A little time to yourself may seem counteractive to your goal of being family oriented, but it’s not. A little time to yourself to decompress and unwind allows you to be more present for the people you love. Don’t forget to take care of your own needs so that you can take care of the people you love.
Principle # 1 - Self-Care is Not Selfish
Self-care is taking care of oneself to better meet the needs of everybody and everything that demands your attention.
Principle # 2 - Self-Care Provides Balance
Balance guarantees success in all of life’s areas.
Principle # 3 - Self-Care is Contagious
Practicing Self-Care serves as an inspiration and a reminder to others to invest time and attention into themselves.
Principle # 4 - Self-Care is Practiced Everyday
Self-Care is not something you do occasionally, but something that is a part of your everyday life.
Principle # 5 - Self-Care means treating yourself well.
It will translate into success in health, career, relationships, and life. Self-Care is an investment and your impact in every situation will be improved.
Examples of Self-Care
15 minutes
Do some light stretches
Do an adult coloring book
Create a gratitude list and write down 5 things, people, places you’re grateful for
Read a calming passage in a book or your favorite inspirational quotes
Make a cup of tea
Write a seasonal bucket list
Make a travel wish list
Water your plants
Make a list of things or activities that make you feel grounded and relaxed (then do the activities on this list when you have more time!)
30 minutes
Go outside for a walk
Do a yoga video
Do watercolors
Call a friend
Run a hot bath (maybe hot tub)
Watch a favorite show that you’ve already watched a hundred times (The notebook and yes guys too)
Write in your journal
1 hour
Paint (watercolors, draw, pottery, wood carving)
Bake something that will make your kitchen smell delicious
Light some candles and curl up with a transportive book
Take an online dance or exercise class
Go for a walk in a new neighborhood
Turn off your devices and ease into your nighttime routine
Go hiking in nature
Walk on the beach and collect some pretty shells or sea glass
Have an outdoor picnic (weather permitting)
Go for a long bike ride
Relax in a hammock or couch with a good book or magazine
Clean your house (some people find this relaxing!)
What would you like to do and do it!
Resources: Self-care resources and 5 Self-care practices