Most of us are good at caring for the people in our lives whom we love. We’ll go above and beyond to make sure they feel special. But we’re notoriously bad at caring for ourselves. Why is this? And how can we change that?
Well, it starts with simple yet intentional acts of kindness to ourselves. What follows are some helpful self-care tips that you can use to live a happier, healthier life.
Get Enough Sleep
Let’s start with the basics: sleep. You might think that cutting back on sleep gives you a few extra hours to catch up on your tasks, but it actually does more harm than good. When you don’t sleep enough, your body misses out on the time it needs to rest and repair itself.
Everyone wants a sleep hack for feeling more rested, but the best piece of advice is to just get enough sleep. The average person needs at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night. If you have trouble falling asleep, you might want to create a bedtime routine to help you wind down, like reading a book or listening to calm music. You should also make sure your sleep environment is cool, dark, and quiet.
Eat Well
Eating healthy isn’t just about avoiding junk food. You also have to think about what you’re eating. It needs the right balance of nutrients to thrive.
Good food can boost your mood, give you more energy, and help you fight off diseases. So do your best to incorporate more fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your meals. And whenever possible, prepare your own meals, as this helps you control what goes into your food.
Practice Better Bathroom Routines
The bathroom is one of the most intimate places in your home. It’s a little private sanctuary where you get a few minutes by yourself. But are you rushing through your bathroom routines, or do you take time to care for yourself well?
Here are some simple little improvements you can make for better self-care in the bathroom:
- Develop a nightly skincare routine that involves washing your face and then applying some sort of moisturizer. There’s something powerful about working a moisturizer into your face at the end of a long day that tells you you’re worth it.
- Stop relying on toilet paper after you do your business and instead install a bidet toilet seat in your bathroom and give yourself a much better and more comfortable clean. Many bidets have settings where you can change the water pressure and temperature, which makes it great for finding a comfort level that works for you.
- When showering, turn off the lights and light a candle on the bathroom counter. Not only will the smell create a relaxing ambiance, but the soft yellow flicker of the candle will help you take your mind off the troubles of the day.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise is a powerful stress reliever. It improves your physical health and boosts your mood. Plus, it can be a fun way to meet new people and build more social relationships (which is another component of good self-care).
Where should you start? Find activities that you enjoy, whether it’s walking, dancing, biking, or playing sports. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Even a short walk counts, so start small if you’re not used to being active.
Take More Breaks
When you’re busy, it might seem impossible to take a break, but giving yourself time off to relax and recharge is important for your mental health.
Schedule short breaks throughout your day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Step away from your computer, stretch, or go for a walk. These little 10-15 minute pauses can help reduce stress and improve your concentration and mood.
Connect With Others
Spending time with family and friends, meeting new people, or even interacting with pets can improve your mood and reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation.
Make it a point to schedule regular meet-ups with friends or family members. If you’re feeling isolated, try joining clubs or groups that align with your interests. Don’t underestimate the joy pets can bring into your life too. Sometimes, even a quick chat with a neighbor can lift your spirits.
Make Time For Hobbies
Hobbies might not seem like a self-care category at first, but you’d be surprised. A good hobby can help you pass the time and introduce feelings of happiness and excitement. Whether it’s reading, gardening, crafting, drawing, or any other activity that you enjoy – make time for it.
Start Caring For Yourself
Don’t put off self-care at the expense of getting more things checked off your to-do list. Instead, start implementing small self-care habits into your daily routine. You’ll look better, feel better, and have a much greater appreciation for the small things!
