For a long time, I thought that self-care was a manifestation of luxury. I believed that self-care checklists were about superficial things like doing your nails or taking a good bath, and while that’s somehow true, I discovered that the concept is deeper than that.
What is Self-Care?
Self-care is mainly about taking care of your mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
On one hand, it may involve deep actions like making healthy lifestyle options, avoiding toxic lifestyle habits, self-monitoring, and so on. On the other hand, self-care includes other fun and nourishing activities like meditating, reading, or getting a massage.
No matter how big or small the activity is, they are all important for our mental and physical health.
Why it is Important?
In fact, self-care will give you the chance to prioritize yourself to serve your needs. Furthermore, by engaging in a self-care plan, we improve the quality of our lives. Although self-care is extremely important, a lot of people do not know how to start it. For your convenience, we have gathered this checklist, so that you can start taking care of yourself, your mind, body, and soul.
The Three Main Categories
Physical
– Moisturize your body and face.
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– Get enough sleep (8 hours every day)
– Maintain a balanced diet by eating at least three meals a day.
– Take care of your personal hygiene- showering, washing your face, brushing teeth, etc.
– Drink enough water.
– Get some fresh air every day.
– Take vitamins.
– Take a nap.
– Exercise
– Notice your breath.
– Notice your cycle.
Emotional
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– Meditate
– Allow yourself to say “no” you need to say it.
– Hang out with your friends.
– Start journaling.
– Listen to your favorite music.
– Take a break.
– Practice self-compassion by forgiving yourself.
– Create boundaries
– Ask for help if you needed.
– Practice gratitude.
Psychological
– Read daily.
– Take a one-hour break from social media daily.
– Make your bed.
– Wear your favorite clothes
– Spend time with your pets (if you have)
– Take a new class.
– Cut off toxic people from your life.
– Practice being silent
– Make time for others.
– Connect with an old friend.
– Smile at others.
Finally, remember that all of these activities are just suggestions. You can do whatever makes you comfortable and happy. And always know that there is no “right” or “wrong” while practicing self-care.