Hearing the term “self care” can trigger an automatic eye roll from some, who think of self care as the cliche bubble bath, face mask, or other stereotypical things they may have seen in media. Self care seems to be a buzzword these days, with more and more people using it on social media, television, and marketing. But what does self care actually mean?
To us, self care is something that you do to be a good friend to yourself. Self care activities are things that make you feel recharged, energized, and more like yourself. These activities can come in many shapes and forms. The examples below are just a starting point for the possibilities of self care activities that you may do.
Self Care Ideas
| Physical | Relationships | Creativity | Spiritual |
| ·Go for a walk
·Try a yoga YouTube video ·Join a house league for a sport of your choice ·Have a dance party in your kitchen · Have a warm bath ·Do stretches ·Make a warm cup of tea ·Organize something in your home ·Go to bed early to get 8 hours of sleep ·Get a Massage ·Drink more water ·Spend time in the sun |
·Text someone
·Call someone ·Go for coffee ·Tell someone how you feel ·Tell someone why you appreciate them ·Cuddle with a loved one ·Create boundaries – say “no” and express your needs ·Turn off your phone after a certain time ·Limit time on social media ·Play a board game with loved ones ·Go on a date with your significant other |
· Journal
·Get an adult colouring book ·Paint ·Make a card for someone ·Look up and make a new recipe ·Take art lessons ·Take dance lessons ·Repurpose an object ·Learn a new skill on YouTube ·Visit the library or book store ·Start a blog ·Work on a home project ·Do some gardening
|
·Spend time in nature
·Meditate ·Pray ·Journal ·Listen to meaningful music ·Find and listen to podcasts that inspire you ·Look up and save inspirational quotes ·Visit a sacred place ·Create a sacred place in your home with candles or scents ·Watch the sunrise or sunset ·Help someone ·Volunteer |
Did any of these surprise you? Are there some that you are already doing, but never thought of it as self care?
Our challenge to you is to pick at least one of these activities to do for yourself each day. It doesn’t have to be a daunting process that requires a great deal of time and energy! Even one small self care activity like ensuring you’re getting enough water or sitting outside can make the world of a difference.
Kayleen Edwards, MA, RP
kayleen@rootsinwellness.ca