As they say, there's no better time than the present to  kickstart a new habit. And self-care is often left at the bottom of our priotry lists. However, whatever stage of your life you're in, it's always important to care for your health and well-being.

A simple way to start your self-care routine is to look at it in terms of pillars. This might sound like a lot, but once  you know them, you can better recognise what needs work in your life instead of trying to do everything.

 

Pillars of self-care: 

1. Mental
2. Emotional
3. Physical
4. Enviromental
5. Spiritual
6. Recreational
7. Social
8.  

How to use them?

Self-care is all about the everyday habits that help you take care of your health and well-being. 

To kick start your self-care routine, there's no rush to focus on finding a perfect balance between them all immediately. Instead, you might need to focus on one are for a day, a week, maybe even a month. When you're ready, you can focus on others.

Let's explore the pillars of self-care in more detail:

Mental self-care is important for developing a healthy mindset. It includes growing your skills, reducing stress, enchancing your knowledge and creativity. From getting plenty of sleep to stopping and enjoying small aspects of your day. Some easy ways to relax each day could also include rreading a book, crafting, unplugging from technology, decluttering your home, taking a class, or simpley going for a walk! There is no wrong way to take care of your mental health, as long as it makes you feel relax. 

Emotional self-care is taking care of matters of the heart, with healthy coping strategies and self-compassion. From listening to your favourite song to watching inspirational stories like A Perfect 14. 

Physical self-care involves taking care of your body with exercise,  nutrition, good hygiene and proper sleep. Easy Ways To Live Well featuring Hugh Fearnley- Whittingstall explores ways to practice activities for your physical well-being, increase your energy levels & boost your self-esteem. Use positive affirmation, eliminate self criticsm and introduce self compassion.

Environmental self-care is about caring for spaces and places around you. The more you  take care of your immediate environment, the more it will help you to thrive and feel a sense of belonging where you are. You could start by organising your space at work or home, try setting a 15min timer as a short challenge to clean up your space everyday.

Spiritual self-care is taking care of your soul through activities or practises that provide a sense of purpose, direction, or meaning to your life. You could start by volunteering with FoodCycle if you're and avid cook or contributing with Community Action Norfolk and supporting communites to make them vibrant places to live.

Recreational self-care is to channel your inner child with hobbies, fun activities and new experiences. This is the perfect way to let go from the pressure of your to-do list and simply enjoy the pleasures that life has to offer. Go for a picnic in the park either solo or with friends, take yourself out on a date, rent a bicycle and go on a fun cycle ride. Lie down in the park and watch the clouds float by... What would you see?

Social self-care althought self care is about you, it's important to connect with other on a regular basis to grow healthy relationships and connect with people. Find a community to contribute to like your local gardening club or a support group. Don't forget to take a page out of Garden Rescue and The Instant Gardener's book as they're filled with tips you can apply at home too.

Remember that you're worth taking the time out of your day to prioritise self-love & care.

 

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