Self Care Tips: 12 Tips for Taking Care of Yourself
These days, it’s more crucial than ever to practice some well-deserved self-care at home. Fortunately, following some simple self care tips can do wonders for your mental, physical, and emotional health. While it may be difficult to schedule an appointment for some "me time", it's very important that you find ways to unwind and de-stress on a regular basis. There are many things you can do to feel your best, and all without ever having to leave home.
Our Favorite Self Care Tips
Self care doesn't have to be complicated or pricey. In fact, some of the most effective methods are also the simplest. Try some of these easy self care ideas to protect your mind and body at home.
1. Sleep
Your body needs ample rest to maintain good health. Lack of sufficient sleep can lead to low energy levels, increased anxiety, poor digestion, dry or puffy skin, and even chronic pain. Taking time to rest and rejuvenate can help you look and feel your best. While the total number of hours you need each night varies from person to person, a minimum of seven hours is a good starting point. If you have trouble relaxing before bed, start with the following tips to help you drift off to sleep:
- Limit your caffeine intake
- Unwind with a calming activity, such as stretching, reading or taking a warm bath
- Get into bed at the same time each night
- Set the thermostat between 60 and 67 degrees, which is the optimum temperature for better sleep
2. Eating Nourishing Food
Your body needs key nutrients to truly thrive. Try your best to limit processed and refined foods and prepare your meals and snacks at home instead. Making better dietary choices can help you combat inflammation, boost your immune system, and increase your energy levels. Look for foods that offer the most health benefits in a single serving and make them a regular part of your diet. Don't forget to stay hydrated and increase your water intake as well.
“Making better dietary choices can help you combat inflammation, boost your immune system, and increase your energy levels.”
3. Exercise
Regular exercise keeps you physically fit by strengthening your heart and lungs and lowering your risks for common diseases. Daily exercise can also be a healthy way to boost your mood and reduce anxiety and stress. Whether you're running, dancing, biking, or swimming laps, just 15 minutes of heart-pumping exercise helps release serotonin, making you feel happy and relaxed. If you need to take it slow, don't worry; studies have shown that even smaller movements, such as casual walking, can still do wonders to fight off depression and improve your mood.
4. Learn to Say No
If you're feeling stressed, chances are you have a lot of responsibilities to deal with. Take a step back and consider everything that's on your plate these days. Which areas truly require your devotion and which ones can be let go? Don't be afraid to say no to the things that you don't have to take on. If you don't have enough time to take care of yourself, it's time to take a break from the non-essentials.
5. Take Time to Unplug
It's hard to imagine life without your cell phone at an arm's reach at all times. While technology can make life more entertaining and convenient, it can also have its downsides. Take steps to reduce your screen time by turning off your phone or computer at least two hours before you go to sleep. Keep your devices out of reach when you're eating or in bed. This can help you be more mindful of your surroundings while helping you enjoy the here and now.
6. Connect with Friends and Family
Even the most private people still need social interaction to stay happy and healthy. Real conversations with people who matter to you can improve your confidence and mood while helping you stay connected to others. Take time to chat with a close friend or family member on a regular basis and you can fight off those negative feelings of isolation that make stress and mental health issues worse.
7. Plan a Spa Day at Home
Is there a better way to relax and unwind than an indulging spa day? You can treat yourself to some luxurious spa treatments at home to help you feel pampered. Choose products infused with essential oils, like one of our luxurious body butters, so you can nourish your skin while enjoying the soothing effects of calming fragrances. Try a botanical bath soak, indulge in a relaxing DIY scalp massage, or give yourself a mani-pedi. Don't forget the candles and a relaxing spa playlist to make it extra special.
“Choose products infused with essential oils, like one of our luxurious body butters, so you can nourish your skin while enjoying the soothing effects of calming fragrances.”
8. Connect with Nature
Getting outside can be a powerful way to recharge. Sunlight is known to help improve your mood, so try going for a walk on a sunny day. The fresh air can be soothing while the movement can also help improve your cortisol levels, helping to reduce stress in the process. Don't forget to protect your skin with sunscreen before you head out!
9. Hang Out with a Furry Friend
Owning and caring for a pet can be a very rewarding form of self care. As a pet owner, you can enjoy the boost of confidence, companionship, and empowerment that comes from caring for an animal. However, you don't have to own a furry friend to reap the benefits; spending time with a friend's pet can still improve your mood and reduce your stress.
10. Clean Your House
Keeping your home tidy and clean is a great activity to add to your self care routine. Clearing away clutter can help reduce your anxiety while allowing you to focus better on your everyday tasks, whatever they may be. Cleaning can also be great exercise and it can help activate your brain's reward system for a quick pick-me-up. It's a practical way to get moving while accomplishing an important task that can help you feel better about yourself.
11. Nourish Your Skin
It's important to take steps to care for your body both inside and out. Dry skin can make you feel uncomfortable in more ways than one. Taking just a few minutes to moisturize your skin with a daily moisturizer for nourished, healthy-looking skin.
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12. Meditate
Meditating can bring feelings of calm and peace, improve your sleep and increase your level of focus. It's an effective method for combating stress as well. Less than ten minutes a day on a regular basis can still make a huge impact on your mental and emotional health. If you're new to meditation and aren't quite sure where to start, try an app to help you begin your journey.
A positive self care routine is essential for good health. If you need to relieve stress in your life, even one small change can make a big difference.
