Since the pandemic, there has been a major shift towards self-care and self-improvement but although it’s risen in popularity, it’s not a new concept. In fact, since 2015, Google searches for the term “self-care” have more than doubled.
In this blog, we look at what self-care is and why it’s important.
What is self-care?
Self-care is the practice of mindfully doing anything which preserves or improves your physical or mental health. For example, it may include activities like exercise, mindfulness, meditation, reading, improving your diet, and positively changing your sleeping habits.
Self-care basically covers any activity you do that makes you feel better about yourself or involves caring about yourself. In the medical world, it also covers things like making healthy lifestyle choices or taking a proactive role in managing an existing health condition.
There is a misconception that self-care is selfish. This is not the case. Taking some time to care for yourself will help to promote your health, enable you to do your job well, and even care for others.
In other words, self-care can help you deal with your daily stressors as well as make you feel healthier.
Types of self-care
There are different types of self-care but ultimately, they all have a similar goal, to make you feel cared for.
Some of the categories for self-care include:
- Physical – exercise, sleep routines, healthy diet, better hydration
- Emotional – mindfulness practices, being social, keeping a diary
- Spiritual – meditation, getting out in nature, having time alone, yoga
Why is self-care important?
Self-care is a good way to promote and maintain a healthy relationship with yourself. Ultimately, self-care improves your wellbeing and enables you to be the best version of yourself. You’re probably already doing lots towards self-care without even realising it.
Staying hydrated is self-care
If you’ve already invested in a Hydratem8 tracker bottle, then you’re already taking steps towards self-care. In fact, hydration is a key component because it affects many aspects of your health and body.
For example, water helps to keep your body healthy, fends off dehydration, but also improves your mood as well as promotes healthy skin. All these factors combined, help to improve your self-esteem, and enable you to take good care of yourself.
The Hydratem8 tracker bottle comes with our unique tracker printed on the bottle, so you know how much you should be drinking everyday to keep yourself on top of your game. Plus, it means you can keep your fluid intake topped up without really having to think about it. Just take small sips throughout the day to meet the hourly targets. It’s that simple.
Self-care tips to improve your wellbeing
- Exercise
Regular exercise is an essential component of good physical and mental health. Taking part in physical activity on a regular basis increases the release of serotonin which, in turn, improves your energy levels as well as your mood.
When exercising for self-care, choose an activity you love, like swimming, walking, playing tennis or a fitness class. If you choose something you really enjoy, you’ll make time to complete the task and feel a greater benefit.
- Healthy eating
Eating the things you love the most might make you feel good for a time, but they are often not the healthiest choices. So, try swapping high sugar snacks for things that are more nutritious (read our blog on how to be a smart snacker for tips).
Increase your intake of fibre and wholegrains to help maximise your energy, improve bowel movements, and promote your gut health. Eating the right foods can have a significant impact on your mind and body.
- Don’t forget to sleep
With busy lives and schedules, sleep often doesn’t take priority. However, it is a fundamental part of self-care. Scientists recommend that adults get at least 6-8 hours every night to allow their bodies to rest and renew, ready for the next day.
Summary
Self-care is a personal thing. It’s about finding out what motivates you and what makes you feel good. So, start by making a list of the things you enjoy and see how you can incorporate those into your self-care routine.
