By Marcia Murphy, MA, LPC
When “self-care” is mentioned, the first things that typically come to mind are spa treatments, massages, a good meal or sweet treat – all good things, but usually are just fleeting pleasures rather than contributing to lasting well-being. There are activities that we can bring into our daily lives that truly enhance our self-care down to the soul level that last much longer than the time it takes to eat a chocolate bar. Here are some of the ways we can truly care for ourselves that have long-term effects.
1. Sleep and eating habits
Yes, we all know that we need good sleep and healthy food, yet we often sell ourselves short on giving ourselves what our bodies need. Sleep and nutrition are well-linked to our mood, energy level and ability to think clearly. Making sure we are meeting these basic needs I would call the highest form of self-care so that we can show up as the best form of ourselves every single day.
2. Slowing down the pace of life
Running at the frantic pace that life tends to require is sure to deplete us more than we’d like to admit. Whether it is family, work obligations or our own inner critic telling us we must not take a break, we run ourselves to exhaustion on a regular basis. It can be great self-care to slow down and appreciate what is in front of us rather than always rushing to the next thing. Although having goals is good for our sense of self-worth, enjoying the journey at a slower pace can also be very uplifting. Are there things that can be let go of to help create more space to appreciate life as it is?
3. Mindfulness activities
Along the same lines is mindfulness – or being fully present in every activity and aspect of life. Most of the time, we find ourselves running on autopilot, in our own heads, not noticing anything that is around us. Developing mindfulness can include breathing exercises, relaxation, slow enjoyment of a meal, or the experiencing of what all the senses are bringing in at any moment. And yes, it can also include a massage or yummy dessert!
4. Disconnecting from technology
We have the world at our fingertips 24 hours a day, and this can create anxiety, distraction, FOMO and even an addiction to being always connected. When we lack boundaries between work and personal life because of over-accessibility, or are guided by what we see on social media, we lose the feeling that our lives are in our control. We fall into the detrimental habits of comparison and meeting an unrealistic standard that we create for ourselves. Taking a break from tech – putting away the phone, computer, tablet, etc. – even if just for a short period of time – can help us bring enjoyment, control and freedom back into our lives. What are we missing out on because we are so connected? Put the phone away and find out!
5. Giving to others
One of the best proven ways to care for ourselves is to give to others, whether it is family, friends, neighbors or strangers. When we experience the positive feeling that comes from giving of ourselves in any way, we find that this generosity expands our own happiness. Find somewhere you can give to another person with no expectation of anything in return, whether for your family, friends or even in volunteering, and see how it affects your soul.
6. Bringing nature in
The experience of the natural world is also a wonderful form of self-care that is easy and free to engage in. Taking regular walks in a natural setting – in the woods, by a stream, on the beach – is very uplifting for the soul. Even sitting on a deck watching the neighborhood wildlife can be so enjoyable! Decorating your home with houseplants can also be calming and comforting. Nature has a “natural” way of bringing peace that nothing else can, and can be a good way to ground yourself by disconnecting from life pressures for a period of time.
7. Gratitude for what is
Focusing only on all the things we want and don’t have detracts from our ability to find contentment in life. When we set the intention of gratitude each and every day, we can let go of unnecessary desires and increase our enjoyment of life just as it is. For the most part, we typically have all that we could ever need and have much abundance in life – not just in possessions, but in love from family and friends, in enjoyable activities, and even in our faith. Being grateful for all we do have allows us to care for our inner spirit that can affect all that we do in a positive way.
As we begin 2025 and make those resolutions for ourselves, why not include some of these life-changing habits and mindsets toward self-care that can bring about greater well-being? You do not have to try all of these at once – pick one or two that make the most sense for where you are and see if it helps increase your mood and happiness overall. And make that appointment for the mani-pedi too!
Let Us Help
Are you in need of help to reset and focus on yourself in the new year? Here at Lime Tree Counseling, we have skilled and caring counselors that are ready to work with you in whatever you need to care for yourself. We have expertise in addiction counseling, trauma counseling, emotional abuse, and anxiety therapy. We offer sessions both in person at our Lower Gwynedd, PA office, or through online counseling in Pennsylvania. Please contact our office to set up an appointment for your intake session or a free 15-minute phone consultation, and start the new year with a new focus on well-being!