Self-care means caring for yourself, both on physical and mental levels. It focuses on your emotional needs as well. Self-care differs from person to person depending on their specific needs. Society has led us to believe that prioritizing oneself above others is selfish, and hence most people neglect self-care routine.
In this article, we will be discussing the importance of self-care along with its types. We will also be presenting a set of effective self-care practices for mental health.
Why Self-Care is Important?
Neglecting self-care can lead to emotional exhaustion, an increase in stress levels, or can turn into burnout. You might get depressed and feel overwhelmed. And all this will not only affect you physically and mentally but also take a toll on your life. Your work, academics, relationships, everything will be affected.
Self-Care Types
1. Physical self-care
It involves activities that affect your physical health. Adequate sleep, dietary choices, and exercise are a part of physical self-care.
2. Emotional self-care
In today’s world, several people experience anxiety, stress, and depression. All this hampers our emotional well-being. Journalling, meditation, or taking therapy sessions are a part of emotional self-care.
3. Mental self-care
Mental self-care helps in keeping you healthy psychologically. Indulging in your favorite pastimes or spending time with nature can improve your mental well-being.
4. Social self-care
We are connected with everyone online but are unaware of the people around us. Loneliness and isolation can affect you both physically and mentally. Socialize with people that are around you and spend time with them. You can also volunteer for group activities with strangers to form new bonds.
5. Spiritual self-care
You may be a science freak or may believe in God, but one thing is clear. There is a higher power, and bowing to it kind of makes you feel secure. You might enjoy nature or pray to a higher power, whatever helps you attain peace.
Related: Benefits of Minimalism in Everyday Life
List of Effective Self-Care Practices for Mental Health
1. Exercise daily, you do not need to do weight training. Spending 30 minutes a day by simply walking in a park can help you feel energized.
2. Take a break from your digital devices before bedtime and cultivate a healthy sleep cycle.
3. Eat meals that have well-balanced ingredients and reduce your intake of caffeine and alcohol. Drink plenty of water, after all healthy guts make you mentally happy.
4. Meditate, listen to music, read a book, or simply sit down in the lap of nature. Relax and enjoy these precious moments.
5. Start journalling, write down a breakdown of your daily activities to release stress.
6. Try to remain positive, and appreciate what you have.
7. Connect with your loved ones and enjoy their company.
8. Learn to say no to things and people that affect your mental health. You might be termed selfish but remember if you are not healthy mentally, you cannot take care of anyone else.
We hope that you will use these effective self-care practices for mental health. Give yourself a break, enjoy your hobbies, and spend time with your loved ones. You matter first, make this your life’s motto and you will be happy.
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