Self-Care

In the spirit of Valentine’s day some reminders to practice self-care. In the broadest sense self-care is about looking after your physical, emotional, and mental health. It is what we do to protect, maintain and improve our well-being. Self-care is not indulgent or ignoring the needs of others. Self-care does not have to be expensive or time-consuming. Through consistent self-care practices, you will feel calmer and more confident in making small positive changes to improve your quality of life. 


One of the best ways I remember to utilize self-care is the oxygen mask analogy. If you have flown on a commercial airline you likely remember the oxygen mask demonstration. In case of an emergency, secure your mask before assisting others. It is hard for me to imagine fitting my own mask before my child. But if I pass out, how can I help anyone? 



Journal or complete a to-do list before bed or first thing in the morning. 

Avoid social media in the morning/evening. Listen to a podcast instead. 

Set goals and develop a realistic plan. 

Talk to yourself with kindness.

Organize a room or workstation. Disorganization and excessive clutter promote anxiety. Start small with one area, shelf or drawer at a time. 

Make your bed every day.

Go outside

Make plans with friends and family. 

Laugh

Secure your oxygen mask- Breathe



5 Self-Care Practices for Every Area of Your Life (verywellmind.com)

Danielle Kowach, LCSW