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Have you ever wondered why flight crew always say:
"In the event of a sudden drop in cabin pressure, place the oxygen mask on yourself first before assisting others."
Well, it’s because the people who depend on you suffer if you’re not taking care of yourself. This analogy is a perfect example of the importance of self-care.
For many of us, taking time out of our lives to focus on “me” seems selfish, indulgent, and neglectful to the people around us. When we have loved ones, kids, partners, or even colleagues who depend on us, the guilt of something as self-serving as “me time” can be too much to bare.
But what if self-care wasn’t selfish?
Just as we need to take care of ourselves in order to be able to help others in an aeroplane emergency, we also need to take care of ourselves in our daily lives in order to be able to help our loved ones too.
Let’s start at the start - What is “Self-care”?
In simple terms, it’s the act of taking care of ourselves physically, emotionally, and mentally.
It involves engaging in activities that help us to recharge, refresh, and rejuvenate. Self-care is essential for maintaining good health and well-being, and it can help to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase our overall sense of happiness and fulfilment.
When we neglect self-care, we are more likely to experience burnout, fatigue, and stress. We become less effective and less able to help others. Just like the oxygen mask on an aeroplane, we need to put our own needs first. When we prioritise self-care, we are better equipped to handle the challenges and demands of daily life and to support those around us.
So, what does self-care look like in practice?
It's not just face masks and bubble baths. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, because self-care activities are unique from person to person. Just remember, it's about setting the intention.
Even a cup of morning coffee can be self-care if you set the intention to simply enjoy your task, let it recharge you, and hold that space for yourself.
For those of us with busy schedules, remember that self-care activities include getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, practising mindfulness, spending time with loved ones, and doing things that bring us joy and fulfilment. These acts don't require you to take out any extra time from your day. They can be incorporated into your daily life.
By taking care of ourselves, we become better equipped to handle the challenges and demands of daily life and to support those around us. So, don't forget to prioritise self-care in your daily life. It will help you to feel happier, healthier, and more fulfilled, and it will allow you to be there for others when they need you the most.
Here are 10 more examples of self care to get you inspired:
Exercise: Engaging in physical activity, whether it be going to the gym, taking a yoga class, or simply going for a walk, can help to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase overall physical health.
Sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential for good health and well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to feel refreshed and rejuvenated.
Eating a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet that is rich in nutrients and low in unhealthy processed foods can help to improve physical and mental health.
Relaxation and stress management techniques: Practising relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
Spending time with loved ones: Spending time with family and friends can help to improve social connections and boost happiness levels.
Pursuing hobbies and interests: Engaging in activities that bring us joy and fulfilment, such as painting, writing, or playing a musical instrument, can help to reduce stress and increase happiness.
Getting a massage or spa treatment: Taking time for self-care, such as getting a massage or spa treatment, can help to reduce stress and improve physical and mental health.
Taking a break from technology: Spending time away from screens and devices can help to reduce stress and improve focus and productivity.
Journaling: Writing in a journal can help to reduce stress, improve self-awareness, and boost overall well-being.
Volunteering or helping others: Engaging in acts of kindness and helping others can help to improve mood and increase overall sense of purpose and fulfilment.
If you would like extra support on your self-love and personal development journey, reach out to us for a private one-on-one counselling session to get you started on the right path. You can contact us via our website, or make a FREE consultation booking directly here.
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