In our fast-paced, competitive world, we barely take the time to see how we’re doing emotionally and physically. It’s important to set time aside for self-care. Check in with yourself to see if you’re doing okay with these easy practices. You can include them in your daily routine or whenever you have the time.
1. Write A Journal
If you journal regularly, you know that writing is an incredibly freeing exercise. You can put down events, thoughts, memories, and emotions. Often, something that we can’t talk about, comes out quite easily when we write it down. Therapists often use writing therapy to help patients deal with difficult emotions. It can do the same for you. The more you do it, the more you can document your growth over time.
2. Learn To Cook
It’s worth learning some easy, quick recipes that will get you through the week. Cooking for yourself is one of the best ways to take care of your body. You have control over what goes into it, so make sure to feed it with lots of healthy food that will keep you functioning well. Learn to make hearty stews and soups with fresh veg and cook with lots of whole grains.
3. Take A Day To Do Your Chores
If you have a free day, take the time to finish any unfinished chores. Do your laundry, vacuum the house, do some meal prep, and change the sheets in your bedroom. You might work up a sweat but it’ll be worth it. The satisfaction of a clean house will bring peace and you’ll be tired enough to fall asleep without much hassle.
4. Feed Your Inner Child
Too often we ignore the inner child in us. But we also forget that we’re adults. Think of things you used to regularly do as a child and spend some time rediscovering those hobbies. Dance around the living room like no one’s watching. Maybe dabble in some finger painting or pull your mattresses and sheets out and build a fort with a friend.
5. Take A Warm Bath
Of course, you can’t do this too often if you want to do your bit to save water, but when you do, go all out. Light some candles, use some essential oils and get a deep soak. Exfoliate your skin, use a face mask, and do any other skincare rituals that you don’t usually have to time to do.
6. Exercise Regularly
Some form of physical activity is scientifically proven to improve your overall mood.1 Endorphins that get released as a result of exercise can help you feel happier and more relaxed. Not to mention, you’ll feel fitter, and fall asleep much easier.
7. Learn To Say No
If a certain extra task at work or that social gathering you’ve been invited to sounds too stressful, don’t be afraid to refuse. It helps to recognize when enough is enough. If something feels like you’re stretching yourself too thin, give yourself the license to say no. It’s alright.
8. Read Or Watch An Old Favorite
Maybe it’s time to reread that all-time favorite of yours or even pull out that old DVD of your favorite kids’ movie. Research shows that nostalgic feelings can actually help you feel physiological comfort and reduce stress levels.2
9. Cut Down On Screentime
Most people on social media only put up the highlights of their lives which is understandably why scrolling through your feed can make you feel pathetic sometimes. It’s difficult to see their reality through your phone screen. The pressure of only exposing these best parts of you to the world is also another thing that can stress you out. It’s good to unplug for a while from social media and choose to enjoy the moments and people immediately around you.
You’ll notice that once you have these practices in place, you’ll be more in tune with your emotional health.
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