by Sunshima Team
Life can be busy, with many of us rushing around juggling work, family, friends and social life. In this whirlwind of activity, self-care can easily get pushed aside. But here’s the thing: self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential, after all you have to take care of yourself before you can take care of anything else. The problem is making time for yourself when there is so much going on and that needs doing. However, self-care doesn’t have to be bubble baths and meditation retreats (although those sound lovely too). So, here’s are our tips on how you can sneak in little pockets of self-love throughout your day.
The 5-Minute Recharge: Feeling overwhelmed? Take a quick mental break. Close your eyes, take some deep breaths, and focus on the sound of your breath or calming visuals.
Mini-Meditations: Can’t spare 20 minutes for meditation? No worries! Even 5 minutes of mindfulness can make a difference. There are tons of free meditation apps with short guided sessions.
Be Grateful: Shift your focus to the positive. Before bed, jot down three things you’re grateful for, big or small. Feeling thankful for your cuddly cat? Write it down!
Desk Stretches: You don’t need a gym membership to move your body. Simple stretches at your desk can improve circulation and reduce muscle tension.
The Power Walk: Take the stairs! Park farther away and walk. Every little bit counts. Plus, fresh air is a natural mood booster.
Hydrate: Keep a reusable water bottle with you and sip throughout the day. Dehydration can zap your energy and focus. Aim for eight glasses, but even small sips make a difference.
Do Not Disturb: Set boundaries with technology. Schedule specific times to check emails and social media, and silence notifications during your “me-time” moments.
The Joy of “No”: It’s okay to say no! Don’t overload your plate. Prioritise what matters most and politely decline commitments that would stretch you too thin.
Fuel Your Passions: Make time for activities that bring you joy, even if it’s just 15 minutes a day. Read a chapter of your book, paint, cook a delicious meal – whatever sparks your creativity and makes you feel good.
Remember self-care is a journey, not a destination. Some days will be easier than others. Be kind to yourself, celebrate your small wins, and don’t be afraid to adjust your self-care practices as needed. And now for some bonus tips:
Prep is Key: Pack healthy snacks and a reusable water bottle the night before to avoid unhealthy vending machine temptations.
Batch Cook: Dedicate some time on the weekend to cook healthy meals you can grab and go throughout the week.
Delegate and Ask for Help: Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks at work or home. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
By incorporating some of these tips into your daily routine, you’ll be able to practice self-care even with a busy schedule. After all, a happy and healthy you will be better placed to tackle anything life throws your way.