5 Nourishing Tips For Self-Care
These are my top 5 favorite tips to get your self-care on track.
1. Honor Your Losses
This first tip is so essential. As human beings, we all experience various kinds of loss. As we age and experience life, it is simply inevitable. Whether it’s job loss, relationship loss, loss of a dream, loss of a loved one, or loss of a certain phase of life, it impacts us all. The worst thing you can do is ignore these losses. They are an integral part of your being and your life story. They matter and are worthy of being honored. Even though loss can be very uncomfortable and painful to face, these experiences can truly shape you, guide you, and eventually lead you to greater joy and healing. So I invite you to honor your losses by journaling about them, speaking of them, sharing your story, connecting with others who “get it,” being gentle with yourself, and staying open to the lessons that arise.
2. Set Healthy Boundaries
Learn when to say “No.” If you’re not protecting your energy and central nervous system, it will only be a matter of time until you crash and burn. It’s important to consider what is truly sustainable. When it comes to non-essential projects, social commitments, or activities that don’t feel like a “10” to you, look at removing them from your to-do list when possible. Sometimes, you have to take a step back and make space to breathe. When it comes to your mental and emotional health, practice giving yourself permission to let go and say “no.”
3. Practice Being Present
This can be a real challenge since we’re always surrounded by technology. However, creating time to decompress by putting down your phone more frequently or taking five minutes to meditate can make a huge difference in your ability to be present. Try sitting for 5 minutes during the day and feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin, savor a hot beverage and pay attention to the flavor, or take a walk and really soak in your surroundings. These simple moments of awareness can quickly lead to feeling more grounded and less stressed. Just start small and gradual.
4. Nourish Your Body
Treat your body like the sacred vessel that it is. Make a conscious effort to consume food and drink that will fuel and energize you. Try switching out sugary snacks for a smoothie instead. Add in some leafy greens. Drink lots of water and practice cultivating gratitude before you enjoy a meal. This simple act of appreciation can help us to stay mindful of what we put in our bodies and how it makes us feel. Also, remember to get your body moving. Just 15-20 minutes of exercise a day can start moving those endorphins and lift your mood. Your body is the only one you’ve got, so give it the love it deserves.
5. Do One Thing That Brings You Joy Each Day
Each day that we have is a gift. Even if you are moving through something really hard, like a recent loss, health challenge, or you’re struggling with a life transition, allow yourself time to step out of the fog for a little breather. Whether it’s listening to an inspirational podcast, blasting your favorite song in your car, sipping your favorite latte, or reading a new novel, allow yourself those small (but magical) moments of pure joy. You will feel clearer, less emotionally burdened, and more like the “you” that you enjoy being.
You can start putting these tips into action right away. Remember, self-care = self-love and you are so deserving of love every day!