I struggled with what to do, and finding the time to do it. I didn’t have a lot of time, money or energy to put into “me time,” hobbies, or figuring out this whole self-care thing.
Start Small
When I first started learning the value of self-care I had no idea where to begin. I struggled with what to do, and finding the time to do it. I didn’t have a lot of time, money or energy to put into “me time,” hobbies, or figuring out this whole self-care thing.
First, it does not take a lot of time, money, planning to begin taking care of yourself, and learning how to do self-care. Here are five easy, and quick self-care tools you can use right now:
1. Repeat a simple mantra (out loud or to yourself). This can be a quote, a Bible verse, a short phrase to keep you focused (“I’m worthy.”)
2. Practice “grounding” yourself. (Notice how you are connecting physically with the world -feet on the floor, the chair you’re sitting in, how that feels, etc.)
3. Practice deep breathing exercises. (Take a slow, deep breath in counting to 8, hold for a count of 2, exhale to a count of 6.)
4. Do some stretches where you are, right now. (Neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, etc.)
5. Visualize a peaceful place (close your eyes, take a deep breath and in your mind, build a place that you could relax).
Self-care does not have to be elaborate, time consuming or expensive. Sure, a 90-minute massage, or a weekend away would be wonderful and go a long way toward recharging your energy, but are not necessary. Take a few seconds or a few minutes to begin. Do this several times a day and you will begin to see a change in how you feel and the effect self-care has on your day.