Looking after yourself should be a top priority for everyone, however often it is overlooked until a physical ailment or a wave of emotion comes along that forces us to take notice.
Our body is a messenger and when our body speaks to us in the form of emotions and physical symptoms, it is a clear sign that we have been ignoring our need for self-care and self-love.
Often we forget that in order to be the best version of ourselves and to give back to others, we have to nourish and care for ourselves first.
This is absolutely and 100% necessary for our survival. This is not about questioning whether we are being selfish or not, it is simply about ensuring that our own cup has been filled before we start pouring into others.
If you are running on empty, if you are suffering from physical symptoms, if you are feeling drained or overly sensitive, this is your body calling on you for self-care and self-love.
If you are wondering how to get started on self-care, here are 11 simple tips that will help recharge and replenish your entire being-
1. Say No
If something doesn’t feel or sound good to you, give yourself permission to say no without feeling guilty and without having to give an elaborate reason. Saying no to things also frees up more space in your life to do the things that you actually want to do and that feel good.
2. Stand Up For Yourself
If something is bothering you or weighing you down, give yourself permission to stand up for yourself without fearing criticism or conflict. Confront the people or situations that are bothering you by stating how you feel and standing up for your beliefs. Be willing to put your foot down and set boundaries to ensure that you are not being squashed or compromised.
3. Be Kind to Yourself
We often forget how important it is to be kind and gentle towards ourselves. Speak to yourself like you would your best friend and give yourself the same encouragement and love. Doing this on a daily basis can help to recharge and replenish your soul and can also help to align your vibration to a higher frequency.
4. Stay Away from Drama and Gossip
Don’t fall into the trap of getting caught up in the drama of things or in petty gossip. Judging others and getting swept up in the emotions of drama can heighten both stress and anxiety and can lower your vibration to a negative mindset. Avoid getting caught up in what other people are doing or saying and instead turn your attention onto yourself.
5. Ask Yourself -“What Do I Need?”
Take a moment to quiet your mind and your thoughts and tune into the feeling of your body. Once you can feel your body and can be present with yourself, ask the question- “What do I need today?” Still your mind and allow your inner voice to answer back. Then work on giving yourself whatever it is that you need.
6. Release What You Can’t Control
Sometimes it is necessary to release the way we want things to go and simply accept things as the way they are. When we do this, we open space for relaxation and acceptance. It is through this that we can then feel guided and supported by the Universe. Releasing control also gives space and room for new possibilities to emerge.
7. Do Things That You Enjoy
Make room in your day to spend time on things that bring you joy and happiness. This may include reading, taking a relaxing bath, yoga, gardening or singing. Whatever it is that brings you joy, make sure you prioritise and make time for it in your day to day.
8. Believe in Yourself
If you don’t believe in yourself, who will? Whenever you notice self doubt creeping in, or thoughts that make you feel unworthy or not good enough, take a step back and instead replace them with positive thoughts of self belief. Trust that you always have the ability to overcome anything that is sent your way.
9. Create a Life That You Desire
If you wake up every day dreading your job, wishing things were different or always waiting for “tomorrow”, it may be time to make some changes. When you are willing to stand up for your happiness and to create a life of excitement, the Universe will always deliver. This world is filled with endless opportunities, so give yourself permission to create the life that you desire and know that you are worthy of having it.
10. Spend Time in Nature
If you simply need a reset, switch off all technology, unplug yourself from the world and go and spend some time in nature. Nature and spending time alone is naturally healing and restorative and can help to replenish and rejuvenate your entire being.
11. Express Gratitude
Expressing gratitude for your beautiful body, the joys and happiness in your life and the amazing potential of nature can instantly help uplift your spirits. Make it a point everyday to focus on 7 things that you feel grateful for. When you step into this space, it helps you to notice the amazing blessings all around you.
Self care is really something we should all be prioritising every single day. In fact, it is probably the single most important thing we can give ourselves if we want to move through the world at our highest expression.
“You have to love yourself because no amount of love from others is sufficient to fill the yearning that your soul requires from YOU.” – Dodinsky