May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and RICBT is excited to be sharing our newsletter every week about all things Mental Health! This week introduces the series where we share the Top Five Self-Care Tips that you can implement in your daily routine to aid you on your journey to mental wellness.
So, what exactly is self-care? Simply put, to care for yourself! It is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. Whether it’s work, school, or even family, life has a habit of pulling us in many directions, demanding our energy and attention. This can leave us feeling drained and neglectful of our own needs.
That’s where self-care comes in!
Here are 5 Self-Care Tips from Mental Health America to apply to your life now!:
Healthy Lifestyle and Good Hygiene
An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Okay, maybe not just an apple! Eating healthy foods and exercising regularly is the age-old trick to feeling your best. But that doesn’t mean it’s a magic solution to feeling good! It’s just as important to get enough sleep at night, avoid drugs and alcohol and manage your stress in healthy ways (such as breathing exercises, yoga, and going for walks).
“If you struggle with insomnia, try your best to keep a consistent sleep schedule, avoid napping, and avoid using electronics before bed.” – Jena Lerch, PMHNP-BC, APRN
Practicing good hygiene is also key to living a healthy lifestyle. Some benefits include:
- Decreasing the risk of illness
- Improves the way others view you
- Improves the way you view yourself
Be Social and Do What You Love
“Finally, I’m a beautiful butterfly!” – Heimlich the caterpillar, A Bugs Life
We could all learn a little something from Heimlich in A Bugs Life. Don’t be afraid to emerge from that cocoon, spread your beautiful wings, and be a social butterfly! Get reconnected with some old friends or join a social group and meet new people with similar interests. What a great way to take care of you by surrounding yourself with those that love and support you! Another way to engage in self-care is doing at least one thing you love every day! Whether that means watching your favorite tv show, reading a book, or playing with your loveable pet, by doing the things you love, you are honoring yourself and subconsciously affirming that your happiness matters!
Time to Relax
“Do not look for a sanctuary in anyone except yourself.” –Buddha
The last tip to take advantage of is to carve out time in your day for relaxation. There are numerous ways to achieve this, but you must find what ways work best for you! A more spiritual individual may want to try meditation or yoga. If that’s not your thing, try taking a warm bath with a calming scent (hint: lavender or eucalyptus works wonders!) or even a simple 10-minute walk in nature. Close the door on stress and take the time you need to rejuvenate. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup; take the time to refill yours!
Conclusion
For Mental Health Awareness Month, RICBT will focus on positive tips and tricks to assist you along your journey to wellness! One of the most impactful interventions you can take for your mental health is to engage in self-care. Implementing a self-care routine drastically increases the likelihood of becoming and staying well psychologically, physically, and spiritually. Partake in healthy eating, daily exercise and good hygiene practices to live a strong, healthy lifestyle. Reach out to friends and family and set aside time to do at least one thing you love every day for maximum happiness! Lastly, take time out of your busy schedule to engage in relaxing activities to feel revitalized and ready to face the day. Be kind to yourself and give the self-care you need and deserve to live a healthy, happy life!
Services and Recommendations
Interested in learning self-compassion techniques? Fill out RICBT’s group interest form for our Mindful Self-Compassion group with Sharon Younkin, LICSW.
Book recommendations:
- The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook: A Proven Way to Accept Yourself, Build Inner Strength, and Thrive by: Kristin Neff, PhD & Christopher Germer, PhD.
- Self Love Workbook for Women by Megan Logan, MSW, LCSW
- The Self Care Prescription: Powerful Solutions to Manage Stress, Reduce Anxiety, and Increase Well-Being by Robyn L. Gobin, PhD.
Article written by: Kelsey Dixon
