Nourishing yourself, both mentally and physically, is important, but sometimes it can feel overwhelming to develop an entire self-care routine. Breaking down self-care into a few manageable steps can be an easier introduction--one that your body will thank you for later.
1. Eat Fruits and Vegetables
It is well-known that eating fruits and vegetables significantly lowers your risk for disease and promotes overall bodily function. According to Harvard Health, nutritious plant foods can do everything from reducing your risk of cancer to keeping your vision sharp. They deliver important vitamins necessary for your overall health. Eating a piece of ripe, in-season fruit is a great way to show yourself some love and strengthen your body's natural defenses. If you don't love the taste of raw vegetables, drizzling them in heart-healthy oils and roasting them in the oven can deliver some of those benefits to your body in a tasty way.
2. Go for a Walk
Working up the energy to go to the gym at the end of the day is a mental hurdle many people feel too tired to overcome. Not only is walking a free form of exercise that you can do anywhere, but it does not place as much pressure on your joints as other types of cardio. Going for a walk could be as simple as stepping outside your home and making your way around the block, or you could plan an entire hike at a trail you have never been to before. Maybe you want to set a destination, like a local coffee shop, or you might want to wander and see where you end up. As Mayo Clinic summarizes, taking the time to notice what is around you and get your body moving can ease stress, increase muscle strength, and improve your overall mood.
3. Pamper Your Skin
With your skin being your body's largest organ, it is an important area to take care of. Besides the usually recommended care, adding another step to your skincare routine is a nourishing way to show appreciation to your body. Going to an esthetician for a facial is a unique experience, but it tends to fall on the expensive side of the skincare spectrum. Another option is treating yourself to a product at home. Moisturizing with something like face oil not only feels luxurious but also hydrates your skin.
4. Journal
Not everyone is naturally inclined to write, and that's okay; however, writing as a form of self-care and not to accomplish a specific goal can be a therapeutic way to release emotion. You can keep something like a gratitude journal to help appreciate the positive things in your life, or you could just have a notebook to jot down thoughts and feelings as they come up. If you don't want to physically write, utilizing the notes app on your phone can mimic the experience of a journal without requiring any extra purchases. Whatever way you choose to express yourself, having a place to empty out what is in your head can leave you feeling lighter and more prepared to tackle the day.
5. Spend Time With Loved Ones
While alone time is valuable, self-care does not always have to be a solo mission. Humans are naturally social creatures. A study published in Time Magazine found that the quality of time spent with others can have a greater impact on a person's health than their level of fitness or choice in diet. If you live alone, consider texting a close friend and planning something that you both enjoy. On the other hand, if you live with family, set aside a part of the day, or even an entire day, where you can all be together. Playing cards, riding bikes, or going out to dinner are just a few of the many activities you could do with the people that you love. For many people, time spent with pets can also be just as heart-warming.
