Simple and effective ways to practice self-care this week

“With every act of self-care your authentic self gets stronger, and the critical, fearful mind gets weaker. Every act of self-care is a powerful declaration: I am on my side, I am on my side, each day I am more and more on my own side.” -Susan Weiss Berry

Life can be incredibly stressful. Sometimes we get so caught up in a fast paced life that we forget to pause and make time for ourselves. It is so important to be selfish sometimes and to put yourself first, otherwise you might end up feeling exhausted, irritable and empty. Here are some things you can try over the next week to make sure you're receiving what you need in order to replenish your spirit:

1) Practice gratitude:

This is one of my favorite quotes by Lynne Twist (yes, I love quotes): "For me, and for many of us, our first waking thought of the day is "I didn't get enough sleep." The next one is "I don't have enough time." Whether true or not, that thought of not enough occurs to us automatically before we even think to question or examine it. We spend most of the hours and the days of our lives hearing, explaining, complaining, or worrying about what we don't have enough of... Before we even sit up in bed, before our feet touch the floor, we're already inadequate, already behind, already losing, already lacking something. And by the time we go to bed at night, our minds are racing with a litany of what we didn't get, or didn't get done, that day. We go to sleep burdened by those thoughts and wake up to that reverie of lack"

This week, every morning before you get out of bed (and before you check your phone), list at least 3 things that you're grateful for, and 3 things that you love about yourself. Try to be mindful of the language you're using too, try not to gossip, complain or criticize unnecessarily. Hopefully, by the end of the week, you will see a huge difference and notice how much energy you were spending on negative thoughts and words.

2) Treat yo'self:

This is probably one of the most important things on this list. As people, we are constantly working hard in order to progress in life. Students study hard to get good grades on tests and exams. At work, we're trying to fulfill our obligations and possibly get a promotion or a raise. We hardly ever reward ourselves for a job well done. This week, instead of searching for validation from other people, why don't you try treating yourself whenever you feel you have done a really good job on something? Be your own cheerleader. Don't wait for others to appreciate you.

3) Stay active:

We all knew this one was coming. Whether you enjoy going to the gym, going for a run or doing yoga; make sure you aren't just staying indoors most of the time. Being active has both physical and mental benefits. It's also a natural mood booster and helps to alleviate stress and anxiety.

4) Meditate:

Meditating can really change the way you start your day. Try some deep breathing exercises and try not to let your mind wander on to things that need to be done that day. I've just started using the Headspace app and it's been helpful so far.

5) Take yourself out for coffee or lunch:

Too many people think this is weird but there is actually something so liberating and peaceful about going out for coffee/ brunch/ lunch alone. If you're not used to this kind of thing, start small and go out for coffee first. Make sure you take something to keep yourself busy; your phone or a book will do. Or you could take a crossword puzzle like I do. This will help you feel more comfortable and less awkward because you'll have something to do while waiting for your order.

6) Live in this moment:

Turn off your phone every now and then and be present in the moment. Many people, myself included, have the tendency to dwell on situations that may or may not happen in the future. Or, they focus on things that have happened and think about how things could have played out differently. Setting goals and self-reflection is important and necessary, but it's equally important to make sure you're actually living your life instead of letting life happen to you. Take control of your thoughts and be present in this moment right here. The rest will eventually fall into place.

Thabile x

#selfcare #health