Self-care isn’t just about getting into a bubble bath with a face mask on. It is about being intentional about taking care of all aspects of your health, be it physical, mental, social, and emotional.
Here are some self-care examples:
Physical – Sleep, drinking enough water, regular exercise, physical therapy if needed, going outside for fresh air, stretching, deep breathing, meditation/yoga
Emotional – Lowering stress, being grateful, journaling, me-time, doing hobbies, laughing, smiling
Mental – Reading, putting down technology (digital detoxes!), setting goals, meditating, telling yourself positive affirmations (more information on this in future blog!)
Social – Time with friends and family, being present and mindful in the moment
Health – Less sugar and caffeine, vitamins, taking medication as prescribed, healthy foods, doctor check-ups, hygiene, exercise
An exercise we did in my group one week was to build a “Self-Care Garden”. This consisted of the seeds you want to plant (positive self-care that we are keeping), weeds we want to eliminate (harmful practices and habits), and what we want to grow (what to add in the future).
| Seeds What are we keeping? -sleeping well -going outside -exercise -drinking water -eating healthy foods -deep breathing -mindfulness | Weeds What don’t we want to keep? -Not sleeping or eating well -drama -toxic relationships -junk food -caffeine -not sleeping | Plants What do we want to improve? -more energy -more happiness -feel healthier -better confidence -better relationships |
Here is a picture of our self-care garden!
Now that you have planted your garden, set an intention for self-care one day this week. Comment your intention for this week!
Caroline Hubschman, LSW 