Practical tips for bringing more Self-Care into your life
How often do you practice self-care? Seriously, how often? Chances are, not as often as you should.
I know that it is so easy to get consumed with our daily chores that we forget to look after ourselves. I also know how important it is to take the time to look after ourselves to boost our health and happiness.
So, here are some of my favourite tips to help you bring more Self-Care into your life:
Smile or laugh at something funny
When we smile or laugh, we naturally boost the happy hormones in our body as well as boost our immune system. Studies have shown that initially we can fake it if we have trouble genuinely smiling or laughing. Stay tuned for some Laughter Yoga sessions I will be running soon. 😉
Breathe Deeply
When we’re stressed, we don’t breath properly. In fact, our breathing can become quite shallow which impedes our ability to thinking clearly and make good decisions. Periodically during the day, stop and take 3 deep, slow breaths in, and then release the breath just as slowly.
Watch the sunrise
Every day is a new day, and when we get up early to watch the sunrise it can remind us of this and the natural beauty we have all around us. When we tune in to the beauty around us, we naturally feel better about ourselves.
Cook a healthy, home-made meal
Cooking our own meal at home is a great way to connect with the food we are going to eat. And of course, we all know that if we eat healthy, we become healthier… and happier!
Repeat affirmations
Affirmations are a great way to re-program our brain. But we can’t just say an affirmation, we need to feel it. Pick something simple like, I am a good person. Or I deserve good things to happen.
Get out in nature
Getting out in nature has been shown to improve our lung function and our mood. The colours of nature naturally boost our mood and the fresh air helps our lungs detox. It also gives us the opportunity to connect with the natural beauty around us.
Hug someone or yourself
Hugging increases our oxytocin levels which is our feel-good hormone. The hug should last for at least 10-20 seconds, and we should always feel comfortable in the situation. Even hugging our pets can help boost our oxytocin levels.
Go for a long walk
Walking is not only a great, low impact exercise, but going on long walks allows us to get away from technology and embrace the world around us. It can also give our brain a chance to see the world differently and solve any problems we may be facing.
Get some good quality sleep
We all know that good quality sleep is important. It helps us think more clearly, more creatively and increases our productivity. We also feel better after a good night’s sleep. Try listening to your body as to when to go to sleep and switch off from technology at least an hour before bed.
Meditate or pray
Meditating or praying allows our mind to slow down and take a break from the stresses of life. It is also a great way to reconnect with our own inner voice.
Start a journaling practice
Writing down how we feel each day can help us process our daily dramas and experiences. In doing so, it also allows our mind to release the stresses, freeing it up to be able to process and create new solutions to our challenges.
So, there you have it. Some of my favourite Self-Care tips. How many of these can you tick of your list today?
Oh and remember, Happiness Starts with a Smile and Empowerment Starts with a Choice!
