SELF CARE FOR BEGINNERS

We hear about it all the time- self care, self care, self care - and all the things we can do. If you are however living in the stress response constantly, the idea of incorporating some time out for you might seem a little overwhelming. It is however probably beyond important for you and essential for your wellbeing as the continuous activation of the stress response can play havoc with your hormones and in turn your health.

My advice, speaking from personal experience is start small creating baby rituals in your day that you can build on. Honour that self care is not selfish - it is a fundamental act of self preservation. Your body is your home and it needs your love and care.

5 Ideas for Wholesome Self Care For Beginners

1) Start small - it could be mindfully savouring a cup of herbal tea, taking a 5 minute walk ( perhaps instead of a habitual coffee break) or simply closing your eyes and breathing deeply for a moment. These small moments can have a profound effect on your wellbeing. In every baby self care moment you are rewiring and letting your body know you are taking care of yourself.

2) Start your day with a few gentle stretches, a mantra that serves your wellbeing and a glass of filtered water with squeezed lemon or a nurturing herbal tea. Or eve just one of these!

3) Self care can start with your grocery shopping. Mindfully filling your pantry and fridge each week with wholesome whole foods will create a cascade of self care rituals through the week.

4) Run a bath ( or replace with your choice of lovely, wholesome thing) . If you are constantly in the stress response and in the habit of not meeting your needs, you may think you just don’t have time for this - this however is probably a habitual way of thinking that with consciousness you can change. I really encourage you to try to shift your perspective - rather than “I don’t have time for a bath” to “how can I create space in my evening for a bath.” If a bath is not your thing replace bath with walk/meditation/rest…. you choose!

5) Practice mindfulness for even a few minutes at a time. This can be while you are having a meal ( very good idea!), having a shower or preparing a meal. Learning to focus on the present moment will help to calm the mind and body and we can learn to feel the magic of simple moments.

Your body is your home and deserves your love. You are worth it.

xxx