Self Care Is The New Health Care
1. Simplify your schedule.
Are you over-committed? Are there things that you need to let go of? Ask yourself which activities and relationships are truly adding value to your life, and intentionally make space for those things.
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2. Do something that energizes your body.
Stretch, swim, run, do yoga, or whatever physical activity you enjoy. Exercise is a key part of self-care.
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3. Take a long, warm bath.
While you're at it, light a candle, read a magazine, or listen to soothing music.
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4. Create a Gratitude List.
Write down all the things that you're thankful for.
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5. Meet with a counselor.
This could be a psychologist, therapist, or spiritual mentor.
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6. Unplug for a day.
Go on a media and technology fast, and turn off any unnecessary electronic devices. Limit your exposure to traumatizing current events.
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7. Do something new.
Have you been considering learning a new skill or trying a new hobby? Go for it.
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8. Practice mini-meditation.
Begin or end your day with a minute of deep breathing, and focused awareness of your body, thoughts, and feelings.
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9. Dance it out.
Put on your favorite dance music, and shake your body.
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10. Write or journal your thoughts.
Take 10 minutes, and jot down whatever is on your mind. Mentally release those things as you write.
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11. Get quality time with a quality person.
Hang out with someone whom you enjoy. If they're far away, give them a phone call.
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12. Be still.
Find a quiet place outside, and embrace the stillness. Focus on the beauty around you.
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13. Practice a full day of Sabbath rest.
Take a full day to rest and rejuvenate.
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14. De-clutter.
Choose a place -- your email inbox, your desk, a closet -- and get rid of the excess and junk.
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15. Do an activity mindfully and slowly.
Savor the moment, and experience your activity with attentiveness.
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16. Take a walk.
Explore your environment at a leisurely pace.
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17. Reflect on your personal mission statement.
If you don't have a personal mission statement, create one.
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18. Enjoy a piece of chocolate or other favorite food.
In moderation, of course. (Or have a great cup of Mocha!)
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19. Sleep.
Take a nap, go to bed earlier, and give your body some extra rest.
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20. Relaxing with aromatherapy.
Scents can turn off the mind and help you focus on calming thoughts
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Click on the fullscreen buttons below to see more ways to intensify your self care.
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12 Ways
To Love Yourself Better
Self Care
Is The New
Health Care
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20 Self-Care Practices for the
Mind, Body & Soul
One of the biggest misconceptions around is that self-care needs to be something new or flamboyant that is impressive to others. Yet, the truth is that truly effective self-care is deceptively small and simple. It is in the consistency of very simple but meaningful actions that a powerful compound effect is discovered. Take some time in your day to give mindful attention to some of these practices:
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