Establish Self Care Routines and Habits
Schedule Time For Your Self
An important habit for Self Care Givers involves setting aside specific times of the day or week to focus on our own needs.
It can include activities like exercise, meditation, reading, or anything that brings us joy and relaxation.
Change Happens Over Time
Begin with incorporating one Self Care activity into your daily routine and gradually increase it as you see fit. You can start with a walk around the block, a light workout, a guided meditation, an online course, a tea break, etc.
Make it a priority and schedule your Self Care routine like you would schedule any other appointment, put it in your calendar and make sure you stick to it.
Hint: Choose activities that you enjoy and will genuinely look forward to, or a passion that you have always wanted to do or resume doing.
Determine Boundaries
Setting boundaries involves knowing our limits and communicating them to others openly; this can prevent fatigue and increase productivity.
It can include saying no to requests that do not align with your priorities, taking breaks when needed, and disconnecting from work or caregiving duties when you need time for yourself.
Identify Priorities
Determine what is most important to you and set boundaries accordingly. If there is a time crunch, simply state a realistic date of availability or an estimated date to readdress it.
Be Honest
Communicate your boundaries clearly and assertively to others. There is no need to make excuses; just politely decline
Be Assertive
Hold yourself accountable for maintaining your boundaries and don't let others guilt-trip you into overextending yourself.
Practice Gratitude Daily
Begin with focusing on one thing you are grateful for each day and gradually increase it. Be specific about what it is you are grateful for and why it matters to you.
By counting your Blessings and being thankful for what you have, it enhances your mood and reduces stress. In challenging situations, look for the the Silver Lining as often it is revealed in Hindsight.
Some recommended practices are Journaling, Meditating, or simply taking a few minutes each day to Reflect on your experiences and take a Daily Inventory of the positive aspects and the lessons learned.
If any task feels like a chore, turn it into a game and reward your Self with some Self Care before, during and/or after.
It a specific task becomes overwhelming and causes major distress then it may be appropriate to seek help, guidance or assistance.
Connect With Others
Spending time with friends, family or social networks can reduce feelings of depression and improve mental health when the relationships are healthy and uplifting.
Seeking out like-minded people who share similar interests and values are more likely to provide meaningful social connections that stimulate growth and creativity.
Make an effort to connect with others on a regular basis, even if it is just a quick phone call or text message once a week.
Practice active listening by being present and fully engaged in the conversation; asking clarifying questions demonstrates your interest level.
Key Take Aways
Practice Self Care daily by scheduling an activity you enjoy, setting boundaries, connecting with others and taking a moment to reflect on what you're thankful for today as it can reduce stress, enhance your mood and increase your energy.
Self Care is not a luxury but a necessity.
Self Care Givers provides many insights on ways to incorporate Self Care but it begins with you scheduling time for your Self and prioritizing your needs and completing a Self Care plan.
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