There are many ways we can incorporate self-care into our lives. Mental health experts talk about the five dimensions of self-care; physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual. Below I have given examples of the different activities you can do to reduce stress and live a happier life.
Physical
This pertains to the physical aspect of our health so our exercise, nutrition, rest and relaxation.
- Go for a walk
- Stretch
- Go on a hike
- For for a swim
- Go to a workout class
- Get a manicure/pedicure
- Get a massage
- Sing like no one’s listening
- Dance like no one’s watching
- Eat healthy food
- Retail therapy (within reason)
- Take a long warm bath or shower
- Relax and unwind with essential oils
- Relax at a spa
Mental
The mental dimension encompasses our need to continually learn and our self-discovery.
- Puzzles
- Drawing
- Coloring
- Reading
- DIY/Crafts
- Gardening
- Knitting
- Photography
- Take a class
- Create a morning/evening routine
- Create a dream board
- Join/start a book club
- Write a bucket list
- Learn a new language
- Go on a nature walk
Emotional
This dimension is all about self-love, self-regulation, fun, and happiness.
- Journaling
- Laughing
- Talking to a therapist
- Having a media detox
- Listen to music
- Saying “no” more
- Create a gratitude list
- Watch a film you love
- Simplify your schedule
- Write a letter to your younger/older self
- Smile more
- De-clutter your life
- Write down the things you love about yourself (10 minimum!)
- Create affirmation cards
Social
The social dimension is about our dependency, esteem, and belonging needs.
- Family day out
- Go see a movie
- Dinner date
- Brunch with friends
- Connect with a friend
- Tell someone you love them
- Visit your grandparents
- Spend time with your family
- Give someone a compliment
- Hug someone you care about
- Re-contact with an old friend
- Go to a workout class or a run with a friend
- Lunch with a colleague on your work break
- Tell someone what you appreciate about them
- Have a girly night in (pamper, takeaway, chick flicks, perfect!)
- Send a care package to someone (who doesn’t love random surprises?)
Spiritual
The spiritual dimension is all about our need to help others and our need for spiritual fellowship.
- Pray
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Volunteering
- Attending a religious service
- Giving to a charity
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