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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