BLOG POST # TWO PART 1
Now that you understand what self care is and why it's important, how do you make it happen? In this blog, I'll help you figure out where to start and explore what makes a sustainable self-care practice.
This about the five main aspects of self care physical, mental, spiritual, joy, and relationships. Do you feel particularly drawn to one?
Where in your life do you feel an itch to make a change?
Where do you feel like you could use some love and attention?
What makes you feel resistant?
What would you like to make more time for?
What sound like a fun or pleasurable thing to do?
What could make an immediate positive impact, even a tiny one?
Chose a specific action that you could start today. It might be a regular practice you want to bring into your life or a task that's been on your wish list for a while. It could even be something that you already do that you want to give more love and attention to.
Here are a few examples to get you thinking:
Create a bedtime routine.
Add a piece of fruit to your afternoon snack.
Start a daily gratitude practice.
Book an appointment with a personal stylist.
The foundation of self care: self awareness
Self awareness is crucial element of self care-it's how you figure out what kind of self care you actually need. It's easy to rush through your day without being fully aware of what you're feeling. Next thing you know, it's 5pm and you're arm-deep in a bag of chips, tired and grumpy without why.
Self awareness is simply getting to know yourself. It's about slowing down, being present and getting quiet so you can hear your inner wisdom. When we get quiet, things that are important to us get louder. The more you do it, the better you'll understand the kind of self care you need.
There are many ways to cultivate self awareness, from a morning journaling session to a meditation practice, or this simple check-in practice.
The one minute check-in
Where you are and whatever you are doing, simply stop for one minute.
Ask yourself.
What am I thinking about right now? Am I focused on the task at hand or is something else on my mind?
What emotion am I feeling? Name each one.
What's happening in my body? Any aches or pains asking for attention? Mentally scan from head to toe and check in.
What do I need right now? Be specific. A break, a stretch, a glass of water, a hug, a walk.
What's the very next small step I can take?
Start by doing this when you wake up, then build up to a few times throughout the day and evening. It's a great way to bring yourself into the present moment, then you can make self-care adjustment as needed.
How to make self care happen
Habits
Habits help put self care on autopilot. But it's important to approach them in a thoughtful, realistic way. Here's how to do it:
Shrink it
Choose a habit that's realistic and take into account where you are right now. If you want to run but haven't done so for 20 years, don't aim for a marathon on day one. If you want to start a meditation practice, try a five minute guided meditation rather than attempting to sit in silence for an hour. Being realistic allows your brain and body to adjust to your new behaviour and it will be more likely to stick.
Plan it
As basic as it sound, things that get scheduled tend to get done. Decide when you will do this new habit and put it in your calendar. Set reminders if you need to!
Share it
Consider sharing your plans with a trusted friend to help you stay accountable. Make sure they suit your motivation style-do you prefer gentle encouragement or total nagging? Choose carefully!
Rituals
You could use the word 'routines' just as easily, but rituals make everyday tasks feel more special! Think about the things you do each day. Where could you add a layer of pleasure or pampering to turn them into an occasion? Sometime it's simply about adding presence- focusing on the task at hand without distractions.
Goals
Self care is not just about nurturing yourself in the present, it's about looking after your future self too. Goals are a great way to aim your life compass in the direction you want.
I feel this blog post is already too long, so I'm ending this blog here. This blog part two is coming soon. I hope you are loving this self care blog series. Make sure to read my next blog.
Have a good day!
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