How to Embrace Self-Care

Self-Care September is here, like a big, warm hug! This month we are celebrating taking care of all aspects of our physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. From honouring your own needs and being kind to yourself, to using self-care tools such as meditation and skincare rituals, we are here to inspire and support you.

Self-Care 101

The term ‘self-care’ is having a buzz moment and rightly so, in a busy and uncertain world where consciously taking care of ourselves has become more important than ever. So what does ‘self-care’ actually mean? It’s not just putting on a face mask (although we are all about a DIY facial!). At its essence, self-care is an umbrella term that includes any activity or practise undertaken by an individual with the intention of supporting and enhancing one’s state of wellbeing. 

What self-care may look like:

• A sleep in on the weekend
• Setting boundaries
• Having a bath
• Listening to relaxing music
• Getting into bed half an hour earlier
• Asking for help
• Getting some sunshine on your skin
• Laughing
• Journalling 

What self-care isn't:

• Not taking a rest day
• Saying yes to a social arrangement when you’re not up for it
• Scrolling Instagram for hours on end
• Excess caffeine 
• Judging yourself and others
• Being too rigid with your schedule or plans
• Not taking time for yourself
• Focussing on weight rather than health

Why You Should Prioritise Self-Care

Sometimes in the midst of caring for others or fulfilling a busy schedule, self-care can fall to the wayside and you accidentally end up neglecting your own needs. Or, perhaps you have fallen into the “giver” trap, where you are constantly trying to please and cater to others and feel guilty for placing this emphasis onto yourself. The truth is though, that you can’t pour from an empty cup! Just as on an airplane they instruct you to first fit your own oxygen mask in case of an energy, before helping others around you, taking care of yourself is priority. When you have taken the measures to look after yourself, you are better equipped mentally and physically to care for loved ones and give more to the world.

How to Embrace a Self-Care Practice

A great way to make sure you are living and breathing the self-care philosophy is to write down everyday self-care essentials in a list that resonate with you, such as a 10 minute meditation, a bath, some time to yourself with a book, taking a lunch break from the working day rather than eating at your computer, or whatever they may be. These are your non-negotiables! Read the list each morning as a reminder, until they become second nature.

Another fun way to embrace self-care is by choosing a day of the week (in addition to your everyday practices) to focus on loving and looking after yourself. A ‘Self-Care Sunday’ is a great concept and nourishing end to a week. This might mean that on Sundays you sleep in, revel in a longer skincare routine, zoom with friends, or perhaps do nothing at all and truly rest! 

When it comes to self-care in all situations, tune into what your body and mind are asking for, and honour that. The more you show up for yourself like this, the more you will reap the benefits of self-care such as lowered stress, positive mood and more energy.