AOK Today #6 - Self Care

AOK Today: Take a moment to care for yourself at the fundamental level.

Self care is to return to the best of you, not bandage what's left of you.

How It Works: Self-care is typically portrayed as pampering yourself with extravagant spa days and sparkly face masks, however, it’s really about meeting your human needs at any given moment. This could be a need for relaxation, a need for quiet, a need for connection, a need for stability etc. Before you start any kind of self-care activity, think to yourself: what needs do I want to meet here? What do I need most in my life right now? This will help you truly care for yourself on a fundamental level (rest, nutrition, a stretch, water, a hug), and also make your self-care more efficient. It doesn’t need to be elaborate! And we don’t need to do it all at once. Do something because it fits - not because it's on your to do list, or you're being productive. Do something you genuinely want to do and enjoy doing. If you're worried about time - try to identify your biggest time suckers (scrolling on socials, zoning out in front of TV) and replace them. You might like to bundle it with another activity (listen to your favourite songs on the way to work or in the shower, have a tea while completing work, listen to a podcast while completing a chore, exercise with friends etc) if you're really struggling to fit it.

Cost: Free!

Why I love it: It is so simple and can take a few minutes (making a tea, hearing my favourite song, looking out the window at nature and taking a deep breath). I also enjoy adding a spin on typical self-care rituals - having a photon shower (getting some sunlight); having an activity snack (10-20mins of movement); getting dressed in rose-coloured glasses (disproportionally noticing the good).

Happy Giving |XOX|