healthy relationship with yourself, sometimes called self-love.
- Your physical health as well as your mind, soul and, let’s face it, your overall health.
- Making you feel more effective and energetic. When you avoid things that make you feel physically and mentally well, you deplete your confidence and self-esteem.
- Setting functional boundaries to take care of yourself. This shows others that they too need to put themselves first and not overextend or overwork.
Looking after ourselves is just as important as looking after others. To help reduce the negative effects of stress and worry, take time out for yourself or try something new.
7 ways you can practice self care
- Stay connected with your community - Meet with your family or friends in person or online.
- Have fun - Take the time to do things that make you feel happy or good about yourself. Put it in your calendar!
- Take care of yourself physically - Try to maintain a healthy diet, drink water regularly and exercise when you can.
- Make sure you get enough rest - Sleep improves memory, sharpens attention and reduces stress.
- Know when to say no - If you are stressed or overwhelmed, understand that it's ok to change plans and share your feelings.
- Give yourself a pat on the back - Celebrate and acknowledge the good things about yourself and your achievements. No matter how small these things may be, they are what make you, you!
- Surround yourself with great people.