You don’t have to look too long or hard to find product after product marketed for our “self-care routines.” These products often include skin care, nail care, hair care, and so on, all of which subtly claim to be the cure-all for mental health. Now, don’t get us wrong, we love a glass of classic red while we enjoy a hot bubble bath and face mask, but sometimes we need a self-care routine that’s just simpler. Self-care practices vary from person to person so if you feel like your currency routine could use some tweaking, here are some ways you can redefine self-care to make it work for you.
Why Self-Care Matters
Self-care includes your mental, emotional, and physical needs because whether you have a mental illness or not, you have mental health and there are a lot of simple ways that you can tend to your needs that don’t include products, champagne, or bubble baths. Don’t worry, these things can still be a part of your routine, just not the whole routine.
Self-Care Tips
The Usual Suspects
Eat nourishing foods that are good for your body, eat real food instead of so much processed stuff, change how you think about food, and keep in mind that what you eat should be fuel for your body, most importantly, enjoy the food that you’re eating. Step outside for some sunshine and fresh air. Drink water to stay hydrated, and even though you don’t need the fancy cup if the fancy cup will help you up your water intake, then so be it. See? A little treat every now and then is totally justified. And lastly, stretch your body. (Which you can totally do from your bed!)
What’s Up, Doc?
Can’t figure out why you’re always tired? Maybe you’ve got some sniffles that just won’t go away and you’re thinking it’s more of an allergy or sinus thing? Going to see your doctor when you aren’t feeling the best or if you think you may be lacking in nutrients is also a form of self-care.
Take Your Time
Down bad? Take your time to bounce back and give your body the rest it needs before giving 100% of yourself to real life again. This is where the bubble baths and face masks can come in!
As Directed
This one’s pretty self-explanatory, but make sure any prescription medication you are currently taking is being taken as prescribed. If you think there could be an issue with your prescription, make sure to talk to your doctor.
Give Me a Break
Slowing down and decluttering your mind is a great way to take care of your mental health. This can look like reading for fun, journaling, taking a tech break, meditating, or visiting with your therapist. If you have a hard time committing to this, block out a part of your schedule each day for a little rest and relaxation or set an alarm to remind yourself.
Emotionally Check In
Taking care of your emotional health entails checking in with your emotions and learning how to cope healthily with the uncomfortable ones such as anxiety or sadness.
Boundary Setting
Creating boundaries is no easy task, but it is a necessary one. As you begin to realize and recognize your feelings, setting boundaries is a great way to set your limits and show yourself some compassion to keep burnout and anxiety at by and to keep your social battery charged.