Self-care is engaging in actions and making choices that prioritize and improve your physical and mental health. Physical self-care can be any activity that improves the state of your bodily health, from getting a full night of sleep to going for a walk. Mental self-care includes any act that decreases stress, promotes positivity, or generally contributes to your overall happiness.
What self-care looks and feels like varies by person and can change over time. Something that can feel mentally rejuvenating for one person can bring stress or anxiety to another person. For example, some people would consider decluttering their home a cleansing experience that helps promote mental clarity; for others, it might be a trigger for stress. The most important part of self-care is balance and giving yourself what your mind and body are telling you is needed. The main goal of self-care: to live a happier and healthier life.
Why is self-care important?
Taking time each day to invest in your physical and mental health can help lower your risk of illness, promote mind-body recovery, and encourage you to lead a happier life. Studies show that significant amounts of physical and mental stress over your lifetime are linked to an increased risk of many disorders like anxiety, depression, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and even Alzheimer’s disease. Continue reading from The National Council on Aging
5 Types of Self-Care for Every Area of Your Life (Very Well Mind)
50 Best Self-Care Ideas for Mental and Physical Wellbeing (Good Housekeeping)
Caring for Your Mental Health (National Institute of Mental Health)
The Connection Between Self-Care and Mental Health (Psychology Today)
Emotional Self-Care: What It Is and How to Make It Part of Your Life (Advantage Care Health Centers)
Financial Wellness Is Self-Care: 3 Steps to Help Improve Yours (Kiplinger)
How to Start a Self-Care Routine You’ll Follow (Everyday Health)
The Pillars of Self-Care (Harvard Health)
Seven Types of Self-Care Activities for Coping With Stress (Psychology Today)
