Issue #40: Customizing Your Self-Care Journey: Finding What Works for You
Because self-care is not "one-size fits all"
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Hey friend!
Something that I try to be really mindful of as I am creating content and building Mind Body Brand, is that everyone’s journey looks different. What causes me stress may not be that big of a deal to you and what you do to rest may feel absolutely chaotic for me. My goal here is to provide you with tips and strategies for implementing more rest and self-care into your life and business WITHOUT making you feel like you have to follow this strict guide.
Self-care is beautiful but sometimes complicated. There isn’t a list of self-care practices that are guaranteed to leave you feeling full, calm and, well-rested. As someone who is already managing a business, home life, and/or career, I can understand how that can turn you off from focusing more on time for yourself.
I’d also argue that anyone trying to sell a one-size fits all option should reconsider their business model.
It took me years to figure out a self-care practice that I felt truly worked for me. I went down a deep dive of thinking that I had to be a yoga guru in order to really find peace. There was this one time that I tried to become a runner (which was a big fail). And I also got down on myself A LOT because I felt like I couldn’t afford the spa days and massages that I considered to be self-care.
But after a lot of trial and error, I finally found a practice that leaves me feeling rested, satisfied and recharged. I also realized during that time how important it was to get clear on what self-care looks like for you.
So how do you customize your self-care journey and develop a routine that works best for YOU?
GET CLEAR ON WHAT YOU NEED
Self-awareness is key. I spent so much time trying to make my routine look like everyone else’s that I completely ignored what my body was trying to tell me it needed. Instead of spending time on activities that won’t impact your overall health or happiness, get clear on the areas where you need the most rest or recovery. Here are a couple of questions to ask yourself:
Which part of my mental, physical, emotional, or spiritual health do I feel the most depleted?
Why do I feel so drained in these areas?
What does my mind and body need more of right now?
If you sit still and truly listen, your body will tell you everything that it needs. For me, if I’m going back and forth with the same negative thoughts, then I know that it’s time for me to journal through it or book a therapy session.
If you’re constantly feeling exhausted, pause for a moment and think about how your body is needing to recharge.
EXPLORE DIFFERENT SELF-CARE ACTIVITIES
There are a ton of options for activities that you can do that will support your overall wellness. Because of that, deciding what to do can be a bit overwhelming. But remember, self-care does not have to be expensive or time-consuming, nor does it have to look like someone else’s routine. The only way to do self-care wrong is if you don’t do it at all.
Let’s look at a few of the most common practices.
Exercise can be great for gaining more energy, staying physically in shape, and, also helping with anxiety.
Meditation is great for helping you to release unwanted thoughts or feelings and for becoming more mindful.
Journaling allows you to better process your thoughts and emotions.
You can start a new creative hobby that takes your mind off of day-to-day work.
And then there are more of the “soft life” type of practices like warm bubble baths, deep massages, or spa days. The list of ways that you can “self-care” is endless. But here is what I encourage you to focus on when deciding,
What helps me to recharge and feel good?
That’s the difference between what works for you and what works for someone else, what makes YOU feel good?
So I love taking naps and I try to take them daily. But my husband despises them! He’d rather watch a movie or play his video games. Neither of us is wrong because we are very aware of what makes us feel good. Do what makes you feel like your best self. And if you’re unsure, try out a few different activities until you find your sweet spot.
CREATE YOUR SELF-CARE TOOLKIT
A self-care toolkit is a list of go-to practices that you implement during your rest time. This toolkit can include anything that again makes you feel good and helps you to rest and recharge. For me, my self-care toolkit includes:
Daily naps
Morning journaling
Evening prayer time
Walking at least one mile
Therapy
Digital drawing and coloring
If you’re new to prioritizing self-care or unsure of which activities to do, I encourage you to try a little bit of everything. Also, don’t feel like what you do now, has to be your go-to practice forever. Your needs will change, and your mood will change, so it’s ok to adapt your routine to whatever season you’re currently in.
I want to hear from you! What does your self-care toolkit look like? Let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram!
If you’re looking for a little more help with building your self-care toolkit, every month I release a Digital Self-care toolkit to paid subscribers that includes guided meditation, journal prompts, affirmations and, more! Upgrade your subscription now to check out past toolkits!
Cheers to a restful week!
– Alisha, founder of Mind Body Brand
GOOD READS, PODCASTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
😱 Missed last week’s issue? We talked about how to break through the stress cycle! Catch up on the conversation.
🧘🏽♀️ If you’re still not convinced that you can customize your own self-care routine, here are 50 practices that you can implement.
💰 Does Summer have your finances looking a little…thin? Here’s how to actually stick to the budget you keep creating.
🛑 Are you aware of your relationship deal breakers? Here’s how to identify them and bring them up with your partner.
📱 Seems like every social media pp right now is trying to outdo the other. Here’s what it could mean for you and your business.
DON’T FORGET TO BREATHE
