Liz Tips: 10 Ideas for Self-Care

When you hear the term “self-care”, do you get stressed out? What comes to mind for you? For some people, self-care may mean enjoying a relaxing spa day, for others it may be running ten miles. It’s a very individualistic thing, however the desired end goal is the same: replenish, unwind, reset, and feel better!

If you've been having an exceptionally demanding week, chances are that you could use a little self-care, so let’s take a closer look at ways that you can rejuvenate yourself to keep doing what you do best. Often, if you allow yourself to step away, even for a few minutes, you can re-engage in work with a fresh outlook. This is also true if you set aside a few hours, or a whole day specifically to have a self-care date with yourself. Here are a few ideas to get started.

1. Walk in nature. While many of us work in office environments, “nature” isn’t always conveniently located. If this sounds appealing to you, find a place that resonates with you, take it in, and be present in nature, breathe it in, walk around, touch and observe your surroundings, even if for only a few minutes. This may require walking, biking or driving to your favorite place, but once you connect with it, you will immediately start to feel the benefits.
   

2. Writing or journaling. We can’t always say everything to everybody, right? If you’re having a difficult time with your boss, a coworker, family, friend or situation you’re trying to work through, write it out. In the book, “The Artist’s Way” a concept is described in a technique called “morning pages.” That may not work for everyone, but the basic concept is that all that noise we have in our heads is better purged out into a journal, then the rest of the day is free to work on new projects, or problems. I prefer “night pages” to reflect and clear my mind before sleep, so that I don’t ruminate on the day’s events and am able to sleep.
   

3. Meditate. You don’t need to be a Zen master to meditate. There are ample resources online to learn how, such as guided meditations, lessons on breathing, and more. There are also community groups that provide regular group meditations. The key is, that if it feels right, do it! Once you’re comfortable with the techniques, you can easily walk away from work for a few minutes and enjoy a quick meditation break.
   

4. Take up a hobby. When I was young, I used to enjoy making candles with my mom. It was a great way for us to connect, it’s easy to do, and it was fun coming up with new creations. Some people build model cars or airplanes, others restore classic cars, volunteer, paint, make quilts, knit, sing karaoke… the ideas are endless, you just need to enjoy what you’re doing.
   

5. Listen to music. Confucius said: “Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without.” If it’s the end of the day and you just got home, sit down in your comfortable chair with a hot cup of tea, and turn on your favorite music to relax. Perhaps you could explore new music every week or go out to enjoy live music.
   

6. Quality time with family or friends. Our inner circles are so important to our well-being. If you're lucky enough to have close friends and/or family that you can spend enjoyable time with, do it. A simple hug goes a long way! You can enjoy a nice walk or other activity, relax and catch up with good conversation, or even go dancing or get a good workout in. Being with people you care about is so rewarding.
   

7. Exercise (run, walk, swim, dance, just move your body). Depending on the nature of your work, you may be getting plenty of physical activity at your job. However, so many of us have office jobs where we are sitting most of the day. Moving your body is so important, if it’s simple stretching, yoga, walking, swimming, or something else, find your thing and do it! You’ll feel better.
   

8. Get coached. What’s coaching? In simple terms, it is a process that aims to improve performance and focuses on the ‘here and now’ rather than on the distant past or future. If you’re having a difficult time motivating yourself, procrastinating on getting things done that you’d like to be doing, or want to improve your life in other ways, a coach can help you get on track and start living your best life possible.
   

9. Acupuncture or massage. When you are laying on a table for an hour, with the sole intention to relax and feel better, it is a highly effective means of self-care. Set aside just one or two hours per month, and you will give your body something to look forward to. Reward yourself for working hard on the job, and in your life with this simple treat.
   

10. Try a new activity. Perhaps your friends are making jewelry or building furniture and you’re interested in trying it out. There are many affordable classes at local community colleges, or other local groups where you can try your hand at new activities that may resonate with you.

This is only a short list of self-care suggestions, as every individual is unique and what works for your closest friend, may not work for you. You must take care of yourself to provide better care for others. Experiment a little to find your own thing, relax and take care of yourself!

Are you ready to improve some area in your life with coaching? Reach out to start a conversation liz@goalreaper.com

© 2019 GoalReaper. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site's author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to GoalReaper with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.