Skip to content 
Though the word SELF-CARE has become trend in the current world. It is easy to miss yourself in the noise of daily struggle. There is a quiet whisper that reminds you every day that wellness matters more than all other work.
Most of us are aware of the fact that one should take care of themselves first to be healthy and then focus on other aspects of life. But on a Monday morning, we tend to forget all our self care plans and prioritize things that never stop and demand your time and energy.
“Self care is not selfish.” It is important. Let’s understand more on how one can prioritize Self care?
Statistic Study data from the Journal of Psychiatric Research, NAMI, and Harvard Business Review on Self-Care Activities:
What is Self-Care?
Self care stands for the intentional steps we take to improve our physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. It involves things like exercise, diet, awareness, and setting reasonable boundaries.
Self care is essential for both men and women, and it consists of activities that refill energy, nourish our brains, and comfort our spirits. It is not about enjoying; rather, it is about making decisions that benefit our general well-being, such as walking, practicing mindfulness, or setting limits.
Why Self-Care is Important?
Constant deadlines and duties can cause chronic stress and burnout. Neglecting personal needs can lead to poor physical health, damaged relationships, and decreased mental well-being. Lowered productivity owing to mental and physical tiredness. Self Care Impact on Overall Well-Being like:
- Increases mental resilience, allowing for better dealing with stress and hardship.
- Improves physical health by engaging in regular self care activities such as exercise and healthy eating.
- Strengthens relationships by encouraging presence, patience, and compassion.
- Prevents burnout, lowers stress, and enhances attention and decision-making.
- Promotes resilience, allowing recovery from setbacks.
- Provides energy and clarity for completing tasks and managing work and personal
Dimensions of Self Care
Physical Self Care
- Contains activities intended to maintain or improve physical health.
- Incorporates regular activity, balanced nutrition, and appropriate sleep.
- “Self care Sunday” practice increases energy levels.
- Physical self care is a key component of complete wellness.
Emotional Self Care
- Expresses and handles emotions in a healthy manner.
- Activities may include writing, therapy, or spending time with loved ones.
- Essential for mental health and resilience.
- Beneficial for both men and women’s mental health, allowing us to manage life’s problems.
Mental Self Care
- Engages the mind with activities such as reading, puzzles, and learning new skills.
- In addition, improves intellectual health and growth.
- Set aside time each week for brain-challenging and interesting activities.
Social Self Care
- Social self care focuses on developing relationships. Maintaining connection with others, whether by catching up with friends or joining a group, is vital for emotional well-being.
- Emphasizes fostering connections for emotional well-being.
- Involves spending time with loved ones, engaging in community events, or simply chatting.
- Essential for emotional support and a sense of belonging.
Spiritual Self Care
- Connects with something beyond oneself through meditation, prayer, or spending time in nature.
- Promotes a sense of inner calm and purpose.
- Activities nurture the spirit and help us find significance in life.
Practical Tips for Self-Care
- Create a Self-Care List: Begin by creating a self care list of things that you like and that make you feel rejuvenated. This might be as easy as reading a book, having a bath, or going for a stroll. Keep this list available so you can quickly select an activity when you need a break.
- Schedule Self Care Activities: Schedule self care activities such as exercises, ideas, and hobbies on your calendar. Set aside Sundays as “self care day” to refuel and feed your body and mind. Treat self-care activities like non-negotiable appointments on your calendar. This method prioritizes your well-being and encourages a better lifestyle.
- Build a Sustainable Routine: To develop a long-term self-care habit, begin by introducing one or two activities that you enjoy into your everyday life. Consistency is essential for making self care a habit. Customize your routine to meet your own requirements and tastes, focusing on what actually nourishes you.
Reevaluate your self care activities on a regular basis to verify that they are still beneficial to you. Note that self care should be an ongoing component of your life, not something you just do when you’re exhausted. Begin by incorporating one or two self care activities into your daily routine, then develop from there.
- Saying No and Setting Boundaries: Learning to say no is an important part of self-care. By creating boundaries, you preserve your time and energy, ensuring that you have enough for yourself. It’s critical to understand that it’s OK to prioritize your own well-being over external responsibilities.
- Daily Mindfulness Exercises: Integrate mindfulness into your everyday practice, even if just for a few minutes. Mindfulness methods such as deep breathing, meditation, or simply being present in the moment may dramatically reduce stress and improve emotional stability.
- Physical Activities You Can Do Anywhere: Physical self-care does not need to be time-consuming. Simple exercises such as stretching, going for a walk, or completing a little workout at home may significantly improve your physical and mental health.
- Emotional Check-ins and Reflection: Take the time to check in with your emotions on a regular basis. Consider how you’re feeling and why. Journaling may be an effective method for processing emotions while figuring out what you need to be balanced.
- Digital Detox: With the growing connectivity linked with technology, stepping away from screens has become a vital aspect of self-care. A “digital detox” is turning off electronics for a while so you can refresh emotionally and mentally. Consider including this in your self-care practice, particularly if you get overwhelmed from continual connectedness.
Watch the animated video focusing on mental health and self-care from National Black Leadership Commission on Health
Overcoming Common Barriers to Self Care
Addressing guilt: Many individuals, particularly parents and caregivers, feel bad about having time for themselves. It’s crucial to remember that self care is not selfish; it’s necessary. Taking care of oneself helps you to be more present for others.
Combating the “Too Busy” Mindset: The “too busy” perspective is a frequent barrier to self-care. Realize that self care is a necessity, not a luxury. Prioritizing self care may really increase your effectiveness in all aspects of life. Even simple activities, such as taking a few deep breaths or going outdoors for some fresh air, can make a big impact.
Seeking Support: If you’re having trouble prioritizing self-care, get help from friends, family, or a therapist. Sometimes having someone support you or hold you accountable may make all the difference.
Self care is not Selfish!!
Self-care is not a luxury; it is an important part of a healthy and satisfying lifestyle. Taking care of yourself improves your mental and physical health, strengthens your relationships, and boosts your overall wellbeing.
No matter how hectic life becomes, it is critical to prioritize your well-being. Begin with small measures and eventually establish a self-care plan that nurtures you.
Self care is not negotiable. It acts as the framework for a balanced, healthy, and enjoyable existence. Make a commitment to prioritizing your well-being, and watch as everything in your life improves.
So, what steps will you take today to practice self care and prioritize your well-being?
