Keys to Success – Self Care

If everything is going well for you, but you’re still not feeling happy about your life take a look at how you’re treating yourself. Increasing your self-care is a sure fire way to increase your overall happiness.  Here are strategies you can use to up the level of care your giving yourself.

Learn to relax.

Rest and relaxation are critical to managing stress and minimizing anxiety. Those who find it difficult to let go and relax may find yoga, breathing or stress management classes helpful. Regulating your breath has a calming effect on the mind and loosens tension held in the body. Sitting quietly at home for 5-10 minutes each day to simply be aware of your breathing can enhance relaxation.

Move around every day.

Exercise and movement can include gardening, playing with your pets, shopping, invigorating sex, etc. Try to get moving at least 20-60 minutes each day (it doesn’t have to be at one time.)

Get enough sleep.

Good sleep involves cutting out caffeine after 3 PM, turning off electronics two hours before bedtime, eating your last meal two or more hours before you turn in for the night, going to bed early enough to get 6-8 hours of sleep and darkening the room you sleep in. Getting enough good sleep is essential to your well-being so make it a priority.

Keep up with your medical needs.

Annual physicals, biannual dental checkups and cleanings, and mammograms are proactive habits for good health. Many advocate an annual mental health screening, which may be part of the annual physical at some point.

Treat yourself regularly.

See a movie, eat dinner at a nice restaurant, sit in the park, get a massage, buy yourself flowers – whatever you enjoy – do that for yourself.

Engage in good conversation.

Spending time with good friends or engaging in stimulating conversation with someone at work is good for the soul (mind and body). When we share our thoughts with others, we establish an emotional and mental connection that can be refreshing and heartwarming.

Be grateful and positive.

Little things like saying thank you to someone for a small gesture such as holding the door, expressing your appreciation to a spouse/partner, coworker or child and writing thank you notes for gifts can make a difference for both you and the other person. Write down several things each day that you are grateful for or appreciate. It helps to identify five things at the end of the day that went well or left you feeling gratitude.

Daily Self-Care Rituals That Soothe

It’s important to take care of you! These self-care rituals will help you soothe your mind, body, and soul, contributing to joyous and fulfilling days.

• Take time to do something you really love to do
• Meditate to clear your mind, strengthen your focus, and gain peace
• Go outdoors to re-acquaint yourself with nature
• Stay in touch with your feelings
• Exercise to relieve your stress and rejuvenate both your mind and body
• Practice soothing, healthful skin care
• Take a luxurious bath or shower. Include candles, soft music, or soothing oils.

Access your Self Care – How are you Treating yourself?

Rate each statement with one of the following:  1 – Rarely     2 – Sometimes      3 – Frequently

___ I get plenty of rest and sleep 7-8 hours daily.

___ I eat healthy foods and regular meals.

___ I maintain contact with people who support me emotionally.

___ I exercise 30 minutes or more 3-5 times per week.

___ I take a break at work every 1 – 1.5 hours to stretch and move around.

___ I engage in spiritual activities regularly.

___ I play! I do something fun at least once a week.

___ I nurture my relationships – call/write/email/visit/talk/date.

___ I get outside daily – the fresh air and lush greenery are good for me!

___ I use my downtime to rejuvenate – do something I enjoy.

Scoring:

Review your responses and consider the following for each statement.

1 – Rarely – Needs improvement – let’s talk about how to strengthen this area.

2 – Sometimes – Good job! We can come up with ideas to help you be more consistent.

3 – Frequently – Great job! Keep up the good work!

Here’s to creating the life you LOVE!