People rarely make time for self-care.
In fact, in the United States adults say they only feel relaxed approximately 40 minutes per day, on average, with 47% claiming they get even fewer minutes of peace than that, according to a study by OnePoll on behalf of Sensodyne.
We are constantly on the go, working, taking care of others, or being consumed in technology, the social media “zombie scroll,” and we do not prioritize self-care. The idea of self-care can mean various things but it is important because it ultimately helps us balance life when things become difficult.
Daily self-care is important to recharge and reset. It can be as little as a couple of minutes a day. It is essential to not only our physical, but mental well-being.
Self-care can come in many forms, whether it be physical, mental, spiritual, social, or emotional.
10 Steps to Better Self-Care
1. EXERCISE
Doing 30 minutes of exercise is just as good for your mental health as it is for your physical health. It doesn’t have to be going to the local gym, it could be as simple as going for a walk. Set a goal for whatever it is you want to do.
Sometimes taking the time for yourself is setting a goal, and getting to feel accomplished when you achieve it. Nurturing your goals is nurturing your mind.
2. DIET
Take care of your body by feeding it properly. Eat balanced meals and make healthy food choices that make your body feel good. Make sure you are getting adequate energy needs from your food and in the right forms.
Use your “self-care time” to cook and drink your fluids. Skipping out on these does not benefit your body or mind in the long run.
3. SLEEP
Many of us do not prioritize sleep. It is important to your body for it to function properly, mentally, and recover itself physically. It could be as simple as shutting down the electronics when you go to bed, turn off your phone, tv, or any forms of distractions that keep our brain going. 
Put on some light music or meditation to wind down. Make your bedroom your place of serenity.
4. MIND.
Your headspace can affect your overall day. A busy mind can often be a distraction and we need to learn to decompress during some points in the day and process. Self-care can be anything you enjoy that you can do to give your mind a break such as reading, meditating, journaling, or hobbies you enjoy.
5. POSITIVITY Going out of our way to be more positive helps not only us, but those around us. This will help change our environment in the right way. Even when life isn’t going your way, find a positive in the day and appreciate what you do have going for you. Practice gratitude. By expressing appreciation we naturally ground ourselves.
6. GRATITUDE
Enjoy the little things.
It could be something like your:
- accomplishments
- morning cup of coffee
- family
- burning a favorite candle
- watching a favorite TV show
- go into nature
- catching up on your tasks
7. TRY SOMETHING NEW
When people think self-care their mind usually goes to relaxation like the spa, this isn’t always the case.
Relaxation can come in many forms so maybe try something you haven’t tried before. It could be reading a new book, or trying a new hobby, or a new place to eat. Find something that soothes your mind and soul.
8. GO OUTSIDE
Spending time outside in nature can boost your overall mood. It reduces your stress, and encourages you to live in the moment. Getting fresh air is also beneficial to your health!
Take a walk, a hike, or even just sit outside.
9. SET BOUNDARIES
Say no to others. Say yes to self-care. Sometimes we feel obligated to please everyone around us and lose sight of our own well-being.
We can often take on too many tasks, overwhelm ourselves, and deplete our energy reserves. Saying “Yes!” to everyone and everything can lead to burnout. Learn to politely say, “No” and set healthy boundaries.
10. GET ORGANIZED
Clutter can create stress. There have been numerous studies on it, and figuring out exactly what we need to do or at least having a plan can help lower our stress. Prioritizing the clean up of clutter and putting things in their place can help our days run more smoothly and can be a significant de-stressor.
63 percent of Americans find home organization to be a significant de-stressor. – A OnePoll survey conducted on behalf of mDesign, showed that
These 10 ways to better self-care are all inter-connected because when you exercise, you want to eat right. When you prioritize , you are more apt to say no to things because you are more organized. This makes you sleep better, and in turn you will be well rested to start your day and in a more positive mindset. You will have the time and mental capacity to practice gratitude.
All of these dots connect when you start prioritizing self-care. When all of your dots are connected, then you are finally able to fire on all cylinders and start to become the best version of yourself.
By Meghan Cool, B.A.S, Zero Doubt Club Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach
