Many of us are guilty of getting so wrapped up in the busyness of life and the needs of others that we completely forget to care for ourselves. If we constantly pour ourselves out for other people—whether our families, friends, bosses or coworkers—and we don’t take the time to fill ourselves back up, we are left empty. We can quickly become exhausted and depressed.
Mental, emotional, and physical self-care are vital pieces of the mental health puzzle. Make sure you take the time to put those pieces into place.
Check out this list of self-care habits, and even some indulgences, you should make time for:
- Play some music by your favorite childhood artists.
- Write in a journal or notebook. Your writings could include your thoughts and musings, random poems or song lyrics, or anything else you feel like writing.
- Color an intricate pattern in an adult coloring book.
- Drink eight glasses of water every day.
- Watch your favorite movie or television show of all time.
- Go for a walk around your block or through a nearby park.
- Volunteer an hour or two at a local food bank or clothes closet.
- Wash your bedding, then…
- Take a nap, and don’t feel guilty about it.
- Read a book about a topic you’re interested in or have always wanted to learn more about.
- Make yourself a cup of hot tea or iced coffee.
- Call up a friend or family member to say hello. Talk about the events going on in your life, and listen closely while they talk about theirs.
- Visit a museum close to you. Take your time walking through it.
- Watch a YouTube video about how to make a fun craft. Give it to a loved one, or keep it to yourself.
- Buy a few children’s books from a secondhand store or dollar store. Donate them to a local daycare or elementary school.
- Write a card or a letter to a friend you have lost contact with throughout the years.
- Take a long bath or shower and use your favorite body care products.
- Watch a funny YouTube video compilation.
- Play or cuddle with an animal, whether yours or that of a loved one.
- Practice doing yoga or pilates.
- Swim. If it’s summer, go to an outdoor pool, and if it’s not, check out your local community center or fitness center.
- Ask a friend or family member to meet you for a cup of coffee or a bite to eat.
- Download a silly game on your phone. Take a few minutes to play it when you feel stressed or down.
- Search for inspirational quotes online. Write down your favorites on sticky notes and place them where you’ll see them every day.
Self-care is important, but if you need extra help maintaining your mental health, reach out to us. We are here to help.