Self-care can be one of the toughest parts of life. We are constantly focusing on things around us-our jobs, homes, families, friends, and our list of things to do that we have thought about, but haven't quite gotten to yet. Sometimes, keeping busy can be fulfilling and can feel productive. Other times, it can feel draining and as though we never spend enough time on ourselves, and the things we really want to do.
In working with clients who come in stressed, anxious and drained from life's everyday struggles, lack of self-care is often times the culprit. I tell people all the time that we are all born with a tool box of tools to handle things, and we add to those tools throughout our lifetime. Counseling can be a great way to to add to our tool box and self-care can be a very essential tool.
You might ask, "How do I even begin?!" Starting is the hardest part! The trick is to make a list of things you love to do and that make you feel calm, relaxed and at peace. Some examples of ideas are below for your reference, but self-care is unique to the individual. For me, movie days, date nights with my husband, traveling and shopping are my self-care go-tos. I try to do at least one thing on my list a week, but sometimes when that plan fails, I make sure to block out time on my calendar. This helps to ensure I am not getting caught up in my daily routine and forgetting to do something fun for me! It can feel selfish at first, but the results of feeling refreshed and relaxed can help you feel happier, healthier, and better assist you in taking care of those around you.
If you aren't sure where to start with self-care, check out this list of ideas:
If you like to read, check out this book:
Self Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself, by Kristin Neff. This book is a great insight into what being kind to yourself can do for your self-esteem and inner confidence.
"Self Compassion is simply giving the kindness to ourselves that we would give to others." -Christopher Germer
In working with clients who come in stressed, anxious and drained from life's everyday struggles, lack of self-care is often times the culprit. I tell people all the time that we are all born with a tool box of tools to handle things, and we add to those tools throughout our lifetime. Counseling can be a great way to to add to our tool box and self-care can be a very essential tool.
You might ask, "How do I even begin?!" Starting is the hardest part! The trick is to make a list of things you love to do and that make you feel calm, relaxed and at peace. Some examples of ideas are below for your reference, but self-care is unique to the individual. For me, movie days, date nights with my husband, traveling and shopping are my self-care go-tos. I try to do at least one thing on my list a week, but sometimes when that plan fails, I make sure to block out time on my calendar. This helps to ensure I am not getting caught up in my daily routine and forgetting to do something fun for me! It can feel selfish at first, but the results of feeling refreshed and relaxed can help you feel happier, healthier, and better assist you in taking care of those around you.
If you aren't sure where to start with self-care, check out this list of ideas:
- Gratitude Journal
- Taking Walks/Hiking
- Yoga/Meditation
- Dancing
- Spending time with pets
- Sleeping in
- Catching up with friends
- Cooking
- Reading
- Spa Day
- Crafting
- Concerts/Listening to your favorite music
- Shopping
- Traveling
- Spending time practicing your faith
- Art
- Enjoying Nature
- Eating your favorite meal or treat
If you like to read, check out this book:
Self Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself, by Kristin Neff. This book is a great insight into what being kind to yourself can do for your self-esteem and inner confidence.
"Self Compassion is simply giving the kindness to ourselves that we would give to others." -Christopher Germer
