In our fast paced world, the term ‘self-care’ is often thrown around on social media, magazines, and friend circles. However, have you ever wondered what self-care actually means for yourself?
Beyond the trendy hashtags and preconceived notions of what self care should entail, figuring out what modern wellness looks like in your life is key to reclaiming a genuine and personal connection with the concept. For some, self care simply means taking time out from daily responsibilities, and for others, it may involve immersing in activities that bring joy and fulfilment. The beauty of self-care lies in its individuality; there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
Today, we share 7 forms of what self care can look like in our modern world.
Treating Yourself To Beauty Therapies
For many, the first and most obvious form of self-care comes in the form of a little TLC and pampering. Whether it’s treating yourself to the latest fat freezing treatment for a snatched waist, or simply carving out some dedicated time for a facial, manicure, or massage, treating yourself to beauty and relaxation therapies is one of the most effective ways to practise self-care in our hectic modern world. Sure, it’s the most obvious way to treat yourself, but for good reason — investing in TLC is a great way to give yourself a much needed break from the hustle and bustle of modern life, allowing you to recharge both physically and mentally.
Nourishing Your Body
When was the last time you had the time to cook yourself a healthy meal? Unfortunately, the urgency and stress of modern life can lead many of us to resort to take out or microwave meals, neglecting the importance of nourishing our bodies with wholesome foods. However, self care starts from within, and consuming a healthy and varied diet is something that should never be left on the backburner.
So, instead of reaching for that take out menu when you’re short on time, consider looking into healthy meal kit subscriptions or exploring simple and quick recipes that you can easily whip up after a long day at work. Remember that your health is the most valuable thing in life, and your body deserves to be fuelled with nutrient-rich choices that support your well-being.
Buying Something Special For Yourself
Are you guilty of pinching pennies and never treating yourself to anything special? Well, times are tough so we certainly don’t blame you. However, as much as scrimping and saving is indeed important for your financial health, practising retail therapy by buying something special for yourself once in a while is also a great way to boost your overall well being.
While we are by no means encouraging you to splash out thousands on impulse purchases, the occasional thoughtful purchase on something special can be a powerful act of self-care. Whether it’s a small trinket, new bedsheets, a fresh bouquet of flowers, or that cake mixer you’ve been eyeing for months, treating yourself to a useful item can be an uplifting and empowering process. Remember, self-love doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag – it’s the thought and intention behind the purchase that truly make it special.
Prioritising Mental Health
Over the last few years, more and more people have been opening up and talking about mental health, and we absolutely love that. Once considered a taboo subject, more and more of us are now realising that mental health is equally important as physical health. With the many demands of modern life, it’s no surprise that so many of us tend to struggle with feelings of depression, anxiety, and a myriad of other emotions that can negatively impact our overall well being.
This is why prioritising mental health by talking to a licensed therapist, or practising mindfulness and meditation techniques can really make all the difference. So, if you’re in need of help, don’t be afraid to reach out. Your mental health matters, and seeking support is a courageous step towards a healthier, more balanced life.
Taking A Digital Detox
Do you find yourself chronically online? Well, join the club. If you’re tired of being bombarded with messages, notifications and a never-ending stream of content that makes you feel more anxious than relaxed, it just might be time for a digital detox. If possible, consider unplugging for the weekend and spending time in nature, or engaging in your favourite hobbies and activities. Disconnecting from the digital world can be a seriously transformative experience, offering a much-needed break from the constant influx of information.
However, if going cold turkey is not an option due to work and personal commitments, the next best option is to set clear boundaries. This could look like implementing a ‘digital curfew’ for yourself in the evenings, where you consciously disconnect from screens at a certain time. Just a few hours of disconnect can do wonders for your wellbeing, so don’t underestimate the power of a few moments away from the screen.
Joining A Gym or Fitness Class
As you probably already know, physical activity is one of the ‘big guns’ in the world of self-care. However, for many of us, the mere thought of exercising can cause great panic, especially when there are so many other responsibilities and chores to tick off the daily list. However, as we mentioned earlier, your health is your most valuable asset, and investing in it by joining a gym or fun fitness class is a great way to prioritise self care. Activity and movement not only contribute to better physical health, but also help your body release endorphins (the happy hormones)that contribute to better mental health and wellness. So, if the idea of hitting the gym sounds slightly overwhelming, consider reframing it as an investment in your overall well-being.
Practising Gratitude
Last but not least, in an age where we are constantly bombarded by the achievement of others on social media, it can be all too easy to compare our lives to everyone else. However, it’s important to remember that life is not a competition, and that we should appreciate everything we have by practising gratitude. Others may have a more successful career, a bigger house, or nicer clothes, but none of that matters.
At the end of the day, it’s about focusing on what you’re lucky enough to have, rather than paying unnecessary attention to what you don’t. By practising gratitude, you contribute to a healthier and more positive mindset that allows you to thrive in a world that is constantly on a mission to make us feel like we’re not enough. You ARE enough, and it’s time to start reminding yourself of that on a daily basis.
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And there you have it — 7 forms that self-care can take in our fast paced and modern world. At the end of the day, it’s all about finding something that helps you unwind, decompress and prioritise your mental and physical wellbeing amidst the chaos of modern life. So, which of these self-care activities will you be taking onboard? Let us know in the comments below. All the best!
