Easy Ways to Integrate Self-Care into Your Daily Life
When it comes to self-care, we must all find a way to incorporate it into our lives. The concept of self-care is somewhat new to the mainstream awareness, so many people are still learning how to do it and what it really is. Taking care of oneself is the basis, but it extends to a true mindfulness and attention to one’s needs and wants. Many times, we are so preoccupied with helping everyone else that we place ourselves last on our to do lists. This can lead to a number of challenges, if you consistently work at a deficit of energy and attention to yourself. If you find yourself constantly burnt out, then you may be lacking in self-care. And if when you approach the idea of self-care, you aren’t even sure what your wants and needs are to begin with, it is definitely time for more self-care. But getting the process started can seem daunting, especially if this is your first time truly focusing on you. This is why approaching self-care simply is the best way to start. To learn how you can start to refuel your personal reservoir, check out these easy ways to integrate self-care into your daily life.
Get up earlier in the morning
While it may seem like those couple of extra minutes of sleep make a huge difference, try getting up a little earlier instead. You may find that giving yourself just 30 more minutes in the morning can totally transform your routine. Whether it be exercise-related or organization, you do a lot with extra time in the morning. You can make a nice breakfast, go for a run, or make yourself to do lists. Or you can start your day off more zen, which could include reading, meditating, or doing some positive affirmations. Whatever you choose, you have the option to be intentional in any direction. The morning is a great time to carve out space, especially while your brain is fresh and you have the whole day ahead of you.
Get some extra steps in
If your job requires you to sit at a desk for long periods of time, this one is especially for you. Our modern lives have made us much less active. Because of this, we just don’t move around as much as we have in prior decades. This means you have to intentionally take time to move more. When you are at the grocery store, park a few spots back than usual and get those steps in. When you have the option to take the elevator, take the stairs instead. And another way to get some extra activity in at work is to wear a device that tracks your activity. You can set reminders to encourage you to move hourly, and you can get invested in hitting a daily steps goal to keep you motivated.
Make sure you take a lunch break
On top of not moving much during our work days, many of us are staring at computer screens all day. This can take a huge toll on our physical and mental health. But the way many of us move throughout the day, it is not unlikely to take lunch at the desk and shovel down a sandwich while working away. To take some time for yourself, actually leave your desk and take a real lunch break. This will give you some time to decompress, regather yourself and dial back from constant thinking and stimulation. Going for a walk around the block or sitting outside and listening to some music can work wonders for your mental state, your attitude towards work, and likely will improve your performance as well.
Drink more water
This is one of the simplest yet impactful things we can do for our self-care. So many things can be improved if we are hydrated, from a physical, emotional, and mental standpoint. Keeping a water bottle near you is one way to increase water intake. Also, there are a ton of apps that will help you track your water intake and send you friendly reminders to take a sip.
Talk to someone you love every day
Our world has become one that is disconnected and isolating. It can be hard to keep up the motivation to get through our busy days when we aren’t able to spend quality time with our loved ones. One of the best ways to stay connected is to simply call a family member or friend. This is one way to keep in touch when you physically can’t be with them in person.