Self-care is important to maintain a healthy relationship with yourself, as it produces positive feelings and boosts your confidence and self-esteem. Also, self-care helps to remind us that our needs are important.
Here are a few easy things you can do every day to practice self-care.
Drink a glass of water
Water is essential to our health, so drink a glass whenever you get chance, especially first thing in the morning when you’re likely to be a little dehydrated.
Take a break
Take 5 minutes to decompress every day. Taking time to just breathe and let go is hugely beneficial. Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive, you’ll be amazed how much better you’ll feel by nothing more simple than putting your phone away for a few minutes and just thinking nice thoughts.
Move around
Try to get at least 30 minutes aerobic exercise a day (ideally making yourself out of breath). Exercise is just as beneficial for your mental health as it is for your physical health. Don’t worry, you don’t have to do it all at once, take three 10-minute walks if that’s easier.
Get a good nights’ sleep
During sleep, your brain gets rid of toxins, connects memories and builds neural highways (that’s a good thing apparently). Sleep also keeps your heart healthy, reduces stress and can reduce your risk of depression. Try to average 7 to 9 hours a night and you’ll really feel the benefit.
Light a scented candle
Our sense of smell is very closely linked to our emotional feelings, so find a scent you really like and learn to associate it with feelings of happiness and well-being. After a while, by simply burning the candle you’ll automatically feel good.
Confront any negativity
Be kind to yourself by silencing your inner critic. When negative self-talk rears it’s ugly head, confront it and put a better spin on the situation. Write down your self-doubt and then confront it analytically. Try to forgive yourself for being human and relax your standards just a little.