Looking after number one can be tough, especially when there are other people to take care of, life can get so busy and all of a sudden you realize that you’ve paid yourself no attention, so here are a few ways you can look after yourself:
Work Out
Finding time to exercise can be tricky, even if it’s just ten minutes a day, to begin with - make time. Getting up early and getting active clears your head and gets you ready for the day. Then there are the obvious health benefits and socializing.
Sleep Well
There are countless benefits to getting a good night's sleep. The more you get, the happier you are, the better health you have and the better your decision-making will be. Sleeping well also detoxes the brain and recharges your batteries which enables you to do be at the top of your game when you need to be.
Talk To Your Friends And Family
That is what they’re there for. You do it for them so make sure you make the most of them too. Your friends and family are your biggest supporters and even if you are having a very stressful and busy day, pick up the phone for a few minutes to say hi to your Mum or your best friend, and talk about the good things that are happening in their lives. It will keep you grounded.
Improve Your Diet
It might seem a lot to ask but when you get down to it, how long does it actually take to make a nutritious meal instead of putting some processed ready-meal in the oven? There are tools to make prepping quicker or you can buy pre-chopped or spiralized vegetables. Taking care of your body is one of the best things you can do to look after yourself. Make a nice, healthy dinner, and if you make a bit extra, that’s lunch sorted for the next day too.
Ask For Help
Hiring help is one way to do this, and there’s no need to feel bad about this, people make a living off ironing, cleaning, dog walking. If you need some help and have the money, then go for it. If you need help in other ways, then ask for it. Taking yourself off to a yoga retreat or something could be ideal or checking yourself in somewhere to gain a little perspective. Depending on your circumstances and what you need, but according to Safe Harbor House who offers detoxes as well as running a trauma program for women say: “Where there is Love, there is Healing. Stay in the Love.” - Excellent advice.
Plan Ahead
Before you go to bed, create your schedule for the next day; try planning it backward. Try setting a theme for each day of the workweek to keep your productive momentum high. It doesn’t take long, but once you have your head around it, you’ll be sorted.
I am obsessed with the post by Liza's Notebook on self-care lessons my cats have taught me. You need to go and check it out its fantastic.
