6 Self-Care Strategies for a Happier, Healthier, You

Many of us keep such hectic schedules these days, it sometimes feels impossible to take a little time out for ourselves. Between work, family routines, household duties and more, our responsibilities can seem endless.

You’ve no doubt heard the phrase “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

The truth is, we’re at a better place to complete our ‘To-Do’ lists and to best support the ones we love when we’re taking care of ourselves. Taking the time to practice self-care and to recharge our bodily batteries helps to enhance our lives. Good self-care habits can positively impact your energy level, mood, physical and mental health, and relationships with others.

Here are some quick, helpful self-care activities to practice as part of your daily routine, to support your overall health and well-being.

Get Good Sleep

Sleep is essential and yet it often doesn’t come easily for some of us. Both the quantity and the quality of sleep are important. Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night. If you have trouble falling or staying asleep, develop a regular wind-down and sleep routine that works for you. Reduce screen time about an hour before bedtime since the blue light from our phones and computers can interfere with our ability to fall asleep. Try relaxation or meditation practices, as these are useful tools that may help you get into sleep mode.

Practice Healthy Eating Habits

What we eat has a big impact on how we think, feel, and perform. To support optimal physical and mental health, focus on a diet that’s rich in colorful fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, lean proteins, and fiber. Be sure to drink plenty of pure, clean water every day for good hydration and a healthy energy level. Enjoy ‘sometimes treats’ in moderation, keeping the emphasis on healthy foods for a healthy body and mind.

Enjoy Physical Activity

Whether it’s a walk around the block or a structured workout, plan to make exercise part of your regular routine during the week. Staying active not only supports good physical health, but it promotes healthy brain function and reduces levels of stress and anxiety. It’s really important to find fitness activities that you like doing. If going to the gym isn’t quite your style, explore other exercise programs or different physical activities that leave you feeling happy and invigorated.

Schedule Some ‘ME’ Time

Taking some time just for you during the day, even if only a few minutes to savor a cup of your favorite tea, is an important part of good self-care. In the midst of your busy day and week, create moments that are yours alone to take a brief timeout to nourish your soul. Engage in activities that you find relaxing. Listening to music, journaling, reading, gardening...these are just some ideas of beneficial self-care practices. The key is to participate in those activities that support your inner bliss and help you feel good.

Connect with Others

Maintaining a feeling of connectedness with others is an important part of taking care of our emotional needs. Having good social supports helps to reduce stress and to promote positive self-esteem. Make it a priority to spend quality time with family and friends. Explore community activities that may interest you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from others, whether it be with specific tasks, or just to have someone to talk with to support you through your challenges.

Stay Positive

It’s estimated that up to 90% of what we say to ourselves in our heads is negative. Learning to change our inner language takes practice, but keeping a positive mindset can have a huge impact on our health. A great way to start practicing more positivity is to have an ‘attitude of gratitude’. Try writing down 3 things that you’re grateful for, either the first thing in the morning or at the end of your day. A conscious effort to be thankful and appreciate everything that we have leads to living happier, more fulfilling lives.

When it comes to self-care, make a commitment to yourself. If you’re not used to prioritizing self-care, try to focus on 1 or 2 of these activities until they become habits. It generally takes 21 days to form a habit. That’s 3 weeks of doing the same thing, the same way, every day! So, give yourself some grace and take baby steps. Be patient with yourself as you develop a healthier self-care routine. You’ll be glad you did.

Written By: Patty Canton