We live in a fast-paced world and society. We are in a hurry all the time: to get to work, to have a social life, to have a little rest, to combine the different activities that we must and want to carry out... All this haste inevitably means that issues arise that hold our attention and we have little time for something fundamental: self care.
What is self-care? Broadly speaking, we could describe self-care as taking care of our needs, taking care of our physical and emotional and mental selves. Good self-care habits lead to a better capacity for emotional regulation, greater well-being and better rest, among other important aspects. On the other hand, ignoring or neglecting self-care makes us more stressed, irritable, we get tired sooner or suffer the dreaded 'burnout', both at work and socially.
How to build good self-care habits? Next, we leave 5 simple tips to carry out on a day-to-day basis that will help take care of ourselves:
- ask yourself how are you: It may seem simple, but on many occasions we go through the days without really being in them and without knowing how we feel. Give yourself 5 minutes, in a quiet situation, to do a 'scan' of your body and mind, is there anything that feels strange or wrong? Do you feel any particular emotion? Does any part of your body hurt? Take note of these sensations.
- Take time to do enjoyable activities: on a day-to-day basis it is difficult if we have a lot of work or things to do to carry out activities for ourselves, but it is essential to reconnect with oneself. Find a time, it could be 30 minutes, to carry out a pleasant activity (read, play sports...).
- Disconnect and enjoy: disconnect from technologies, from the fast pace of always. You can do activities in nature, play sports or socialize. It is important to stop and enjoy life.
- talk about what you feel: we are social beings, so sharing moments, emotions and thoughts is key to our well-being. If there is something that worries you or is very present in your life, be it positive or negative, find someone you trust to share it.
- Try to carry out healthy habits: eating orderly and healthy, doing some sport and sleeping enough hours are the basis for being able to carry out all the above activities. They are physiological needs that, even being neglected at times, sustain us as living beings.
If, despite this self-care guide, you notice that you have difficulties, do not hesitate to go to a professional, be it a doctor or a psychologist, so that they can help you individually. From the Employee Support Program we can provide psychological help whenever necessary for free.
That said, take care!
Miguel Angel Cristobal Carle