The things you do to maintain your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being are considered self-care. Although emphasizing that people pay attention to self-care may seem obvious, it's usually not top of mind for many. Our lives get busy and we tend to forget to take care of ourselves, sometimes to the point of burnout. Discover 10 self-care hacks you’ll wish you knew all along.
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Massages, bubble baths with a glass of wine, face masks, are things that spring to mind when we think about self-care. In reality, self-care doesn't need to be expensive or include a lot of fancy pampering. There are several self-care hacks that are inexpensive but can potentially change your life for the better if practiced regularly. We discuss 10 of these hacks in this article, but first, let's talk about the importance of self-care.
Why is self-care important?
With the advent of hustle culture and similar ideas, society has been sold the idea that we need to be productive all the time. Many who have taken this idea to heart have suffered consequences affecting their physical and mental health.
Burnout, despair, anxiety, resentment, and a slew of other unpleasant consequences are just some of the possibilities when we ignore self-care. Considering the physical and mental cost of ailment, not to mention the financial cost of modern healthcare, it's in everyone's interest to take self-care seriously.
Regularly practicing self-care provides relief from the strains of everyday life as it gets you to a healthy position where your productivity is once again optimal. Studies have shown that self-care reduces and, in some cases, eliminates depression and anxiety, improves focus, reduces irritation and anger, increases happiness, improves energy, and more.
Self-care has long been proven to lower heart disease, stroke, and cancer in terms of physical health. Now let’s discuss 10 self-care hacks you’ll wish you knew all along.
1. Have a guided meditation session as often as possible
A few minutes of meditation each day can help you regain your inner serenity. There are apps with inexpensive subscriptions you could install on your mobile phone for this. Alternatively, you can search for some good ones on YouTube. You can do it whenever you choose, alone in your room, or while out on a safe nature stroll.
2. Write in your journal for a few minutes every day
You can ease into it by jotting down three things you're thankful for each day. You use an actual journal or your phone’s note-taking app. Not only will it feel good to get your thoughts and feelings out, but you'll be able to go back and read older notes when the tough times come around and remind yourself that whatever you're going through will pass and better days are ahead.
3. Engage in some stretching
Stretching helps with posture, relaxation, and muscle tension. Move your body for 5-10 minutes to stretch your figure. You can do it in the morning when you wake up or before you go to bed at the end of the day. Stretching will surely help you calm down and contribute to restful sleep.
4. Add uplifting memories and quotes to your phone's folder
It may sound trite, but reading inspirational quotations is a quick way to lift your spirits. Saving and sharing some of the best quotes you come across is also a great way to stay connected to your loved ones you don't see very frequently. It's a wonderful way to keep everyone in touch and emotionally balanced.
5. Turn off your electronic devices for 10-15 minutes
Concentrate on yourself and your environment during this period. Your emails and SMS messages can be sent later. Allowing yourself some peace and quiet can help you de-stress and unclutter your mind. A good dose of quiet time can also aid your heart health.
6. Make a feel-good playlist
You can include tunes that will help you relax or meditate. Once you've created your playlist, you may listen to it while in the car, before going to bed, or whenever you're feeling worried. Music can be utilized as a type of treatment, and as this study demonstrates, it can help the nervous system relax.
7. Be helpful to others
One of the simplest ways to lift your spirits is to help others. This could be as simple as offering money or time to those in need; even calling three family members or friends and asking how they are doing. Make an effort to keep the conversation upbeat and cheerful.
8. Declutter your space
It may appear to be an inconvenient and time-consuming activity, but taking care of yourself also means taking care of your surroundings. Decluttering your home or environment can help you feel less anxious and stressed while also increasing your productivity and refreshing your mind. You will be peaceful and well-organized as a result of this. Set aside some time at the end of each week to declutter, tidy your workstation, delete old emails, and organize your belongings.
9. Have something to be excited about
It could be as easy as cooking your favorite meal for dinner or planning a getaway with a friend. Have something on your schedule, no matter what it is—the pleasure of planning something is one more rewarding way to practice self-care.
10. Take regular walks
Walking helps to relax the mind without stressing the body, and it's simple to fit in no matter how hectic your schedule is. Walking is free, can feel peaceful, and can improve your mood in the short and long term.
In conclusion
It's time to prioritize self-care if you truly want to be the greatest version of yourself. By implication, this benefits those around you as well. With these simple self-care hacks, you can transform into your best self.
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