Checking to make sure the kids have done their homework, checking on family and friends, checking to make sure we have fed our pets and watered the plants before heading out the door, in addition to checking in to see if we have a response to that very important work-related email – sound familiar?

More often than not, we are checking on everyone else but are we checking in with ourselves?

In a world where we are constantly inundated with so much distraction from work, family, and numerous other commitments, it can be so easy to forget to take care of ourselves.

Next time you are on an airplane, pay close attention to the safety presentation, particularly the part where they instruct passengers to “place the mask over your own mouth and nose before assisting others”.

We must be whole and well by taking care of ourselves first before we are able to take care of others.

Self-care is essential to our overall mental, physical and even spiritual well-being…     but what does self-care really mean?

I like to think of self-care as the practice of preserving self through kindness, understanding, and doing things for ourselves that in turn will change the way we think, feel, and behave. When you practice self-care, you are tapping into your inner self by connecting with your thoughts, feelings and emotions and by truly acknowledging your reality.

Don’t wait until you are “burnt out” or stressed to take proactive steps to take care of yourself. Instead, make time for yourself and put yourself on your “to do” list!

Of course, self-care can include different things for different people. What is pleasurable and relaxing to one, may not necessarily be that for another. Self-care can be as simple as taking a walk, or as grand as going away for a weekend or longer to relax and pamper yourself.

Self-care is about doing what makes you whole and happy not anxious and stressed. It should be an intentional mindset that makes your overall health a priority.

Let’s look at a few reasons self-care can be beneficial:

Improves Self-Compassion
Improves Self-Esteem
Improves Energy Levels
Improves Physical Health
Improves Mental and Emotional Health

A Few Examples of self-care activities:

Reading or listening to a Book of choice
Exercising, Hydrating and Getting more sleep
Getting a Massage, manicure, pedicure or facial
Listen to Music or a podcast that Motivates and Inspires
Joining a Club
Painting, Coloring, Doodling
Going on a trip
Turning off your Phone
Going to the Beach
Meditating
Starting a Gratitude Journal
Setting short quiet times in your day
Reciting Positive Affirmations in the Mirror

In this fast- paced world, it is so important to slow down and take time to check in with yourself.

As you can see, there are various things that we can do that won’t take much time or may not cost much money that would be beneficial to our overall well-being. Not sure where to begin? The great thing is there are so many resources out there available to help get us started! 

Check out some of these Self Care Apps and let me know what you think