No one else is going to show up for you in the way that you show up for yourself.

Designating at least one thing per day that will support you and your health can be a game changer. ⠀

What is self-care?

This word has so many definitions! It can mean something different to everyone. Botton line is that it is extremely important and something that should not be taken lightly! If we do not make the time to care for ourselves how can we expect to perform our best, do our best, and care for  others? We are at the foundation of our lives. If that foundation is faulty everything else can begin to crumble.

For many people self-care is something that they make time for once in a while or only when it happens to be convenient. Stop and ask yourself though – when you leave this to chance how often does it happen? Does that frequency serve you as well as it could?

Making the time for tending to your own needs is pivotal when it comes to our well-being. No one else is going to show up for you in the way that you show up for yourself. I recommend designating at least one thing per day that will support you and your health.

Self-care doesn’t have to mean spending an entire day at the spa (If you can swing it by all means!). It can be small. Take 5 mins to sit outside in the sun and take it in. Spend 10 minutes meditating before you start your day. Give yourself a break when you need it. If you are tired rest. If you are stressed do something to support yourself.

We are so inundated with standards that tell us more, more, more. If working hard is good then doubling your work hours must be better right? WRONG. Navigating your day in a way that nourishes you will have far more positive outcomes.

What if you had strategies in place that could stop stress in it tracks? Or give you the energy to not only keep going, but to thrive? Self-care is the answer.

Here are some of my favorites:

Meditate

This is one of the most impactful things that you can do for yourself. Giving your mind a change to settle has profound benefits. Try meditating for 15 mins first thing in the morning. It is a great way to start the day and can help set the tone for success. If you hit an afternoon lull, a few mindful moments can help support you there as well. 

Go for a walk

If you have breaks at work, why not get outside and move rather than sitting at your desk?

Yoga

If you can take a class add it to your schedule – perhaps just one time per week.  If classes aren’t your jam, look up some moves online and practice at home.

Move

Exercise is a great way to blow off some stream. Let your body be your guide. If you are tired listen. Rest and recovery is just as important as movement.

Eat real food

Having a good diet is key. Its like caring for yourself from the inside out.

Take a bath

This is a great way to relieve tension. Bonus points if you add epsom salt and/or essential oils.

Read a book

Take at least 10 minutes to have some quiet time with a good book. It can be tempting to always hit the self help and informational topics, but entertaining the mind with a good fiction novel can really give you the rest and relaxation you deserve.

Spend time with friends and family

Having a strong community and rich social life is just as important as eating well and exercising.

There are so many options! Do what feels right. Ask youself, what would serve me most today? If you put your needs first you will be more present for the people and things that are most important in your life. You are your foundation.