Resolutions are common in January. So many of us want to start out the new year with resolve to do things better. When it comes to resolutions, make your own self-care important and a part of your daily life. You don't have to do it all at once, but make sure you are doing something on a regular basis to prioritize your health and well being. Here are some ideas to start with:
- Don’t feel guilty when you take time to take care of yourself, and remember that your needs matter too.
- Give up on perfectionism because, “You can’t do it all, and you can’t do it all perfectly.” Your efforts are good enough!
- Be kinder to yourself in your thought life. Stop beating yourself up when you feel inadequate. No name calling allowed!
- Feed your body nutrient-dense foods because it doesn’t run well on, “comfort” foods like chips, sweets, breads or donuts.
- Stop putting yourself at the bottom of your priority list. When other people’s needs are always at the top, you will never get around to yourself.
- Have fun once in a while. Laugh, read a funny book, or watch a comedy.
- Savor the world around you; slow down, breathe in fresh air, eat slowly to taste foods, watch a sunrise or sunset, feel the grass on your feet.
- Exercise. Your body wasn’t made to sit down for long periods of time. Even if exercise is low impact and brief, it is important to move!
- Use your creative brain. Buy an adult coloring book and color, doodle, paint, or find something creative to do. It helps you to turn off other overactive parts of your brain temporarily.
- Tap into your spirituality; lean into God and his word, or nurture your spiritual side with thankfulness and gratitude practices.
- Relax! Take a nap or a hot bath. Breathe deeply from the gut.
- Don’t get overly attached to a single outcome. Things might not turn out exactly the way you want it to. Life is a process that unfolds over time.
Make self-care a priority this year because you are worth it!
-Gretchen