SELF-CARE: THE NEW HEALTHCARE

Self-Care

The New Healthcare

By Chantell Claasen

When we hear the term self-care, our minds typically wander to expensive skincare products and body scrubs that we’re sure will instantly change our lives, as having glowing skin means we have our lives together - right?

There is no rigid definition of self-care, and each different derivative can be as valuable as the next.

Self-care remains, in every form, a personal choice that involves making certain changes and decisions to improve your daily lifestyle. It encompasses all the necessary steps you take to make sure that your body and soul are well cared for.“

One of the most impactful facets of selfcare involves self-love. In fact, it begins and ends with self-love.

On the inside, consciously learning to love yourself includes continuously challenging your self-limiting internal dialogue, and how this causes you to show up for yourself in the world.

The Self-Care Trend Social media has had a huge impact on self-care. As health and wellness become more widely advertised and users share their experiences, the topic seems to be everywhere! Yet very few people truly understand what self-care is outside of pretty bath bombs and avocado face masks. It’s important to pay attention to the different kinds of self-care that aren’t necessarily as aesthetically pleasing or ‘insta-worthy’.

“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes - including you.” - Anne Lamott

Move in a Way You Love Practise self-care by taking care of your physical body. This doesn’t mean you have to do cardio or go to the gym every day, but it does mean that you should explore ways in which you can incorporate movement into your daily life.

- Listen to your body Some days may call for vigorous exercise, and others more gentle yoga or stretching.

- Mix it up A balanced exercise regime can include everything from running, cardio and HIIT to yoga, pilates and dance.

- Get your people involved In doing so, you can hold each other accountable while scheduling some healthy and wholesome quality time into the midst of your busy schedules.

- Rest & restore Remember to dedicate at least one day a week to rest and recovery.

“Self-care is how you take your power back.” - Lalah Delia

Tend to Your Mind Our minds are incredibly powerful and can influence our physical and emotional wellbeing. The kinds of thoughts you have will directly affect your ability to process your emotions and daily stressors.

Here are some ways you can consciously work to nurture your mind:

- Practise positive self-talk Be as gentle and kind to yourself as you would be to a beloved friend.

- Treat yourself You deserve that manicure/day of reading at the pool you’ve been yearning for!

- Pace yourself Try not to take on too many tasks at once, as this will ultimately cause you unnecessary stress.

- Seek out inspiration Choose a book, movie, or podcast that you can return to daily for renewed motivation.

- Try a contemplative practice There are so many options to be found online and in your community, with meditation, journalling, yoga, gratitude and pranayama (breathing exercises) top of our list.