Self-Care: A Revolutionary Practice
by:
Majeedah Johnson IG @MajeedahWroteIt
“Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”
-Audre Lorde, writer, feminist, Civil Rights Activist
It’s all around us … the pressure of staying busy 24/7. Paper chasing, non-stop grinding, and the motto of “sleep when you’re dead” are popular trends today. But let’s be honest, working hard all the time, with little to no rest, can lead to burnout and compromised health. Regardless of how stacked your schedule and commitments are, routine self-care is imperative. As we rush into new initiatives this year, let’s pause and check in with ourselves. When’s the last time you took an intentional break from the hustle and bustle?
Here are some ways to practice self-care:
1. Meditate: Scientific-based benefits of meditation include reduced stress, decreased anxiety, and improved emotional health. You can meditate anywhere. There are different types of meditation. For example, focused-attention meditation is when you focus on one single object, sound or visualization. Getting into a practice of finding calmness can prove beneficial to your life. Breathe in. Breathe out.
2. Writing: Are you trying to schedule time to capture your ideas on paper or jump start a short story or memoir? Does it seem there’s seldom an opportunity to get into writing? If you feel crunched for time, commit to 5-10 minute writing sessions. Set a timer and let it the ideas flow. To capture your ideas, try keeping a pocket-sized journal, audio recorder or download a note-taking app on your phone. Writing can help eliminate stress and assist you in becoming more productive and focused.
3. Eat Healthy: The benefits of eating healthy meals include reduced risks of cancer, improved heart health and stroke prevention and a better mood. In 2016, researchers found that a diet with a high glycemic load may cause increased symptoms of depression and fatigue. If you’re curious about incorporating more healthy recipes into your meal planning, consider downloading recipe apps and checking out food blogs and websites.
4. Exercise: Get your heart rate up and release some stress via a sweaty session at the gym or even in your living room. In the New Year, local gyms, yoga studios and personal trainers often have discounted packages. Exercising doesn’t have to be expensive. Check out local discount stores for jump ropes, yoga mats, and some dumb bells to keep around. Exercise while watching your favorite Netflix show.
5. Spend time in nature: Stress can get to us. It’s natural. Take a walk outside to unwind and center yourself after a taxing day. Check out nearby parks, reserves and forests in your area. Enjoying a brief walk outside can improve your day.
6. De-clutter your space: Organizing your space can promote a sense of accomplishment and provide a boost of energy. When our living and working spaces are out of order, it can promote a sense of anxiety. Let your mind wander as you wash the dishes or turn on a movie and fold the laundry. Clear out your closet and drive those boxes straight to a thrift store.
7. Periodic Checkups: When’s the last time you had a full check up with a physician? Blood work? How is your blood pressure? Is there a nagging ache you’ve had that isn’t going away? Sometimes waiting until tomorrow worsens a situation. That sluggishness could be a sign of hormone imbalance or vitamin deficiency, etc. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be in managing your health. Please schedule your checkups.
7. Therapist: No, you don’t have to do it all right now. And you don’t have to be on all the time for everyone, every event, and every happy hour. The competing pressures of career, school, family, and social life can run us ragged. Luckily, therapy is more accessible today than in previous years. Social media has helped to dilute the stigma around reaching out for help when you need it. It’s okay to talk to someone about your feelings. If price is an obstacle, there are many therapists, in-person and via phone/video chat, that can assist you on a sliding pay scale.
8. Unplug & Do Nothing: Taking a moment for yourself doesn’t have to be elaborate or cost a fortune. Self-care can happen a number of ways. Taking a day to rest and watch your favorite comedy shows can help you recharge through laughter. Take a break from watching the news. Unplug from social media for a few hours, a whole day, or longer. Reclaim your time.
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