Self-Care Strategies for a Hectic Life

When life gets busy, it can be hard to find time for self-care. Between work, caring for children, running errands, taking care of the home, and more, taking care of ourselves sometimes slides down our to-do list. Women wear many hats and often put themselves last. 

You already know this, but it is important to prioritize yourself and your mental health. You deserve the same amount of attention you put into your other endeavors. So why don’t you make the time? Self-care doesn't have to be a grand gesture or giant overhaul of your way of life. It can be found in the spaces between to-do list tasks, and threaded into your very worldview. LunaJoy is here to help you create a self-care routine that will fit right into your busy schedule.

Before you begin, remember that our professionals are always here to help

What is Self-Care and its Benefits?

Self-care is a term that is becoming more and more popular, but what does it really mean? Self-care will look different to everyone. To some people, self-care is a spa day or getting their nails done, but it doesn't have to be that for you. Self-care is whatever you feel will add to your quality of life, whether mentally, physically, or emotionally. It's about listening to your body and mind to discover what they need in order to be rejuvenated. 

Not routinely practicing self-care can have consequences:

• Low energy

• Feeling hopeless

• Less patience

• Increased headaches, stomach aches, and other physical symptoms of stress

• Difficulty falling and staying asleep

• Challenges in choosing healthy food and urges to eat "comfort" foods

• Worsening mental health symptoms like depression or anxiety

• Feeling "burnout"

• Difficulty concentrating

• Strain or distancing in the relationship with your spouse or partner

• Less patience with your children

• Reduced performance at work

• Less motivation to engage in social activities

By taking time to prioritize our health and happiness, we are better equipped to handle the challenges that come our way and live our best lives. And there are countless benefits to practicing self-care regularly. For one, it can help improve your overall mental health, reducing anxiety or depression. Additionally, it can boost your confidence and sense of self-worth, allowing you to approach your responsibilities and relationships with renewed energy. Whether you prefer to indulge in a leisurely activity or exercise regularly, finding ways to practice self-care can be incredibly rewarding.

Self-Care Ideas for Your Hectic Life

Self-care is crucial to maintaining good mental health and taking care of oneself, but for busy individuals, it can be challenging to make time for it. However, there are several ways to incorporate self-care into even the busiest schedules. One idea is to incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga into your daily routine, even if it's just for a few minutes. Another effective self-care activity is taking a walk outside and focusing on the surroundings, which can help reduce stress and clear your mind.

Here are some other excellent ideas:

• Make a gratitude list

• Listen to upbeat or relaxing music

• Take five minutes to sit down and put your feet up

• Stand in the shower with the hot water pouring over your back

• Ask your spouse or partner for a foot rub or back massage

• Go for a walk over your lunch break

• Listen to a meditation ("Insight Timer" is a free app for meditations)

• Take an Epsom salt bath

• Schedule a date night with your spouse, partner, or friends to connect without distractions

• Enjoy a hot cup of tea

• Spend five minutes taking deep breaths

• Get a manicure or pedicure, or give yourself one

• Turn your phone off for 30 minutes

• Participate in a yoga class

• Light a yummy smelling candle

• Write in a journal for five minutes

• Read a book for 20 minutes

• Go to bed 15 minutes early

• Unfollow someone on social media who is negative or makes you feel badly

The Takeaway

Self-care should never be overlooked, even if you're busy or overwhelmed. Incorporating regular self-care practices into your life is essential and can have many beneficial impacts, such as improved mental resilience, emotional well-being, physical health, and more. When you make time for yourself, it equates to investing in yourself. Caring for ourselves helps us stay mentally sharp and emotionally balanced during difficult times. Each of us has something unique to contribute to the world, and we must take care of ourselves if we want to give our best. If you don't know where to start with your self-care journey or need extra help along the way, consider reaching out for professional support from LunaJoy; our team of dedicated clinicians has a wealth of resources available to assist in promoting good mental health. So remember – "self" comes first!