Practicing self care appears difficult in an environment that promotes hustle culture. And it seems even more abstract when combined with a busy woman’s routine. But it is not as difficult as you think. Here are 11 simple ways for you to practice self care.
I understand that on days when you have a long list of to-dos, self care is the last thing on your mind. But skipping your meals, sitting in front of computers for hours and neglecting your health is not the way to achieve your goals.
Self-care is not selfish; it is preventative.
If you don’t feel your best, you won’t be able to be your best self. Here are some practical ways to practice self care without making it a chore.
Keep these two tips in mind as you practice these self-care ideas.
- Use the suggestions below to develop a self-care routine. Taking care of yourself will become second nature to you, just like brushing your teeth.
- Create a compound effect. Connect self care with your existing habits. As a result, whenever you do one thing, you are reminded of the other. For example, journaling before going to bed.
Related Post : 7 Day Self Care Challenge
11 Simple Ways To Practice Self Care
Here are a few ideas to help you practice self care everyday.
1. Have A Morning Routine
Start your day by prioritizing yourself. Mornings are ideal for some alone time. Because once you’re out the door, a million other things are competing for your attention.
And I know your mornings are busy. But spending some time to yourself will help you better prepare for the day ahead. Create a morning routine, even if you only have 10 minutes. Nobody’s too busy for that, right?
Having a morning routine allows you to start your day in a proactive mode (you control your day) rather than a reactive mode(others control your day).
Here are some ideas to create your ideal morning routine.
2. Practice Gratitude For Self Care
It’s important to constantly remind yourself of all the positive things in your life. By practicing gratitude, you’re able to take better care of yourself and those around you.
Simply write down three things you’re thankful for in your journal or phone notes. You can try this in the morning, on your way to work, or before going to bed.
This practice will force you to focus on the positive aspects of your daily life that you might otherwise overlook.
Related Post : 8 Simple Ways To Practice Gratitude (If You Find It Hard)
3. Let Your Creativity Flow
The simplest way to recharge yourself is to do more of what makes you happy. Take some time to indulge in your hobbies, whether it’s football, painting, dancing, or singing. Or try learning new things that pique your curiosity.
You can schedule time on the weekends. And trade your Netflix hours for your hobbies and end up feeling more refreshed.
4. Journal
Throughout the day, you are constantly bombarded with information from all directions. But you rarely take the time to sit down and process your thoughts. That’s why it’s important to keep a journal.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, do a brain dump. If you want to increase your self awareness, use self discovery journal prompts. You can also use a bullet journal if you can express yourself better through art than through words.
5. Do Nothing
It is not always necessary to do something and TRY being productive. In fact, sitting in silence and practicing mindfulness is essential. This improves your focus and, as a result, your productivity.
You can practice mindfulness at work during your lunch breaks. Simply eat lunch alone and allow your thoughts to flow. Or while taking an evening walk, turn off your technology and focus on your surroundings. Alternatively, instead of worrying about how your day went, try to be more present on your way home.
6. Breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. If you don’t have time to prepare something in the morning, opt for something simpler, such as oats. You can also try meal prepping.
A healthy breakfast gives you energy and compels you to make healthier choices throughout the day. Also, don’t forget to drink plenty of water.
Nourishing your body is an important part of self care. To serve as a reminder, use this 3L water bottle or a water tracking app.
7. Move Your Body
Take care of your body, it’s the only one you’ve got! As a busy woman, you tend to neglect your physical health when work overburdens you.
How many times have you promised yourself you’d go to the gym only to cancel later?
Even if you can’t go to the gym, make time to move your body. Instead of using lifts, take the stairs. Every now and then, get out of your seats and stretch. Take an evening walk with your partner or walk your dog.
8. Meditate
Meditation allows you to observe your thoughts and feelings rather than numbing them. It helps you in becoming more self-aware and understanding.
The most basic form of meditation is to close your eyes and concentrate on your breathing. Allow your thoughts to flow without judgement.
I understand that meditation may appear to be a chore, especially on days when you have a lot on your plate. However, as the old zen proverb goes,
“Meditate for 20 minutes every day, unless you’re too busy – then meditate for an hour.”
9. Get Enough Sleep
I know you’ve got deadlines but surviving on 5 hours of sleep everyday won’t help. Of course, once in a while is okay.
This will only make you more sluggish and disorientated. And eventually take toll on your body. Make sure to complete your 8 hours. You’ll feel more energized and active the next day.
10. Learn To Say No
Saying no to things you don’t want to do will solve half of your problems. When you have a lot on your plate, it’s a good idea to delegate tasks to others around you.
Also, you’re not obliged to say yes to everything. If you don’t feel like working on a task, let your lead know. If you don’t want to have lunch with your friends, say no without feeling guilty.
11. Plan Time For Self Care
Would you ever miss a meeting with an important client? No, I suppose. So, start treating your self-care meetings with the same seriousness.
Schedule some time for self care in your weekly routine. Plan your ideas for a self-care Sunday and use this time to rejuvenate yourself.
Pssstttt. . . Are you having trouble prioritizing self care? The ‘Design Your Life’ Planner can help you find out the self care habits that work for you and how to make time for them. Without feeling guilty! You can get the planner at a discounted price here!
How Will You Practice Self Care Now?
Leave a comment below mentioning how you include self care in your busy routine. Change your life one step at a time. Choose an idea and stick with it until it becomes a part of your routine. And soon enough, you’ll be able to balance self care with work.
