It’s time to check in with yourself. How have you been doing lately? After an unprecedented pandemic which continues to rage on, coupled with a figurative mountain of other stressful events in the world, we all deserve to be kind to ourselves. Quite frankly, life has been hard lately on us all. That’s why we encourage you to take part this September in National Self-Care Awareness Month.
It’s a month dedicated to checking in with yourself, being kind to your inner monologue and truly making sure you get what you need to fill up your cup. Check out these ideas to participate this month, and make self-care a part of your routine moving forward throughout the year!
Talk to Somebody
Pick up the phone, and call a friend to talk about the important things going on in your life. Sometimes it’s helpful and therapeutic to get the thoughts in your head out into the universe. If you feel comfortable, therapy or counseling are wonderful options for a no-judgement, unbiased third party to listen to what’s been going on in your life. Consider making an appointment to talk it out with a professional who can help you with your everyday life or even your biggest struggles.
Exercise
Even a small amount of exercise can help you release positive hormones that make you feel great. The exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous. Switch up one of your sit-down meetings for a walking meeting each day and try to get in 30 minutes of movement. It’s all about moving, no matter how fast or slow you go. Anything helps your body release feel-good endorphins.
Eat Well
Have you been getting your fruits and veggies lately? Taking a look at your diet can be a great form of self-care because it helps you feel better physically. Consider using a food diary to track what you eat on a day-to-day basis. Try to make small improvements. Pick one thing you’d like to get better at and start there. These can be small changes that add up over time!
Volunteer
Giving back to others can help fill up your metaphorical cup. Find an organization where you love to volunteer your time and help others. Even though this is called “self-care,” volunteering has been proven to help improve your mood. How could you not leave feeling happy about having helped others?! The truth is, it’s nearly impossible.
Treat Yourself
While it’s true that self-care is not all about bath bombs or face masks, there’s something to be said about doing the things that relax you. Maybe you’re a full-time mom who never has the chance to take a moment by yourself. In that case, a bath bomb or face mask by yourself for a specified amount of time to unwind may be the perfect self-care tactic you need. Meditation, while using some of these items to relax, is a wonderful way to unwind.
Think about the things you enjoy doing that are a form of stress relief and make you truly happy. Run toward those activities and make the time to partake! This September, remember to put yourself first. When you do this, you’re more likely to be able to give 100 percent to those around you as well. In order to make a difference in the world, it all starts with you!
