When you think about self-care, chances are you’re picturing spa days, pedicures and bubble baths. Let’s smash that stereotype right now. Self-care is exactly what it says on the tin – taking care of yourself.
Self-Care is for everyone
There is a long-running stigma that taking care of yourself isn’t manly. Why do we still believe this?
Outdated beliefs still have men bottling their feelings, not seeking help, and feeling the need to ‘man up’. With suicide rates at triple that of women, it’s time for men to put these old-fashioned ideas straight in the bin.
What Works For You?
Just like anything else, self-care will look totally different from one person to the next. Maybe for some people it’s trimming their toe nails, cleaning the van or spending time with mates. The next person might go to bed early, replace a battered pair of shoes or leave a work text ’til Monday. For some it actually is spa days, pedicures and bubble baths!
How do you feel cared for? Have a look at some handy examples below.
What Self-Care ISN'T
Sometimes we will feel an impulse to get that cheeky drive-thru meal, break a good habit we’ve had on the go, or binge a TV series. Because it’s an impulse, we might think this is something we deeply want, and therefore it’s self-care. “Y’know what, I’ll make it kingsize, I deserve it”. While this is normal – don’t trick yourself into thinking it’s self-care!
Say no
While supporting and giving to others is good for us, it shouldn’t be at the expense of our own self-care. When you say no, you tell yourself that your needs matter too.
Positive people
Positive people are a joy to be around, and will give you energy. On the other hand, have you ever spent time with people who leave you feeling exhausted and disengaged? Take care of yourself by minimising time spent around negativity.
Rest & Sleep
When we don’t get enough sleep, it can affect our mood, memory and our judgement. The quality of the sleep we are getting is just as important as the quantity! Take a look at our sleep page for more information.
Switch Off
We live in a world designed to keep us glued to our screens. We seek fast rewards in the form of short, sharp entertainment and anxiety has never been higher. Having rules around phone use is becoming an important part of self-care.
Good Food
It can be hard to motivate yourself to eat well, but making time to prep lunch is a great way to stop eating badly on-the-go. Healthy eating has the power to improve your physical health, mood, appearance, lifespan and mental health. Check out our nutrition page for more info.
Do what you love
What do you really enjoy doing? Life shouldn’t just be about the slog – taking care of yourself means knowing you deserve to do the things you love, too.
Get moving
The benefits of exercise are endless! When you get moving you strengthen your body, prevent disease, improve your mental health, increase confidence, release endorphins, prevent aches and pains, and more! Learn more on our exercise page.
Acts of kindness
Studies have shown that helping others triggers the release of feel-good chemicals from our brain. People who help others are said to feel stronger, calmer and more energetic.
Resources: Meditation Courses
Meditation is great for stress relief and is a free and simple type of self-care. You can take our ‘Start Meditating’ and ‘Weekly Wellbeing: Meditation and Mindful Movement’ courses through our Wellbeing Academy.
Nope - Self-care isn't selfish
When you have a family relying on you – mouths to feed and bills to pay – it’s easy to think that taking time for self-care might be selfish. It’s important to remember – you can’t pour from an empty cup. When you don’t look after yourself, you will be more snappy, tired, and you may even become ill, physically or mentally. Self-care means you will show up as the best version of yourself, for you and your family.
Speak to us if you need more help
If you’re trying hard to make healthy habits but feel the pressure mounting up, share the load with us today.
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