Self-care
What is self-care?
Have you ever been told “look after yourself” but don’t really know where to start? Simplified, self-care is identifying activities that support your wellbeing – your physical, emotional and mental health. What does that mean exactly? Well, it is different for everyone. If someone told me running was relaxing, I would need to politely disagree. Similarly, something I might find relaxing, others may not. The key is finding what works for you
How do I find what works for me?
Unfortunately, there is no magic formula for self-care. Everyone’s self-care plan will be unique and may even change over time. What works one day, might not on another day, or in a months’ time.
I do not have enough time for self-care. I am too busy, too stressed, too overwhelmed…
The irony is, self-care is needed most when you are feeling busy, stressed and overwhelmed. Those feelings are alerts from your mind and body that you are overworked and need a break. While you might feel like you do not have time for a break (I have too much to do!), a bit like a powernap, a mini break can prove to make you more productive than if you continued to solider on without any breaks at all.
Where do I start?
While ultimately it is up to you to identify activities and behaviours that will be most beneficial to your own wellbeing, some activities such as ongoing social support, mindfulness exercises and physical activities are known to support and maintain physical and mental health.
Some examples of self-care practice:
- Make time for activities you enjoy and that help you to relax.
- Ensure you have had enough sleep and rest.
- Spend time with family and friends.
- Eat regularly and maintain a well-balanced diet.
- Balance your professional role and personal life, leave space outside of work for things you enjoy.
- Get involved and join a group with common interests.
- If you have spiritual beliefs, take time for regular spiritual practice or spend time with others who share your beliefs.
Most importantly, recognise when you need help from others and ask for support. This can be from friends, family, a GP, a psychologist or another health professional.
It is important to note, self-care is not designed to be an emergency stress relief plan. It is something that must be incorporated into everyday life to maintain good physical and mental health.
If you are feeling overwhelmed and would like some additional support to incorporate regular self-care practices into your everyday life, give the team at Progressive Psychology a call on 0477 798 932. Our friendly Psychologists are here to help!