I am a firm believer that self-care must be practiced in a way that nourishes your mind, body, and soul. In order to cover all of the bases, you should make sure that you are addressing each of the eight domains of self-care. Make yourself familiar with these different areas, and as you find that you are not feeling satisfied with that aspect of your life, redirect some energy into that particular area.
#1 Psychological
Psychological self-care involves learning new things, developing your creativity, embracing and practicing mindfulness.
Tips:
- Read a book or listen to a podcast.
- Continue your education. If going back to school is not in the budget. Look into certificate programs.
- Disconnect from social media and reconnect with yourself.
#2 Emotional
Emotional self-care involves elevating your emotional literacy, learning how to navigate through your emotions, and developing ways to manage your stress effectively.
Tips:
- Demonstrate self-compassion !
- Allow time for reflecting on your feelings and take time to process them.
- Practice saying NO! You do not have to give anything of yourself that you do not want to give. Time, energy, money, etc…
#3 Physical
Physical self-care involves your overall health,and wellness. This includes moving your body, receiving proper nutrition, and adequate sleep.
Tips:
- Make sure you get the recommended amount of sleep; between 7-9 hours each night.
- Eat healthier foods; incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet.
- Aim for 30 minutes of exercise daily. It can be as simple as a walk.
#4 Social
Social self-care involves ensuring that you have supportive relationships, that you make time for.
Tips:
- Ask for help when you need it. You cannot, nor do you need to, do it all alone!
- Spend quality time with family and friends.
- Meet new people. It is ok to outgrow your current “circle”. Network with likeminded people.
#5 Professional
Professional self-care involves setting clear professional goals and boundaries.
Tips:
- Make sure that your needs are being met. For example: eating a meal on your lunch break. You should not be working through your lunch break.
- Take advantage of professional growth opportunities like trainings,and certifications.
- Use your PTO! Go on vacation. If you are sick, take a sick day. When you are personally overwhelmed use a personal day. Do your part in striking healthy a work/life balance.
#6 Financial
Financial self-care involves establishing a positive, and conscious,relationship with your money.
Tips:
- Spending and saving money responsibly.
- Knowing exactly where your income is coming from; and making sure that it is steady.
- Keeping up with your expenses and making sure that debts are paid on time.
#7 Environmental
Environmental self-care involves making sure that your surroundings, whether at work or home, are well maintained and organized.
Tips:
- Declutter an area that you spend time in.
- Maintain a clean and safe living space.
- Connect with nature. Take a walk outside; get some fresh air and sunshine.
#8 Spiritual
Spiritual self-care involves having beliefs and values that are important to you. This can be a connection with any higher power that you identify with.
Tips:
- Reflecting or gratitude journaling
- Meditating
- Making time to connect with your beliefs. For example, if you go to church and cannot attend, find a way to tune in, tv, podcast, livestream; however.
For more tips on how to practice self-care in all of these domains, subscribe to my emails, and follow me on instagram @how_many_hatz