Self-care is a bit of a buzz word, but it is an essential part of looking after your health and wellbeing. It can mean different things to different people. In the medical field it is administering what you need to look after your condition, for example monitoring blood glucose levels. For you though, it should be whatever it needs to be.
“Self-care refers to activities that preserve and maintain one’s physical, emotional and mental health. It is an ongoing commitment to look after yourself through helpful behaviours that protect your health during periods of stress.
Paying attention to what is happening to your body, both physically and emotionally, helps you to identify when something is affecting you. It is important to take time out when you need it to reduce feelings of stress and protect your mental health.” (Lifeinthemind)
It might be by taking a much needed afternoon nap, ensuring you have snacks ready when you can’t cook, or going out for a walk.
We know from our research that women often put a lot of thought and effort into caring for others, which is a good thing, except sometimes they then don’t have energy left to care for themselves. Women may also feel guilty about doing self-care activities because they are not used to prioritising themselves. Fitting in self-care activities can actually help you look after your loved ones!
Following are a few ideas of what self-care could be, focusing on food and exercise, sleep, rest, and mental health.
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