20 Self Care Examples That Meet YOUR Needs
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Self Care
is having an absolute moment right now.
The idea is everywhere from a quick scroll through instagram to covers of magazines. Despite our current obsession with self-care, we need to pause and ask ourselves, “are we doing self care right?”
what actually is self-care?
In essence, self-care is deliberate time dedicated to your health, whether that’s physical, emotional, mental, or a combination. It’s the active role you take to improve or maintain your health. In fact, self-care is actually a requirement to the holistic approach to health (Eliopoulos, 2017).
However, there’s a misconception that self care has to be soothing and feminine like a lavish bubble bath or day at the spa. While I am a huge advocate for a candle lit bath after a long day, that bath is not serving you if you are soaking in self-criticism or can’t seem to put your mental to-do list on hold.
The beauty of self-care is that it is whatever you, your body and mind need to show up for yourself, your loved ones, and the world. It is your time to decompress and connect with yourself. Self care doesn’t have to be expensive, extreme, or what the capitalist market is telling you it is. It can mean attending a feminist march or saying no to a girls night out to rest.
practice makes perfect
Another important thing to understand is it’s called self-care practices because just like any other practice- soccer practice or yoga practice….it’s a practice! You will know what works for you and if you feel more relaxed, centered, and full.
The point is, find out what works for you and try incorporating a self-care practice everyday by working it into your morning and/or nighttime routine. I’m excited to share my favorite “go-to” practices, but experiment so you have your own toolbox to reach into.
Self Care Tips for YOUR Needs. Do you:
need to quiet your mind from the noises of everyday life?
Go for a walk, preferably in nature where you can feel the earth under your feet and sun on your face.
Practice mindfulness or try meditation. If sitting alone in silence seems too intimidating, start with the calm app or a guided meditation on youtube. Meditation is a practice in itself, so be easy on yourself if you’re a beginning.
Take a relaxing and calming yoga class like yoga Nidra or Yin Yoga.
Curl up with your fuzziest blanket on the couch with a new book or magazine.
Listen to calming music and journal about anything.
Have a date with yourself where you cook a nourishing meal and work on mindful eating.
….yes a candlelit bubble bath can work wonders to calm your nervous system. Get the candles, bath salts, essential oils, and soak in sister.
SAY NO to a social event and binge watch your favorite series on Netflix. Just remember to stay present. The point isn’t to shut off your brain, but if you feel “cared for” instead of disconnected and boggy, go for it.
need to feel inspired?
Pick a live music show, a few girlfriends and dance your heart out.
Channel your inner-millennial Martha Stewart and start a DIY craft, recipe, drawing, or painting.
Sign up for a group fitness class with your favorite instructor. I always love an upbeat, inspiring spin class to get the booty moving and feel the jams.
Remember that new restaurant, coffee shop or museum you have been dying to try? Plan a date with yourself, take your time and take it all in.
Start planning a trip! Friends can’t go? This might be the time for you to consider solo travel
Watch a documentary or listen to a podcast on your favorite topic.
SAY YES to a community event, gathering, or meeting that aligns with your values. Put yourself out there and connect.
Charlotte women’s march 2019
Do you need to be kinder to yourself?
This is huge so listen up.
None of these practices will even remotely serve you well if you are trying to meditate telling yourself “I suck at meditation, I’m terrible at this”. A bubble bath is NOT going to serve you if you are soaking in there with thoughts like “ugh my thighs are huge, I hate my body” or “god my friends think I’m a bad person”... And going to a group fitness class isn’t going to do any good if you are constantly comparing yourself to the girl in the front row hitting every beat on that bike in her new lululemon outfit.
Step one of you being aware of this shitty self-talk is already done, so good job!
Stop surrounding yourself with people or media that perpetuates this cycle. This is very important and can be the hardest step. Letting go of toxic things or people is not easy, but when it happens, it’s life-changing.
Replace those words that are constantly playing in your head with the kindness you deserve. Tell yourself what you love most, “I am a great friend”, or “I am creative and talented”. Practice breathing in peace and breathing out negativity. Literally, I mean it, as you breath in say “I am at peace” and breath out “I am letting go of all negativity”. Check out a few more examples.
Do you need support?
Call a friend or family member, but try to keep the conversation energy-positive. Sometimes we enter conversations and end up feeling more drained.
Schedule coffee or tea with a friend nearby.
Find a therapist or a non-biased outside source to honestly and vulnerably talk through what’s pulling you down.
I look forward to opening this discussion of non-conventional self care, and sharing more of my favorite practices. If you liked this post, check out my 10 Essential Grounding Practices to Reconnect or 25 Mental Health Tips to Beat the Winter Blues.
What are your self-care practices? Comment below or share on social media!
