Sometimes you need to take time and do something that’s just for you. Self-care is incredibly important, has countless benefits for both our physical and mental health, and is necessary to meet our physical, mental, emotional and even spiritual needs.
Despite this, it is something that we neglect and forget about when we get caught up in life, running a home, kids and grandkids, jobs, retirement – our own priorities are pushed aside to accommodate the wants and feelings of others.
When you are feeling physically and mentally low, taking time to look after yourself is especially important, but is often more difficult.
Here are self-care activities when you’re feeling low
Go outside
Sometimes there really is nothing better than fresh air. Whether it’s going for a walk around the block, visiting your nearest park or just sitting in the garden, getting out in the open has been shown to decrease stress and anxiety and improve general mood.
This is especially true when the weather is nice, as sunlight actually increases the production of serotonin in the brain. This helps to keep you calm, positive and focused. Going for a walk or doing some light exercise outside will also improve your health and fitness levels.
Meditation and yoga
Meditation is great for providing a sense of peace and tranquility, helping to relax the body and mind. It is incredibly easy to start and it requires no special equipment or setup. If you’re not a spiritual person, even taking a few minutes to do nothing and just concentrate on your breathing can have a deeply calming effect on your body and mind, allowing you to be present and regain a sense of control and focus. Yoga has many of the same benefits, whilst adding a physical exercise quality so you’re keeping in shape at the same time!
Run yourself a bath
A hot bath is scientifically proven to reduce anxiety and boost our mood. The warm water helps your blood flow easier and the steam will naturally make you breathe deeper, providing your blood with more oxygen and relieving the strain on your joints and muscles. Combine this with a relaxing playlist, some nice-smelling bath salts and breathing exercises, this is a fantastic way to care for yourself with very little effort.
Watch, listen or read
When things get a bit overwhelming, sometimes what we need is some good old fashioned escapism. Why not put on your favorite movie or start a new streaming series? Or create a playlist of your favourite music or read a few more chapters of your book? Losing yourself in another world can be very therapeutic. You can make your escapism time even more relaxing with Austin IV treatments that can refresh and rejuvenate you. In-home treatments ensure you are in your ultimate comfort zone.
Spend time with family and friends
Self-care activities don’t necessarily have to be things you do alone. If you aren’t an introvert there’s lots to be said for socializing and spending time with a family member, partner, friend or even your pet. These are the people that we feel comfortable and at ease around and they can help to make you feel relaxed and lift your mood, especially if they are positive and uplifting people themselves.
Prepare your favorite meal
While comfort-eating over long periods is not healthy for both the body and mind, sometimes it is soothing to treat yourself to something that you really enjoy. Take your time preparing it, sit down and thoroughly enjoy every mouthful!
Regularly practise gratitude
Reminding yourself of the things that you are grateful for is always a positive activity and can help to switch the mindset when you are feeling low. At the end of each day, make a list of all the positive things that have made your day better. Be very specific and intentional about what you write down.
No matter what form your self-care takes, remember to practice self-compassion and positive self-talk. Life gets on top of us all on occasion and it isn’t always possible to shake it off immediately. Remember that you are allowed to feel whatever you are feeling, your wants and needs are valid and let yourself off the hook.