Our busy lifestyles and hectic schedules can feel like there are never enough hours in the day to get everything swirling on that to-do-list inside your head get done. Between work, children, exercise, extracurricular activities, and household responsibilities, it's super easy to neglect your own self-care. Everyone else comes first, you… last. However, taking care of yourself is 100% necessary to your overall health and well-being, and therefore considered a priority to those around you. In this blog, we will explore some practical ways you can find the time for self-care.
Schedule Self-Care Time
The first step to making time for self-care is to schedule it into your calendar. Treat it like any other important appointment or meeting. Decide on the time and the activity you want to do and stick to it. It could be as simple as taking a relaxing bath or going for a walk in the park. By scheduling it in advance, you are more likely to follow through.
Get up Earlier!
Sure, we all like to hit the snooze button. More than once. But early mornings really can be a peaceful time to focus on yourself before the day gets busy. Try waking up 30 minutes earlier than usual and use that time for self-care. This could be meditation, yoga, walking the dog, or reading a book. It's a great way to start the day on a positive note and that sense of accomplishment and satisfaction sets the tone for the rest of the day.
Utilise Your Lunch Break
Instead of eating at your desk, use your lunch break to do something for yourself. Go for a walk, seek some Vitamin D loaded sunshine energy, take a fitness class, or have lunch with a friend. It's important to take a break from work and recharge your batteries.
Involve Your Children
Self-care doesn't always have to mean ‘me time’. You can involve your children in your self-care routine. Plan a fun activity that you both enjoy, such as baking a cake, playing a board game, or filling out a Crossword together. It's a great way to bond with your children, creates connection, while also taking care of yourself.
Delegate Responsibilities
You don't have to do everything yourself. Delegate responsibilities to your partner, family members, or hire a babysitter to help with the children. This gives you some free time to focus on your self-care, and at the same time creates healthy routines and habits for those around you.
Use Technology
Technology can be a great tool for self-care. There are many meditation and mindfulness apps that you can use to relax and unwind. You can also use technology to connect with friends or join a virtual fitness class. Pour yourself a glass of wine, enjoy a long bubble bath and watch the latest episode of your favourite show. Self-care comes in many different forms, so be sure to prioritise your ‘time out’ in a way that best suits your lifestyle.
Hopefully by either scheduling self-care time, getting up earlier, utilising lunch breaks, involving your children, delegating responsibilities, or using technology, you can find some time to take care of yourself. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it's necessary for your well-being and the well-being of your family.