Self-care consists of daily doses of activities that keep the mind and body connected and healthy. Self-care isn’t selfish; rather, it’s vital to keep people from burning out. Self-care can vary from day to day as needs change but there are some aspects of self-care that are go-to ways to refresh, energize, and keep the mind and body happily connected.
Self-care can happen preventively or to recharge and renew after a particularly difficult time. Having a tool kit of sorts can be a handy way to plug into self-care options when it’s time to refresh or the going gets tough.
A self-care tool kit might be a tangible thing like keeping your favorite candy on hand for a sweet treat now and then. It can also represent keeping the contact info for your massage therapist in your phone to easily make an appointment.
Your tool kit won’t look like anyone else’s because it will be filled – metaphorically or literally – with the things that refresh your mind and body. Here are some ideas of items to have in your self-care tool kit.
A calendar – Schedule self-care activities that help you feel refreshed and renewed. Some activities could include:
- Date night
- Spa day
- Massage or acupuncture
- Therapy
Engaging in regularly scheduled activities not only helps you feel and look your best, it gives you something to look forward to. Having at least one scheduled self-care activity on your weekly calendar can help re-energize your spirits.
A creative outlet – Creativity feeds the soul. Being able to express yourself is a way of releasing tension, refueling your spirit, and finding peace and harmony between your mind and body. Here are some fun ways to express yourself through creativity:
- Garden
- Coloring, painting, drawing
- Cooking
- DIY projects
Being creative uses your brain in very specific ways and the processes of creativity help reduce anxiety, high blood pressure, and more.
Solid friendships – Toxic people bring you down. Grounded people who bring their best selves to the table are part of an essential self-care tool kit. We aren’t meant to do life alone. Here are some fun ways to use solid friendships as a self-care tool:
- Book clubs
- Meet up groups
- Coffee dates
- Progressive dinner parties
Organized group events and spontaneous get-togethers are an excellent way to re-energize and get invigorated. Being able to connect with high-quality friends is important for a healthy mind and body.
Having a “tool kit” on hand of the activities you enjoy to refresh and recharge can help you when you’re burned out and feeling overwhelmed. Reach into your kit, grab the right tool, and you’re set.
