Self-care...a phrase we’ve probably all heard more over the last year than ever before. And rightfully so, given everything 2020 had to offer. Now, more than usual, it is necessary for us to be mindful of our mental health and make time to take care of ourselves. As a new (and first time) mom during the Covid pandemic, this is something I have had to be intentional about putting into practice.
But what is self-care? How does one do it?
What I find interesting about self-care is how individualized it is, so what works for me may not work for someone else. And vice versa. With that in mind, the most important “how” is to know yourself. You have to be in tune with yourself so you can recognize what you are feeling and what will best serve you in that moment. For example, when my mind is too busy to relax, I have to do something physical. I choose to go for a walk or practice yoga. If I need quiet time to myself, a book and a hot bath are just what the doctor ordered.
From my experience, self-care doesn’t have to be a grand production. It can be showering for a few extra minutes, indulging in a piece of chocolate, ordering food instead of stressing over preparing a meal, or binge-watching a show.
Self-care is a form of self-love. Like showing your love to others, you have to recognize what you need and make it happen.
Katy's Self-Care Tips
1. Make time for self-care.
2. Figure out what you are feeling and what you need.
3. Keeping it simple is a good option.
4. Self-care is self-love.
5. Just like you take care of others, take care of yourself.