Are you too busy to take a moment for yourself most days? Is putting yourself second a reoccuring theme in your life?
If this describes you, have you considered the importance of self-care.
In a Southern New Hampshire University article, clinical data has shown that adopting a self-care routine alleviates symptoms of anxiety and depression, reduces stress, heightens concentration, diminishes feelings of frustration and anger, boosts contentment, improves overall energy levels, and more [1].
As a health coach, I have seen the positive affects prioritizing self-care has on a person's well-being. It extends beyond simply taking a bubble bath or setting off for a holiday (although those things are great!).
It can help preserve the health of your body and mind for the best possible performance.
So stick with me in this blog to learn the benefits of self-care and tips on sprinkling it throughout your routine.
Table Of Contents
What is Self-Care?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, self-care is about actions that make your life better and healthier [2]. It keeps stress in check, minimizes sickness risk, and enhances energy levels.
In the same article, self-care isn't one-size-fits-all; you should pinpoint your essentials. Figuring out what's best for you may take some experimenting.
Self-care alone can't combat mental illness, but recognizing your triggers and practical coping tools can help keep your mental health in check.
The importance of self-care is a crucial topic I usually discuss with my clients for better health and happiness.
And taking care of yourself doesn't always mean me first; it can mean me too.
The Importance of Self-Care to You
Practicing self-care isn't self-centered but rather a basic need. However, some often wrongly classify self-care as a luxury instead of recognizing it as a necessity.
Here's why self-care is essential:
Stress management
Stress relief can be as simple as enjoying activities you love. It gives you a mental break to recharge.
Improved Physical Health
When you rest, your body recovers and re-energizes. Regular 'me-time' is a perfect prevention hack against burnout.
Boosts Emotional Well-being
Treating yourself right helps both your body and your mind. It results in increased happiness, gratification, and motivation for life.
Enhances Self-esteem
Self-care and 'Me' time reflects on how you perceive yourself. It simplifies self-understanding, acceptance and can boost your self-esteem.
Better Productivity
'Me' time results in increased efficiency. Have you ever noticed how you get better ideas and solutions after you've taken a break? Self-care at its finest 🙌
Improved Relationships
How you take care of yourselves influences your interactions with other people.
Being present and fully engaged with others is more challenging when you are tired, stressed, or overwhelmed. Have you ever noticed yourself snapping at loved ones, feeling irritable, or even withdrawing from social situations when your exhausted?
How to Practice Self-care and Enjoy 'Me' Time?
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has outlined eight dimensions of enhancing your health:
Emotional,
Intellectual,
Physical,
Environmental,
Occupational,
Financial,
Spiritual, and
Social
Though formed by substance abuse professionals, these signify the health areas crucial to our wellness too. Preserving balance among the eight dimensions supports improved wellness.
Consider the following:
Physical
Exercise regularly: Dedicate time to fun and beneficial physical activities, like walking, swimming, dancing, or yoga.
Eat a well-balanced diet: Nutritious eating should be a primary focus, and maintain good hydration levels.
Get enough sleep: Make it a goal to have between 7-9 hours of sleep.
Practice deep breathing exercises: Deep, steady breathing helps you relax and reduce stress.
Emotional
Connect with friends and family: Invest in social connections that provide encouragement and a positive experience.
Practice gratitude: Make it a daily routine to list what you're thankful for.
Journal or express your feelings: Recording your emotional state and thoughts can help you process and understand them better.
Engage in hobbies: Involve yourself in activities that spark joy and satisfaction and facilitate interactions with like-minded individuals.
Mental
Meditate or practice mindfulness: Regular meditation fosters stress reduction and soothes anxiety.
Limit screen time and social media: Designate a schedule for digital devices and focus more on meaningful activities.
Read books or listen to podcasts: Dedicate time to learning new things
Set goals and break them into small tasks: Accomplish personal milestones step by step to grow and maintain motivation.
Overall relaxation
Take regular breaks: Map out holidays, mini-trips, or "me-days" so you can unwind and recharge.
Pamper yourself: Spoil yourself with a massage, at home mask or a calming home bath.
Create a comforting environment: Enhance your room with elements that enhance relaxation and comfort.
Listen to music: Music can provide relaxation and a comforting ambiance.
Importance of Self-Care (FAQs)
What is the importance of personal care?
Personal care or self-care is vital for sustaining a healthy body and mind. Neglecting yourself often results in burnout, fatigue, and mental issues like anxiety and depression.
Why is self-care important for development?
Consistent application of self-care strategies can strengthen mental clarity and focus. It makes it easier for you to grow, learn, and develop.
Why is health important in everyday life?
Health is fundamental to our day-to-day performance and living a quality life. It influences how we think, feel, and act. Maintaining a good state of health allows you to carry out day-to-day tasks, engage in social interactions, and work towards your goals effectively.
Why is self-care important for learning?
Prioritizing self-care activities like sleeping well, keeping up with physical fitness, and eating nutritious can power up your cognitive functions and ability to remember new information.
What to do next?
When you invest in self-care, you'll flourish in your private and professional spheres.
Go for it, indulge in self-care and 'Me' time, and experience the positive shifts they bring. Your future self will appreciate this investment.
I base my coaching approach on emphasizing the importance of self-care, which forms the foundation for a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. Prioritizing your well-being empowers you to be more effective in everything you do
Book a call, and let's collaborate in developing a life that brings contentment to your core and your surroundings.
With gratitude,
Alexa Hanshaw
About the Author
Alexa Hanshaw
Alexa Hanshaw is a national board-certified health and wellness coach (NBC-HWC). She is also a stress management coach who helps women be the CEO of their stress. She empowers her clients to push past the confusion of the health and wellness industry to create lifestyle habits that bring them energy and work with their bodies instead of against it.
Join her free Facebook group, Be the CEO of Your Stress, and follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube for quick, easy & healthy tips on stress, health, fitness, nutrition, sleep, and how to stay mindful!