Self-care practices are habits that improve and maintain your physical and mental health.These practices are not just about managing stress right now or preventing mental health difficulties in the future. It’s also about making choices that improve your overall sense of wellbeing, whether you’re currently facing challenges or not.
Where do I start?
- Personalise your self-care: Instead of trying to follow socially expected or popular self-care routines, find activities that fit with your values and culture. This can make self-care more meaningful and sustainable in the long run
- Reach out for support and encouragement: Having an accountability partner can motivate you to turn self-care activities into habits. For example, you could pair up with a friend to exercise together or engage in a shared hobby
- Leverage technology: If physical or mental health challenges make self-care difficult, try using technology to make it easier. For example, you could use meditation apps, online fitness classes, or virtual support groups to practise self-care from the comfort of your own space
- Habit-stacking: If you’re very busy, try tying a self-care habit to something you already do every day. For example, you might listen to your favourite podcast or audiobook while commuting, or practise deep breathing while waiting in a queue to get lunch
By adapting your self-care practices to fit your lifestyle and personal values, it is possible to find ways of overcoming obstacles to self-care and prioritising your long-term well-being.
