30 Simple Things to Do to Give Back to Yourself
You probably hear it all the time, “make time for you” and “give back to yourself”. Even though you know it’s important to take care of yourself, you still push it back to the end of the list of things to do. We sometimes prioritize everything else to get taken care of first. I totally understand that, since life does get busy and can be stressful at times. But it’s very important to remember to fill our own cups too.
Today, I’m sharing a list of 30 simple things to do to give back to yourself. I encourage each of you to try to do 1-5 things per day. We can do this, right??! 😉
Why Self-Care is Important
Self-care is incredibly important for a person’s physical, social, mental, and spiritual well-being. It allows the body to decompress and not be in a constant state of high stress. Researchers say that chronic stress is the number 1 reason why disease and illness occur.
So what are some benefits of self-care?
- For one, it boosts your immune system
- Helps to increase your productivity
- Improves self -compassion and how you treat your body
- Helps with finding hobbies that are fulfilling and bring you joy
- When you are not in a chronic state of stress, you will have more to offer those around you
30 Simple Things to Do to Give Back to Yourself
- When you wake up and before you grab your phone, list 3 things (either out loud or in your mind) you are grateful for.
- Spend some time outdoors. Even 5 mins in fresh air can help you feel better.
- Remember to breathe. Intentionally slowing it down and breathing deeply into your lungs.
- Be sure to SLEEP. Even though you can run on 4hrs doesn’t mean you should. 8-10hrs is important.
- Journaling can be a great way to let out some of your feelings on paper. Holding things in can be very damaging health wise.
- Listen to podcasts that help you become better, either personally or professional.
- Don’t forget to laugh. Try to see the brighter side of things. Not always easy but it helps when things get stressful.
- Go out to eat. Shopping, cooking and cleaning everyday can get exhausting. Head out to a restaurant for a meal. Enjoy it.
- Spend time with your friends.
- Schedule a massage appointment.
- Treat yourself to a mani/pedi.
- Taking a bath or long shower.
- Listen to relaxing music.
- Find one new place where you live to explore/check out.
- Go for a hike.
- Head to the beach.
- Read a good book.
- Watch a funny or romantic movie.
- Take a break on social media.
- Say no to stress triggers.
- Eat healthy and drink water.
- Be sure to ask for help when you are overwhelmed.
- Take the time for your yearly doctor appointments.
- Try rearranging some furniture around to give the space a new look.
- Don’t over commit to things. Ok to say NO.
- Spend time with your loved ones.
- Turn off your phone.
- Be forgiving and gentle with yourself.
- Read inspirational quotes.
- Look in the mirror and tell yourself you were perfectly created. Unique and one of a kind.
Self-care may seem cliche but it really is important to be reminded of ways to give back to yourself. Also being encouraged to take the time to do so is key to you.
If you are looking for more of my self-care help posts, you may like to read Self Care and Why It’s Important
Hope you enjoyed these 30 Simple Things to Do to Give Back to Yourself.
Photos by: Banavenue Photo