7 TYPES OF SELF-CARE

Self-care involves practices that maintain our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. While methods vary, the common goal is to engage in activities that:

1. Boost happiness and health

2. Reduce disease risk

3. Aid stress management

4. Foster feelings of safety

5. Strengthen social connections.

Some self-care actions are simple, like brushing teeth or having coffee with a friend. Others, such as unplugging from technology, journaling, or seeking therapy, require more deliberate effort. Ultimately, self-care fills our ‘wellbeing cup’ rather than depleting it.

Consider self-care as like recharging a laptop battery. Whether you’re studying, gaming, or working, eventually, you’ll need to replenish your own energy.

Rather than plugging into a power point though, we recharge by getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, staying active, connecting with others, and enjoying activities we love. Prioritizing self-care in these areas significantly impacts our mental health and overall well-being.

Allocating time for self-care can pose challenges, especially when juggling work, studies, or family responsibilities. Additionally, feeling unworthy or doubting its impact may stem from low self-esteem. However, it’s essential to recognize that self-care benefits everyone, and prioritizing it isn’t selfish —it’s necessary! Even if you’re busy or feeling unworthy, prioritize self-care, and having a pre-prepared self-care plan, like a self-care box, can be a lifesaver when unexpected moments arise.

7 Types of Self-Care:

1.      Physical – maintaining regular sleep patterns, stretching, physical activity, healthy eating, rest

2.      Emotional - stress management, gratitude, acts of kindness, forgiveness, compassion

3.      Social – setting personal boundaries, developing healthy support systems, positive social media, spending time with loved ones

4.      Spiritual - time alone, creating a safe space, yoga, meditation, mindfulness, connection, being in nature

5.      Personal – partaking in hobbies, focussing on your self-identity (what makes you feel your best self), doing the things that bring you enjoyment

6.      Space – safety around you, organisation, clean and tidy spaces, security, stability

7.      Work - time management, work boundaries, break times, continuous learning and development

Remember self-care isn’t selfish – it is necessary!

Jo