4 Self-Care Reminders During Stressful Times
As we inch closer to summer, the pressure of meeting deadlines, making plans, and wrapping up projects before the summer vacations can be overwhelming and extremely stressful. Self-care is often one of the first things we tend to give up during these stressful times, however, it’s one of the most important things we need to incorporate into our daily routines.
Here are some manageable self care strategies that can use to help you minimize your stress:
Prioritize sleep!
Sleep is one of, if not THE most important thing we can do for our brain health. Not getting enough sleep can lead to difficulty with decision-making, focus, and regulating our emotions. With enough sleep, we are more able to feel motivated, complete tasks, and effectively manage stress.
Quick Tip: SET A SLEEP SCHEDULE. Figure out how many of hours of sleep you need, set sleep and wake times, and SET REMINDERS for yourself to wind down!
Plan, plan, plan.
We can save SO much stress for ourselves if we simply just take 10 minutes to plan our day (or 5 minutes if that sounds less intimidating!). Actually planning for self-care is just as important as planning our to-do list. If we prioritize ourselves, we will ultimately feel more energized, focused, and motivated throughout the day.
Quick Tip: Write down THREE self-care ideas, and THREE things that need to get done - then SCHEDULE them, and GO FOR IT.
Take intentional breaks.
It might sound counterintuitive, but breaks are a CRITICAL part of self-care during stressful times. Breaks shouldn’t be just scrolling on instagram – instead they should be intentional breaks to take care of your body or brain!
Quick Tips:
Keep breaks to between 5-15 minutes.
Take one longer break after you’ve worked for a few chunks of time.
Incorporate a variety of self-care items into your breaks - i.e. walking your dog, stretching, getting a healthy snack, talking to a family member or friend.
Treat yourself!
Self-care is of course good for us, but it can also be hard. Rewards can be a powerful motivator in taking care of yourself. Whether it’s rewarding yourself for completing a task or showing up to a social event, sprinkle tiny rewards throughout your routine.
Some examples include:Spend time with friends or family
Let yourself sleep in
Go on a shopping spree! (within your means of course)
Order takeout from your favorite restaurant
Watch an episode of your favorite TV show
Start a new book
Go to a new coffee shop or bakery
Light a candle and relax
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