When I first started trying to figure out how to “self-care,” there was literally so much information out there! What was I supposed to do with all of this? I scoured the internet, all the books, and every other resource I could find to try and get a good handle on what I was doing.
It took so much time, and what I eventually discovered is that self-care is so individualized, and it changes all the time. After years of building and implementing my own self-care plan, I have discovered that there are a few things that most people can start with that will ensure success, and those don’t change. I put all of those things together in a handy dandy one-sheet reference for you!
HYDRATE: Drink enough water! Nope, coffee doesn’t count. :) Good rule of thumb is half your body weight in ounces (150 lbs = 75 ounces) daily.
SLEEP: Without enough sleep,our bodies won’t function! To get the recommended 6 to 8 hours, go to bed at the same time every night and turn off the electronics.
BREATHE: 10 deep breaths is a great way to calm ourselves, relieve anxiety, and re-center. Breathe in through your nose and release the whole breath through your mouth.
SILENT REFLECTION: Time spent in silence can plug us back in to our inner selves. Spending time in prayer, meditation or other reflection is great for the soul! Try it for 15 to 30 minutes daily.
MOVEMENT: Get that body moving and those endorphins flowing! Dance around the house, go for a walk with your pup, or lift weights in your living room. Make it work for you!
LAUGH: Laugh it up! Save a link to a cute cat video, call someone who makes you belly laugh, listen to a great comedy podcast. Laugh harder than you thought possible.
REACH OUT: Allies are so important in self-care. Communicate with people you trust, and reach out when you need to. Let them know their support means so much.
SET BOUNDARIES: Boundaries are hard, but necessary. Boundaries can include sleeping when tired, saying no, or ending toxic relationships. Once you set a boundary, respect it. It will serve you well!
WRITE IT DOWN: Make a list! Here are some ideas: 5 things you are grateful for, 5 things you are proud of, 5 things you are working toward, or 5 goals you have achieved. Make a list daily, weekly, or any time you need a pick me up.
I know we all “know” to do these things, but when you are trying to work through a huge change, prioritize yourself for the first time, or are living through a period of stress, it can be easy to forget where to start. Take care of yourself first, and the rest will get taken care of. What item on this list are you most excited about working on? What’s the hardest one for you to remember? I’d love to chat about it or hear about it in the comments!
