You don’t want to wait until you’re burned-out and exhausted to start taking care of yourself.

Have you felt overwhelmed by your fast-paced life? Self-care helps you to deal with life demands.

Self-care is not being selfish – you can only take good care of your loved ones if you take care of yourself first. You can’t give what you don’t have.

Self-care is intentionally taking care of your own needs. It will help you manage stress, increase your energy, and boost your immune system.

Here are some examples in 5 areas of self-care. Most of the practices takes 5-10 minutes.

1. Physical – Your body health.

• Drink water. At least 8-10 cups a day.
• Move your body. Jump rope, dance, stretch, yoga movements.
• Eat nutritious foods, avoid high carbs, high sugary foods.
• Sleep at least 7 hours per night.

2. Your thinking health.

• Say no. When you say no to things that aren’t your priorities, you’re saying yes to things that matter the most to you.
• Detach from negative people who drain your energy.
• Delegate. Let people around you share your tasks.
• Ask for help and accept it when it is offered.

3. Your feeling health.

• Mindless activity. Do something you like, just because.
• Create something, draw, paint, color.
• Celebrate small and big accomplishments.
• Give yourself a high five in the mirror. Be silly for 60 seconds.
• Be proud of yourself.

4. Your soul health.

• Spend time in nature.
• Meditate and pray. Listen to your inner self and to your higher power.
• Take deep breaths.
• Practice gratitude.

5. Social. Your connection health.

• Nurture your relationships.
• Call, text, write a letter, Send a card by mail.
• Visit a friend
• Say Hi to a stranger.

Open space for yourself. Be good to yourself. You’re a human being, you don’t have to be perfect. You’re good enough just as you are. You deserve self-care!