“Self-Care…”
A trending topic amongst social media that has swept through timelines with perfectly lit photos of favorite coffee mugs, mimosas, and manicured nails. As a “self care enthusiast” myself, I’m 100% here for a #selfcareSunday. I personally enjoy the awareness that others are now using to take complete control of their own mental and physical health through a little R&R.
But self-care should not be conceptualized as a popular fad that will eventually fade like power beads and bath bombs. With mental illness on the rise, the act of practicing self-care should be etched into one’s daily routine rather than perceived as a concept of self-indulgence or a luxury. As habitual as brushing one’s teeth first thing in the morning is, so should a form of self-care be.
Habit Number 1- Rest Uninterrupted
I’m not 100% sure where it was written that adequate rest was no longer a developmental need as an adult but lack of rest being normalized is problematic. Recent studies have shown that 1 out of 3 Americans are not getting the recommended 7 hours of sleep required. Factors contributing to this include lack of bedtime routines, television, social media, etc. To ensure you are resting properly, revert back to your childhood days and adopt a “Lights Out” approach. Set a bedtime for yourself and press pause on the Netflix series you were binge watching and avoid strolling through timelines until you pass out. Even if you find yourself restless, discipline yourself enough to take advantage and eventually enjoy uninterrupted rest.
Habit Number 2: Water First. Then Coffee.
You know what’s better than a hot cup of coffee to jumpstart your day? A glass of water first. After 6-8 hours of rest allow your body to hydrate and replenish first before you take a sip of Morning Joe. Feeling sluggish first thing? That could be a symptom of dehydration so remember water first then coffee a little later.
Habit Number 3: Grow Your Crowd
It’s a given that seasons will change. But so should our crowd. As we continue to evolve and grow individually, we must be mindful of those that grow with us and be aware of those that aren’t. This doesn’t mean we should love our “Day Ones” any less, but rather give ourselves permission to open up to new people who will enrich our lives through similar life experiences, new common interests, etc.
Habit Number 4: Be #ReadingGoals
Want to personally grow? Then read more. Think of reading as apart of a well balanced diet. What we consume through reading strengthens and conditions our mind by allowing us to more creative, innovative, and motivated.
Habit Number 5 Get a Hobby:
“What do you like to do for fun”?
Full disclosure for years I absolutely hated that question when asked. After becoming a wife and mother, I really struggled with figuring out my interests were outside of my home and family.
However once I began to reflect on my past interests, I was able to reconnect to them to present day. Also be open minded enough to try something new once and allow it be either a hit or miss. Want to try that new spin class or think rock-climbing might your calling? Sign up today!