Whether you are burnt out from a stressful week at work or just feel like treating yourself to a relaxing Sunday, taking a self-care day is always a good idea! This does not mean that you need to fill your bath with lots of bubbles and soak your body while you are drinking wine until the stress falls off your shoulders — self-care looks different to everyone and can change depending on what you need to fill your cup.
If you have gone awhile without practicing self-care, try to reflect on what Is stopping you. Many of us have internalized myths, like: “I only deserve self-care when I’ve worked hard enough,” or “Self-care is selfish. I need to take care of others now.” In reality, you can only be productive at work and kind to the people around you when you are kind to yourself. The more you practice showing up for yourself and setting boundaries to protect your mental and physical health, the more you will be able to show up at work, for your friends, and family as well.
There are five types of self-care:
Emotional: processing, reflecting on, and connecting with your emotions
Social: reaching out to nurture social connections
Physical: improving your physical health
Mental: stimulating your mind with an intellectual activity
Spiritual: engaging in a spiritually practice or activity
Before you treat yourself to a Sunday that is good for your mind, body, and soul, check in with yourself first and find out what you need to feel better.
Are you missing your friends and feel like social self-care should be on the menu today? Call up a loved one to have a chat or meet them for a cup of coffee and a walk. Do you feel disconnected and restless? Perhaps a yoga session or a guided meditation will help you feel more centered again. Is your body feeling sluggish? Some physical self-care in the form of a run, walk, or nap may be what makes you feel like yourself again.
If you have been feeling emotionally drained, find an activity that lifts your spirit. Whether that is writing in your journal, talking to a mental health specialist, or trying out a new recipe — do something for yourself!
And, finally, focusing on work and other people's needs can be tiring. Don’t forget to reset by stimulating your brain on the weekends (and evenings after work). Watch a movie, read a book, or play a board game to foster your intellect, creativity, and the child within.
Check out the recipes below to make the most out of your self-care Sunday! Never forget that self-care should not just be practiced on the weekends, as tending to the needs of your body and mind are crucial to maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Mona Freund is a San Diego-based content marketing specialist. When she is not working on new content, you can find her surfing in the Pacific Ocean, playing frisbee with her puppy Pesto, or baking her famous chocolate chip cookies.