Self-care is becoming more popular, but there are still many people who do not know what self-care means. Or how to do it.
In order to keep your car functioning, you have to take it to the shop every so often. Your body and mind are no different. Routine maintenance is necessary to keep yourself working well. You can’t help others, like friends or family members, if you don’t take care of yourself.
For your body, you might get regular massages. Or go to the gym to work out. Maybe you run, or bike, or rock climb. Self-care can even be as simple as going to a primary care physician for an annual check-up.
To keep your mind working well, some people meditate. Others might see a therapist regularly. You might have a pet that calms you down, or take an occasional day off to sit on the couch and read a book.
There are many different ways to improve your physical or mental health. Are there any in particular that you do? Are there some you wish you, or a family member, would do on a regular basis? Does your job offer any self-care benefits? How do you perform self-care?
Related questions: What does it mean to be healthy? Could everyone benefit from therapy? What makes you the happiest? Shower or bath?
To stay physically fit, I go to the gym three to four times per week, and I eat the same thing for breakfast and lunch on weekdays (making sure to get in ample fruits and veggies each day).
To take care of my mental health, I take my meds for Anxiety and Depression as prescribed and see my therapist as needed. During the winter months, I sit in front of a full-spectrum light — my “happy light” — 30 minutes each morning. During the warmer months, I spend as much time gardening as I can, as it brings me peace.
To take care of my intellectual health, I read for pleasure at least 30 minutes each day, journal daily, and periodically break away from the rest of the world at least 3 times per year to assess my life goals.
To take care of my spiritual health, I work for and contribute to causes I believe in as well as try to live my life with integrity.