Simple Steps for Better Self Care
By Ruth Furman
Everyone talks about self-care, but what does it actually mean? And how does one successfully integrate self-care?
I struggle with consistency in self-care. I tend to put myself last and overcommit my time.
I decided to really focus on self-care last year and learned about radical self-care through a podcast started by Sheri Salata and Nancy Hala, “The Sheri + Nancy Show.”
Their “pillar life” approach inspires me.
I have developed my own self-care practices that work for me and add joy to my life and my work.
Here are some tips on self-care that work for me.
- Add structure to how you start your day. It sounds really basic, but if I get really busy and I’m home I could sit in my workout clothes all day. For me, I am happier if I shower, use a little scented lotion, wash and blow dry my hair and get dressed in real clothes with earrings. I feel when I do that I am more confident and more joyful. I’m also more productive.
- Move daily. For me, even if I don’t do a full workout I like to integrate some type of movement into my day. It could be a short break or a walk. Mindful movement for me is a form of self-care and brings me joy. I’ve also been known to stand up when I’m on phone calls.
- Be kind and patient with yourself. I often get frustrated when I veer from a goal. Radical self-care for me is all about loving myself in the moment and giving myself permission to start over when I falter. I also have learned to be more realistic with goals.
- Embrace technology, especially when it’s helpful. I’m all about productivity apps. And my favorite gift this year was The Tile App Bluetooth tracker, which helps me locate lost items. I always used to lose my keys. It happens.
- Be deliberate with your time and how you choose to spend it. Pause before you say yes impulsively. Leaving a little margin in my day almost always leads to great surprises.
Ruth Furman is a Las Vegas resident who works in the marketing and communications field.