10 Ways To Care For Yourself

Hey, Psych2Goers!

When you hear the words self-care, what do you think? Maybe: Great! That means I can eat chocolate cake and lounge around in my pyjamas all day! But wait a minute. Sorry to say, that isn’t really self-care. That’s more like pseudo-self-care. We often appreciate other people in our lives: our friends, our co-workers and of course, our family. We are a social species after all. We surround ourselves with people to help us live happier and healthier (even if it’s just once in a while, especially if you’re an introvert). 

We often show our appreciation to our friends and family by telling them ‘thank you!’ or ‘ I love you’ or maybe with a big hug or a text with lots of heart emojis. It’s easy to appreciate others, but it’s often difficult to appreciate yourself. Isn’t that strange when you think about it? So how do we go about appreciating ourselves? It’s all down to that buzzword – self-care.

Self-care is doing stuff to take care of your body and mind. Things that help you be the best you can be. And what are those things, you ask? 

Disclaimer: This video is for educational purposes and is based on personal opinions. This video is not a substitute for professional advice, but general guidance. We advise you to always listen to your intuition and always do what is right for you.

With that said, here are 10 things you can do to take care of yourself and by doing that you show that you appreciate yourself!

1. Move your body every day. 

It doesn’t have to mean running a half marathon. It could just be a walk around the block with your pup. Or perhaps some yoga or stretching when you first wake up to work out all the stiffness from sleeping all night.

2. Eat a healthy diet.

A great way to appreciate your body is treating it right by eating well – because it does so much for you – and most of it you don’t even think about! You don’t think every time you take a breath or each time your heart beats, right? 

But eating healthy helps keep your body healthy so you can become one of those old people that sit on their porch in a rocking chair saying to kids, “Back in my day…!”

3. Drink lots of H20.

Because our body is mostly water (up to 60%!) it’s important to keep it well hydrated. This one is a super easy way to appreciate your body and therefore yourself.

4. Set boundaries. 

One way to appreciate yourself is to protect your energy and your time, and a simple way to do that is to set boundaries. How can you do that? Say ‘no’, once in a while. If you don’t feel like hanging out with your friends (or meeting up for a video chat), that’s okay, you can say no thanks, maybe another time.

Doing this gives you space to relax and recharge so you can be your best self whenever you do get together with others!

5. Keep up a good hygiene routine. 

Don’t skip your refreshing shower or your relaxing bath. If you need some energy, taking a shower is a good option. Are you stressed? Take a soak in a bubble bath. And don’t forget to brush your hair and teeth and wash your face so you’re ready to face the day (and feel more human – even before a cup of coffee!).

6. Take time to do something you really enjoy. 

Even if it’s just for a few minutes, take some time every day to do things you love. Do you love reading? Baking? Indoor rock climbing? A nice cup of coffee or tea? Or are you a gamer? Whatever it is, do something just for you every day. 

7. Get outside. 

Nature is good for the mind, body and soul. You can find a quiet place to sit and feel relaxed by the fresh air and beautiful scenery. 

8. Give yourself a massage. 

You don’t need oils or hot stones – it doesn’t have to be complicated!  Just take one hand and massage your neck and shoulder on the opposite side. Or maybe give yourself a foot massage. You can also give your hands a quick massage! An easy way to do it is to take a pencil, hold it between your palms, then roll it up and down your hands by moving your palms up and down.

9. Have a nap. 

We can’t always be go, go, go and super busy in this chaotic life, otherwise we’ll hit a wall with burnout. Sometimes we need to slow down and actually get some rest (especially those who are night owls!). Is this anyone else’s favourite tip?

10. Do a digital detox.

In today’s tech-filled world, this might be easier said than done, I know. But try to take a break from your electronic devices every once in a while – even just for a day! (or okay, even half a day), and instead connect with people in the real world – friends and family – instead of just through your phone screen!

Bonus Tip:

Okay, and now you can treat yourself to that piece of chocolate cake (or donut, cookie or – insert your favourite treat here). Because appreciating yourself also means not denying yourself things that make you feel good – but make sure you keep them to just once in a while so they remain a special treat!

What do you do to appreciate and care for yourself? Share your tips in the comments below!

And remember to take care, friends!