I wanted to chat with you about something really important for our mental health - self-care and self-compassion.
If you're like me and struggle with anxiety and depression, it's easy to get caught up in negative self-talk and feelings of guilt and shame. But that's not helpful or healthy.
So, let's focus on taking care of ourselves and being kind to ourselves. Here are some tips that have helped me:
Practice self-care activities:
- Take a relaxing bath with Epsom salts and essential oils
- Go for a walk in nature
- Engage in a hobby you enjoy, like painting, journaling, or reading
- Try yoga or meditation
- Get a good night's sleep by sticking to a consistent sleep schedule
Speak kindly to yourself:
- Avoid negative self-talk and criticism
- Write down positive affirmations and read them daily
- Celebrate your accomplishments and be proud of your progress
- Forgive yourself for mistakes, we all make them
Take breaks from social media and the news:
- Limit the amount of time you spend on social media
- Unfollow accounts that make you feel anxious or stressed
- Avoid the news before bedtime
- Take a social media break altogether, if needed
Set boundaries:
- Say no to things that don't align with your self-care goals
- Prioritize your mental health, even if that means putting other things aside
- Take time for yourself, even if it's just 10 minutes a day
- Set boundaries with friends and family that support your mental health
Seek help when needed:
- Talk to a trusted adult, like a parent or teacher
- Make an appointment with a mental health professional
- Join a support group for people who struggle with similar issues
- Consider therapy, it can be a great way to work through issues and find coping strategies
I hope these examples give you some specific ideas on how to incorporate self-care and self-compassion into your daily life.
Remember, taking care of yourself is a journey, not a destination. And it's okay to ask for help along the way.