Okay, let’s be real here… have you been taking care of yourself?? No really, have you ACTUALLY been taking care of yourself? I don’t mean making sure you slept well and ate food, but also taking care of your health – mental, emotional, physical, all of it. Sometimes, we get so busy. We have so many new goals and things we want to do. It’s time for a new semester of school, or getting back in the swing of things for work, or even starting a new job or project, etc. There’s so much going on! So have you made sure to dedicate some time for self-care?

Here are some ways to practice self-care!

1. Prioritize yourself!

What is something you want to do? Short-term, long-term, personal, professional, etc? Do you have goals for yourself purely for yourself? Take the time to write or type out your goals and wants! 

2. Get rid of bad habits.

This one is a bit more in-depth self-care. I think it’s self-care because you want to be the best you can be. If you’re in the habit of going back to toxic relationships, that’s something you could work on. It contributes to your mental and emotional being, which is super significant. Do you procrastinate and then get super stressed? What are some ways that would help you destress – planning ahead, dedicating rest days, etc?

3. Cleanse your space!

Literally and metaphorically! A clean and tidy environment could help you focus better and stay focused. Surrounding yourself with genuine support is very encouraging and caring when you are down or need some help here and there. When there’s just good vibes, you can focus on you. That’s not a guarantee that everything will be positive from then on, but at least when you have a down day, there won’t be more to pile on top of it. 

4. Have an outlet.

This one may not necessarily fit the image of “self-care” that is all spa essentials, candles, bath bombs, and etc. Have an outlet, like a folder full of cute animal pictures for a sad day, a diary to write your thoughts, a punching bag to let out your anger, or painting to just let loose. Have a way to release your emotions and feelings, whether alone or with others. This is such an important part of self care because when we try to suppress emotions and hide feelings, eventually things explode or bubble to the surface when we don’t want them to. 

5. Do something you enjoy!

This can be a hobby you decided to pick up. You don’t have to keep the hobby if you lose interest in it! You can find another hobby or interest, whatever it is that you enjoy at the time! If you haven’t had time to do something you enjoyed in a while, make the time. It doesn’t have to be everyday or every week, just once in a while, remember it and do what brings you joy! Kind of like a refresher, or a pause button, or whatever you need it to be in such a busy world.

How are you practicing self-care?