Lately it seems that the new favorite word being used by many is self-care. So what is self-care exactly and why should it be something you think about incorporating into your vocabulary and life?
Self-care is more than just taking hot bubble baths, taking a yoga class, reading a book or practicing mindfulness and meditation. It’s about making the time to look after yourself, about checking in and seeing how you’re doing, and no, practicing self-care is not selfish.
Self-care is about nourishing yourself and checking in with your needs so that you can be mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually well and balanced. Practicing self-care is crucial in maintaining your overall health and to help keep you balanced.
What Does Self-Care Look Like?
- It may mean setting limits and boundaries for yourself; learning to say no even when you don’t want to so that you don’t extend yourself too thin.
- Identifying what’s working well currently, and changing the things that no longer serve a purpose.
- Limiting your screen time; setting aside some time just for yourself without any other distractions
Self-Care Can Include Things Such As:
- Going outside for a walk
- Exercising
- Getting enough sleep
- Staying hydrated
- Identifying when you’re starting to burn out before it happens
Practicing good self-care can be incorporated into your daily routine just like drinking water throughout the day or brushing your teeth. Taking care of our bodies and practicing self-care is important for overall health. Check out this Ted Talk video on self-care: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBn0ETS6XDk
Stay tuned for Part 2 of more self- care trips for overall mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing later this month.
If you have more questions or require more information about gambling support, call the Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-306-6789
