We hear the word self-care quite a lot since COVID started and it seems we are becoming more aware of the need to look after ourselves and take practical actions to make sure we are physically, mentally & spiritually healthy.
So what exactly is self-care and why is it so important?
Self-care is all about recognising your needs and taking action to look after yourself. It can be anything that you enjoy that helps you feel recharged, rebalanced & rested. Life can be so busy and the expectation of always being productive can cause us to put our own well-being at the bottom of the list. The negative consequences of this can lead to stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, frustration, anger to name a few! As a wife & mum of two young children, I can definitely say I have experienced the overwhelming load of ‘spinning plates’ and trying to hold it altogether and the negative implications it can have.
Engaging in a self-care routine has been clinically proven to reduce or eliminate anxiety and depression, reduce stress, improve concentration, minimize frustration and anger, increase happiness, improve energy, and more. From a physical health perspective, self-care has been clinically proven to reduce heart disease, stroke and cancer. Spiritually, it may help keep us in tune with our higher power as well as realize our meaning in life. The positive benefits inspired my passion to be an advocate of self-care and this in is turn is why I started INDULGE The Collection; to promote the power of self-care and why YOU need to take time for yourself. Not only for your own health and well-being but also those you care for. When you are less stressed and more calm you are more equipped to meet the needs of others. It can also have a positive impact on the way you see yourself too! Health is wealth and without having a holistic approach to our well-being and bodies we can not be our healthiest & happiest self.
Here are a few suggestions:
- Going for a walk in nature
- A SPA night in
- Reading an inspiring book
- Daily positive affirmations
- Decluttering your space
- Meditation, yoga or pilates (or all 3!)
- Less screen time & replace with a new hobby or craft
- Take up a group exercise class
- Make bedtime an indulgent experience
Self care doesn’t need hours of time it can be as quick or as long as you want as long as it makes you feel good. So what will you be implementing this year to make yourself more of a priority?
And remember “Self-care is not self-indulgence, it’s self-preservation- Audre Lorde
