How to Prioritize your self care with these effective self care practices

Effective self care practices

With our busy lives, self-care has become something that we often neglect and so, as a consequence, we do not take care of ourselves as we should. But it shouldn’t be this way. Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a non-negotiable. It is a steady pillar for well-being. 

In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to prioritize self-care. We’ll also share some self-care practices and techniques you can incorporate into your life to improve your overall well-being.

Meditation for Self-Care

Research has demonstrated that meditation is an effective self-care technique that is both simple yet powerful. These benefits included decreased stress levels, improved focus and concentration, better-quality sleep, and even a more robust immune system.

“Breath meditation” is one of the most simple meditation techniques, though there are many various techniques available. Simply choose a comfortable sitting posture, close your eyes, and concentrate on your breathing to practice breath meditation. As you breathe in and out, just notice the breathe. If any thoughts come up, notice and let them go. For five to ten minutes, keep breathing in this way.

Yoga as a Self-Care Practice

Yoga is more than exercise – it’s a powerful practice that optimises your well-being.

The physical practice of yoga, known as asana, can help to improve flexibility, strength and balance.

But beyond the physical benefits, yoga can also help to calm the mind, reduce stress, and boost overall well-being.

There are many different types of yoga. It is recommended to find a teacher if you are a beginner to guide you through it. But if you have done some yoga already, you can always find sessions on Youtube.

Nature for Self-Care

Nature has a powerful effect on our well-being, and even just a short walk in the park can have positive effects on our mood and stress levels.

Research has shown that spending time in nature can help reduce anxiety and depression, improve sleep quality, and boost overall health.

Try taking a walk in a park or just sit outside and enjoy the fresh air. Even a simple activity like gardening can have a positive effect on your well-being.

Journaling For Self-Care

Maintaining a journal is an excellent method for organizing and interpreting our thoughts and feelings. It can help us to reflect on our experiences, gain insight into our emotions, and track our progress over time.

While there are numerous approaches to journaling, “free writing” is an easy technique. Writing freely entails scribbling down whatever comes to mind without stressing over grammar or punctuation. The key is to just let your thoughts be, without judgment.

If you would like a more structured approach, you can check out my journals here. Shed and Shift Journal Collection

Gratitude for Self-Care

Another self-care practice is practicing gratitude. We refer to the process of recognizing and cherishing the good things in our lives as gratitude.

Research has shown that a gratitude practice can have a range of benefits, including increased happiness, improved relationships, and even better physical health.

There are many ways to practice gratitude, such as keeping a gratitude journal, saying “thank you” to others, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the small things in life.

If you would like to try, shed and shift has an exclusive Gratitude Journal: Gratitude Activation Journal

Mindful Breathing for Self-Care

The next practice we’ll explore is called “mindful breathing.” Mindful breathing is simply paying attention to your breath, in the present moment.

This very simple exercise has a significant effect not only on your physical health but also on your mental and emotional health too.

Here is a very simple mindful exercise to try. Firstly find a place where you can sit, make sure you are comfortable,  close your eyes and then focus your attention on your breath.  Start breathing in. It is recommended to breathe in through the nose, while breathing out through the mouth. Try to notice the rise and fall of your chest and belly with each breath. It’s natural for your mind to wander – just gently guide your focus back to your breath when that happens.

If you would like, here is an exclusive and beautiful meditation gift for you that can help you become more mindful of breathing: Access My Mindful Meditation

Grounding for Self-Care

Now we’ll look at a technique called “grounding.” Grounding is a tool that can help to reduce stress and anxiety. It’s based on the idea that by reconnecting with the physical world, we can become more present and calm. There are many ways to ground yourself, but one simple method is called the “5-5-5-2-1” technique.

To use this technique, simply take a few minutes to focus on your five senses. Explore your senses by identifying five items that you can see, five you can touch, five you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation for Self-Care

“Progressive muscle relaxation” is a very powerful self-care practice that can help induce deep relaxation.  It involves focusing on the body, and slowly going through each part of the body, and then tensing and relaxing different muscle groups in turn. This is powerful in easing tension and stress in the body.

To practice PMR, sit or lie down comfortably. Starting with your toes, tense the muscles in your body for a few seconds, and then relax. Starting from your toes moving forwards your head, slowly clench and release each muscle group as you move your attention through your body, let go of any tension as you relax.

Mindful Walking for Self-Care

The next practice we’ll explore is called “mindful walking.” Mindful walking is a simple technique that can help you become more present and aware as you walk.

To try this technique, take a slow walk, and focus on your senses. Notice the sensations of your body as you walk, the sounds around you, and the sights you see. Don’t rush, and allow yourself to take in your surroundings. Being aware of any thoughts or emotions that arise, accepting it all. This simple practice can be surprisingly effective at calming your mind and reducing stress.

Reiki for Self-Care

Reiki is a Japanese technique that involves channelling healing energy through the hands. This energy is said to promote relaxation and healing.

Anyone can do this practice on themselves. You don’t need any qualifications. Simply place your hands on your body, starting with your head, and focus on breathing. Let your hands rest on each area for a few minutes, and visualize your body relaxing and healing. 

Prioritize your self-care with these Effective self-care practices

Self-care is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. When we take the time to care for ourselves, we are investing in our own well-being. 

Self-care is a key ingredient to living a healthy, balanced life.

By including these self-care tips in your daily life, you will start seeing incredible transformation.