The subject of self care to some seems overrated, while to others, it seems too simple until they really suffer burn out and can’t figure what to do, then they realise it’s not just another trending topic but an essential.
Self care is any activity we involve in deliberately to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. In order words, you must show same kindness to yourself as you do others.
Self care is a learned, purposeful and continuous function. It is essentially knowing when to withdraw, take a break when the need arises and give yourself a treat, which may range from the simplest act of taking a nap to a more important and planned act like going on a vacation.
In self care, you need to set boundaries for yourself. You cannot be a macho in everything, else you risk breaking down.
BENEFITS OF SELF CARE
- Productivity: Research shows that when you are in a good and healthy mood, you achieve more in less time. You make time for things that matter (putting your goals in focus)
- Healthy immune system: according to research, most self-care activities activate your parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), which implies that your body gets into a restful, revitalized form, which helps it to fortify its immune system.
- Self awareness: spending ‘me moments’ with yourself helps you discover more about yourself. You are likely to come to terms with the varying discoveries, get familiar with yourself and thus extend love and also helps you explore your full potentials.
- Positivity: when you observe self care, it produces positive feelings. These feelings help boost your self-esteem or how you value yourself. Whether you decide to journal or dance daily, you’ll feel good. And the more you do these, the more you feel good, which in turn increases your self worth.
SOME SELF CARE CHECKLIST
- Take a deep breath
- Create and schedule a new daily habit.
- See movies or videos that motivate or speak to your soul.
- Journaling is a soothing and creative way to self care. You will enjoy it. Write down anything, from the mundane to the serious.
- Dance like you owe no one any explanation.
- Take a 5 to 10 minutes walk daily.
- Drink enough water each day. Health professionals usually recommend about 2 litres a day.
- Laugh. It’s therapeutic.
- Detox with Rida bitters.
Remember, you cannot give to others what you do not have. It is only after you have mastered the art of loving yourself that you can truly love others. So take care of yourself.
