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Self-care can be overwhelming. Especially in addition to our already long list of things to do each day. I am here to tell you that some form of self-care is absolutely essential to your overall health and well-being.

There are lists everywhere online with ideas on how to care for yourself, and they can be overwhelming as well. I am here to break self-care down in a very practical and doable way.

Below are simple steps you can take each day to care for yourself that do not feel overwhelming.

You can do one or all of these rituals each day. It’s not about squeezing everything in, but in finding what works best for you and your routine and what makes you feel your best. I recently promised myself that I would take a short walk each day, no matter the weather. It doesn’t have to be a 3 mile walk, it can be a simple walk around the block to clear your mind and body. Afterward, I feel like I did something good for my well-being.

Self-care can mean different things to different people at different times as well. If you are struggling physically or mentally, self-care can be as simple as brushing your teeth, or drinking a glass of water. I think it’s important to be mindful of that. Start where you are with what you have.

Self-care for me, is about building confidence in my abilities to care for myself, and therefore having the confidence to manage all other aspects of my life. Start small, and build from there.

Move your body
This does not necessarily mean taking a HIIT class, (although if that is your thing, go for it!) It can be as simple as doing a few stretches upon waking up or putting on some music and letting your body naturally guide you to where it wants to go. You can go for a short walk, or simply shake your body to minimize stress and tension. Find what feels best for your body.
Sleep
I know how hard it can be to keep a consistent sleep schedule. This is something that I am currently working on. I tend to be more of a night owl, so mornings have always been more challenging for me. Because of that, I know that in order for me to wake up early, I need to go to sleep at a certain time. Now, does it always work out that way? Absolutely not. We will sometimes have events or maybe have a hard time falling asleep, or maybe we just wanted to watch one last episode of our favorite show on tv lol (we’re allowed). The key is to not beat yourself up if you hit the snooze button a few times and miss your morning workout. In that case, choose something else you can do that day instead. The goal is to get 7-9 hours each night, and sleep and wake at around the same time every day.
Nutrition
Challenge yourself to provide your body with as many nutrients as you can and have access to. This can be different for everyone. When I’m cooking, I try to ask myself, what can I add to this dish to make it more nutrient dense? That might mean adding some greens to a pasta dish or adding protein to a dish that otherwise wouldn’t have any. Again, do your best with what you have and don’t beat yourself up if you’re not perfect.
Hobbies
Hobbies can get us out of our routines, and into a flow state. A flow state is a state in which you are fully immersed on a single activity or task. Hobbies can include, reading, writing, exercise, art, etc. Try journaling at the start or end of each day, or read a few chapters of a book that you’re really interested in. Express yourself through art or movement. If you only have 5 minutes, set a timer. Thats all it takes.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness, another buzz word that does not have to be complicated. You can practice mindfulness by focusing on every day tasks you normally do and catching your mind when it wanders. For example, if you are washing the dishes, really pay attention to the temperature of the water, the movement of your hands, the feeling of the soap. This way, you are getting done what needs to be done and being present at the same time, (multitasking-score!) Mindfulness is just a word for being fully present. Take a moment to notice whats around you. What do you see, hear, smell, taste?

Self care doesnt’t have to be giving yourself a full facial before bed or getting an hour long massage, although it can be. Again, work with what you have. Each day might be different. I believe the key is in finding one or a few small things you can do each day to connect with yourself outside of your daily routine. Wishing all the best!

WHy SELF-CARE DOES NOT HAVE TO BE COMPLICATED

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