Hey there, fellow stress-battlers! Let’s chat about something we all need but often forget: self-care. You know, that thing we’re supposed to do to keep ourselves sane in this crazy world? Well, I’ve got a little secret for you – making a self-care plan doesn’t have to be another stress-inducing task on your to-do list!
So, what is a self-care plan? Think of it as your personal recipe for happiness and well-being. It’s like meal prepping, but for your soul! And trust me, it’s way more fun than chopping veggies on a Sunday afternoon.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But I don’t have time for self-care!” Well, my friend, that’s exactly why you need a plan. It’s all about making time for the things that keep you feeling fabulous and functioning at your best. And who doesn’t want that?
Here’s a fun fact for you: Did you know that even ancient Egyptians practiced self-care? They were all about those luxurious baths and aromatherapy. So, if Cleopatra could find time for it, so can we!
Ready to jump on the self-care bandwagon? Great! Let’s break it down into 10 easy-peasy steps that’ll have you feeling like a self-care superhero in no time. And don’t worry, I promise it won’t involve any complicated yoga poses or green juice cleanses (unless that’s your thing, of course!).
Taking time for yourself is non-negotiable in today’s tumultuous times, so listed below are 10 easy ways for you to make a start to develop a self care plan that works for you.
Creating a self-care plan for less stress isn’t only about finding balance; holistic care means looking after body and mind from the inside out. If great skin is what you seek, then this simple yet effective system might just be key – give it a try today and see how much of a difference taking some “me time” can do for both your mental health and outer beauty. Listed below are 10 steps that give you an example of a self-care plan that you can use as is or adapt to suit your own needs.
1. Take a news break
Step 1 in our self care plan example is to simply create a more positive vibe around yourself. With so much bad news circulating, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and helpless. But the truth is that our wellbeing should come first; there’s no sense in worrying about things we can’t control or change instantly. Taking some time away from media outlets gives us a chance to breathe and remember what really matters. So why don’t you take a break today – your mental health will thank you later!
2. Eat well
Navigating through periods of stress can be tricky and many times we turn to unhealthy options as a coping mechanism. But, what if I told you that there was an easy way out? By simply focusing on eating more fruits and vegetables loaded with much needed vitamins, minerals, fiber & antioxidants AND indulging in deep orange or red-colored produce – the health benefits are endless!
Plus this simple switch will help reduce those cravings for sugar/fat which keeps us locked into the vicious cycle of even more stress while also potentially helping you lose a few pounds along the journey – making it your new go to self care plan.
3. Deep breathing = Plan for Less Stress Instantly.
Taking few deep breaths is always a great way to destress. Three to six deep breaths will relax the body and reduce overall stress. The beauty of this step on your self care plan is that it can be done literally anytime, anywhere. Try it right now. 1-2-3-BREATHE.
4. Get some sun
All it takes is five minutes of sunlight (or an equal amount of time under a sunlamp) to increase Vitamin D production and reduce cortisol levels, both of which reduce stress. Adding more time in the sun or just outdoors in general is great to have on your self-care plan. Just make sure you use your sunscreen and don’t overdo it!
5. Write
Did you know, writing has the power to relieve stress? Quickly jotting down your thoughts, whether it’s a gratitude journal or stream of consciousness style writing, can provide an escape from whatever chaos may be weighing on you. All that stands between you and some much-needed decompressing is a pen and paper – so why not give it a try?
6. Go for a walk
Every doctor agrees that exercise is a fantastic way to reduce stress, but it doesn’t take a lot of time at the gym to do it. Even a ten-minute walk is enough to lower stress levels. So go outside for the walk and combine it with getting some sun. You don’t need a plan for less stress, just go outside and move.
Here are 10 benefits of walking as listed by Healthline. I am sure some are familiar, but some were news to me. That’s a lot of gain for something you can do for free!
- Burn Calories
- Strengthen your heart
- Lower blood sugar
- Ease joint pain
- Boost immune function
- Boost energy
- Improve your mood
- Extend your life
- Tone your legs
- Creative thinking
7. Get off social media
With social media taking over our lives, it’s important to remember that too much of a good thing can be bad. Taking some time off from scrolling and swiping is essential; even just one or two days away can make all the difference in reducing stress levels, improving anxiety issues and building self-confidence.
8. Use positive affirmations for self-care from the inside out.
We all need a dose of positivity now and again. Why not start with affirmations? Not only are they excellent for self-care, but also great pick me ups when it comes to boosting confidence and lowering stress levels! Pick your favorite few mantras, write them down somewhere visible like the fridge or table you pass often – then recite those words multiple times throughout the day. See how this small exercise can make such an enormous difference in positively enhancing your life journey..
9. Listen to music
Music is a wonderful way to unwind and take care of your mental wellbeing. Whether you’re creating an upbeat playlist or dancing around the house, it’s sure to have positive effects on reducing stress levels! Embrace music as a great tool for self-care and make time each day just for yourself.
10. Have a bedtime
We all know that bedtimes aren’t just for kids – adults need a consistent sleep schedule too! Creating and sticking to your own regular “lights out” time can help you get more restful, quality sleep.
To take things one step further in helping yourself drift off into dreamland, try utilizing essential oil-based products. I personally reach for my Rose QBO or my Frankincense & Myrrh Body Oil for an aromatic lullaby.
Wrap Up for Self-Care Plan for Less Stress
So I hope I have answered just what is a self care plan as well as giving you an example of a self care plan.
Following these ten steps will help you take back control of your life and reduce the amount of stress that you experience on a daily basis. Find which steps work best for YOU!
If creating a self care plan with all 10 steps seems overwhelming then start by selecting just two or three of the steps outlined above. Perhaps start by taking a news break, incorporating deep breathing, and having a bedtime routine. Bringing them into your day-to-day activities will give you tangible results in terms of improved stress management.
Ultimately, self-care is a choice and taking the time to recognize our own needs is essential during this hectic modern era. So go ahead and set aside some ME-time: pick two of these tips for a self-care plan today and start eliminating stress from Your Life.
Resources
What Is Self-Care, and Why Is It So Important for Your Health? — Everydayhealth.com
Caring for Your Mental Health — National Institute of Mental Health
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