Simple Self-Care Practices for a Healthy Mind, Body and Soul
Self-care doesn’t have to be about buying the latest wellness fads, consuming the latest trends or spending hours at the spa. All these things can be great if they feel nourishing, but self-care should be about taking care of your needs on a daily basis and making it a priority to implement it into your routine.
Here are just a few self-care ideas you can practice that are FREE:
Go for a mindful walk outside. If you are unable to walk, getting out into nature and just sitting can be incredibly grounding.
Know your boundaries, respect them and know your limits. Boundaries are so important and a crucial aspect to our self-care.
Take time to practice meditation. Even 5 minutes a day can be beneficial while learning how to observe our thoughts without judgment. There are many free apps such as Headspace, Calm and Insight Time that have guided meditations.
Create a mantra that can be used during challenging moments. Write it down and read it as needed. Post it on your refrigerator and/or bathroom mirror as a reminder.
Take care of your body. Feed it healthy foods, drink water and exercise.
Practice self-compassion instead of self-criticism. Allowing ourselves to be human is radical self-care.
Take time for a social media detox. Taking time away from social media can have a positive impact on our mental health, our mood and allows us time to be more present.
Spend time with people who nourish and support you.
Take time to rest. We need to rest in order to heal and repair from the stress and anxiety we experience during the day. Self-care is also about listening to your body and taking extra time to sleep when needed.
Check out some free yoga videos online and find a practice that resonates with you.
Take time to stretch, especially if your job requires you to sit at a desk most of the day. Taking a few moments to stand up and stretch is good for our joints and muscles.
Create a music playlist that makes you feel good. Maybe it’s mellow spa music or 80s flashback (my personal favorite!). Playing music you love can turn a stressful day into personal self-care time.
Take time to listen to something uplifting and inspiring such as a podcast or a motivational speaker from TED Talk or YouTube.
Self-care doesn’t have to be costly or trendy. When we take the time to slow down and listen to what we need and find ways to act on that, we offer ourselves the opportunity to approach self-care that is more personalized and works for us. I hope you find these ideas helpful and nourishing.
