Self care as a concept has gained considerable attention these days. Though a lot of people have different definitions of what self care actually means. Simply put it’s an act of care towards your own self.
What one associates as care can be different for different people. For some it can mean taking a day off just to watch your favorite series or read a book, it can also include just applying a sheet mask or any other form of grooming. Some people also like to go to gym, or meet with their friends because that’s what brings them happiness. Whatever act you choose , it should be something that brings you happiness and you enjoy doing that.
WHO has defined self care as the behaviours you do to take care of your own health and it includes hygiene, nutrition, leisure activities sports, exercise , seeking professional healthcare services, etc. Even going to therapy can be considered self care.
It is extremely important if one wants to take care of their mental health. Still a lot of people consider self care as selfish or an act of self indulgence. This is a really big myth. We live in times where anxiety and depression have become extremely common specially after the pandemic. The daily stressors have become too much to deal with. Therefore to deal with these stressors we need self care and other coping strategies. It helps our body to soothe and rejuvenate for the other tasks in hand. Its a way for you to tell your body and mind that you care for it.
Here are somethings you can do to show your body that you care for it
- Prioritize your sleep : We often don’t realize how important sleep is for our mental health. It directly influences our mood and even physical immunity.
- Indulge in some form of physical exercise : Any sort of movement releases feel good hormones that instantly uplifts our mood. It can be the perfect self care one needs.
- Indulge in your hobbies : Doing something you like without any pressure of deadlines or end goal can feel extremely liberating and great for our mental health.
- Go outside for a walk in nature : Studies have shown innumerable benefits of being in nature or just in the outdoors. It’s such a simple act of self care but is the most effective.
- Go out to your favorite restaurant or cafe : Eating food you like can make us feel instantly good. It shouldn’t be done on a regular basis but once in a while a little indulgence is ok.
So make sure that you are giving yourself some time each day even if it’s just for a minutes, doing something you really enjoy and like.
