Sweet, Simple Self-Care

by Jodh Kaur

According to Oxford, the definition of self-care is: The practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's own health. The practice of taking an active role in protecting one's own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress.

But, please do not wait for stress to be the catalyst to begin protecting your well-being and happiness.

Self-care. It can feel daunting (and expensive!), especially when stressed and feeling short on time. We’ve all been there… I need to create a self-care routine… I will book monthly massages, get back into running (but first, I need new running shoes), start eating healthier, take yoga classes…

And then a month later, where do we find ourselves? Often in the same place, but feeling worse about ourselves because we didn’t follow through with our plans, again. 

But, don’t be discouraged. Self-care can actually be small, simple, nurturing habits that can be folded into everyday life. Remember, it’s about protecting your well-being and happiness.

Here are some suggestions to begin building self-care into your life (start with one each day - you can always add more):

• Have a daily laugh.
• Eat one of your daily meals, consciously. Sit down and enjoy your meal, free from all distractions. Chew each bite thoroughly. Breathe. 
• Have gratitude.
• Go for a walk around the block, look up at the trees. 
• Take a break from social media. 
• Sit down for 3 minutes, breathe long and deep. Focus on expanding with your inhale and relaxing with your exhale.
• ​Chant your favorite mantra - this can be done anywhere at anytime.

These moments add up and improve the quality of your life. In taking time for yourself, you honor yourself. This practice creates more space in your life allowing you to be more joyful, engaged, energetic, productive and passionate.