Life gets busy and it’s easy to forget to take care of yourself. Self care activities are things you do, on your own, to make you feel better in your body and mind. They don’t need to be expensive or time consuming. They can be done individually or in a group. Self care isn’t selfish. It makes you healthy and relieves you from stress.
This article outlines 50 simple ideas under four headings: time alone, calming and comforting, moving and time with others. If you’re not sure where to begin, just select one idea and give it a go today.
Self Care Activities that are Performed Independently
Time is a great opportunity to discover what you like. It can help you become more comfortable with yourself, particularly if you’ve been through a difficult time like loss, grief and/or a major life change. It’s the time to take it easy, do new things, and be gentle with yourself. Here are some ideas you may be able to do on your own:
- Read a good book
- Cook a new recipe
- Bake something sweet
- Try a craft
- Draw or doodle
- Listen to your favorite music
- Sing out loud
- Watch a funny show
- Drink a hot cup of tea
- Indulge in a favorite dish
- Go for a slow drive
- Visit a coffee shop
- Take a nap on a day off
- Enjoy a spa at home!
- Reorganize and redecorate a room
How to Calm, Relax or Uplift Easily
Stress can add up over the day. It’s normal to feel sad and tired, worried and lonely. Slowing down and feeling grounded in the present moment is possible thanks to calm habits. Simple techniques such as taking deep breaths, writing and using kind words can improve your mood and help you remember how much you have accomplished. Try these:
- Have a soak in a warm bath.
- Do some deep breathing
- Try adult coloring
- Pray or meditate
- Write in a journal
- Say a few kind words to yourself
- Create a list of the things you are grateful for.
- Light a candle with a fragrance that you like.
- Stay in the sun outside
- Look at the clouds or at the stars
- Take a short nap
- Put on a soft, soothing lotion
- Check out an uplifting podcast.
- 3.Simple Ways to Move Your Body.
- Exercise is an excellent means of releasing stress.
- Take a walk
- Stretch for 5 minutes
- Do some dancing in your living room.
- Attempt a soothing yoga class.
- Go for a bike ride
- Jump rope
- Do a home workout
- Play a sport with others
- Go for a swim
- Climb the stairs
- Get up and move throughout breaks of task
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Ways to Connect With Others
A need that is fulfilled by feeling close to others. It can relieve feelings of shame and loneliness and make you feel heard and understood. Support from friends and family can help keep you going when things are tough. Here are some suggestions for connection:
- Call a friend or text a friend.
- Play with your pet
- Do something nice for somebody
- Serve in your community
- Play a board game or cards
- Participate in a class or club
- Take food with family
- Write a letter to an old friend
- Take the time to find out more about family history.
Begin With One Small Step
Self Care doesn’t have to be large and complicated. Read through the lists and choose one thing that you think would be fun to do this week and give it a go! Pay attention to the sensations that occur after. Remember, what helps you and eliminate what doesn’t. With time, you will develop a toolbox that you can use at any time when things get tough. Everyone deserves the same treatment as they give to others.
FAQs
1.What is meant by self care?
Self care involves engaging in activities that keep your body, mind and feelings healthy. It can be simple, such as enjoying a cup of tea or a stroll. It is not selfish.
2.How much time a day will I need?
There is no need for a lot of time. Five or 10 minutes can make a difference. There are options to take some deep breaths, sit outside or stretch. Choose a time that is convenient for you and make an effort to do it daily.
3.Can I do these things with others?
Yes. Some ideas work best when paired with another such as playing cards, joining in with a class, calling a friend etc. Spending time with others can help you feel less isolated and supported.
4.What if I do not feel better by using an idea?
That is okay. Every idea is not for everyone. Do another stretch and see how it feels good to you.
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