Whenever we think of self-care, we think of beauty or fitness routines. Self-care is defined as “the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one’s own health and mental state.” It seems like we often forget that there are other forms of practicing ways to create peace of mind and overall well-being.
Every Sunday, we’re reminded by social media posts about #selfcaresunday. And each week, we feel the pressure that we should take a bath or go for a walk. Those are all great, but they may not always be the form of self-care that resonates with you. In this post, I’m going to share 10 ways to self-care that do not involve beauty, skincare, or fitness practices.
10 Ways to Self-Care
1. Listen to Music
One thing that I’ve always found relaxing is listening to music. It always seems to put me at peace if I’m in a bad mood or feeling anxious. If I’m at home, I put on a record from my collection, or I go for a walk and listen to French music on Spotify. Whatever your source or genre of music, this is an excellent form of self-care.
2. Read
For many people reading is a form of self-care. It’s a hobby that they enjoy, which in return improves your overall well-being. For me, I love a good book or reading one of my magazines. This is a practice that I have done since I was a child. Also, in times of stress, it takes you out of your current state for a bit, which gives your mind some time to relax. For book recommendations and reviews, click >>here<<.
3. Draw, Paint, or Color
A few years ago, the idea of adult coloring books became increasingly popular. The idea is that coloring gave you a sense of calm and reduced stressed. The same can be said for drawing and painting as well.
4. Bake or Cook
If you find enjoyment in baking or cooking, that might be a good practice for you. I’ve seen so many people recently baking to cope with the stress of the world’s anxiety. They don’t call it the Joy of Cooking for nothing.
5. Start Needle-working: Stitching, Crochet, or Knitting
When I was younger, I used to crochet, and I found it quite peaceful. I was self-taught and got pretty good too. In addition to crocheting, some other forms of needlework include sewing, stitching, and knitting. Plus, when you’re done, you will have accomplished something which could also make you feel good.
6. Do a DIY or Craft Project
One of my all-time favorite past times is finding a DIY and craft project. There’s something about the act of taking raw materials and creating something new that makes you feel good. In the past, I’ve created jewelry, coasters, and wall hangings.
7. Begin Journalling or Writing
Another way of self-care is to journal or write. Journalling can come in many forms, such as writing about your day, feelings, or gratitude. The same goes for writing. You could write a blog post, poems, short stories, or that novel that you’ve dreaming about for years.
8. Sunbath or Sit Outside
Nothing makes you feel better than fresh air. There’s something about getting some sunshine that just lifts your mood. Sunbathing or sitting outside, especially if you’ve been indoors the majority of the day, can feel amazing. The nice thing is that it doesn’t cost you anything.
9. Talk to a Friend
Talking to a friend either via a phone or video chat can be a form of self-care. In an age of digital, everyone is either texting or commenting on social media. However, talking to someone and hearing that voice on the other side is sometimes just what you need.
10. Clean or Declutter
Yes, you read that right. Cleaning and decluttering can be a form of self-care. People find enjoyment out of cleaning, the act, and the result. The same goes for decluttering and making your life more simplistic.
Closing Statement
Not all of these ten suggestions will be for you, but I’m confident that at least one of these will work for you. So next time that self-care Sunday rolls around, don’t feel pressure to put on a face mask, find the thing that makes you feel at peace, and improves your well-being.
Any of the brands mentioned above does not sponsor this article. However, some of the links may contain affiliate links which may generate revenue for the site when clicked, or when a purchase occurs. The information in this post is my thoughts and preferences.
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