Do you take care of yourself?
Updated: Jan 2, 2021
As women, we go through a lot, and I think people forget that. Society constantly pressures us to behave a certain way and live up to so many expectations. These pressures tend to strain our mental health, so it is important that we take care of ourselves.
When women endure stress, we have this habit to 'keep pushing'. We always have to be 'strong', but it’s okay to not be strong! The narrative that gives rise to this mentality needs to disappear because it isn’t healthy.
Remember that YOU are your priority. Your mental health is important and should be treated as such. Though there are many things you can do to foster your mental wellbeing, here are a few suggestions:
YOGA
Yoga is a practice that many people engage in to promote relaxation and mindfulness. It originated in India around 2700 B.C as a means to promote spiritual development, mind-body awareness, and self-observation. Yoga has since become a very popular practice worldwide. There are many benefits of practicing yoga, which can include, increased flexibility, muscle strength, cardio health, and much more. Think about it! Play some calming music, grab a mat, and get started! Here are some free online resources that you can use to start or continue your yoga practice:
Faith Hunter's Yoga Channel
Yoga with Tim
READ
Find a book to read! Reading a good book has the ability to calm the mind and take you so many places. As you read, let your mind wander and allow yourself to be freed from your day-to-day life. I recommend trying to read every day (even if it’s only 10 minutes of reading before bed.) Also, try to find books about things you’re interested in. Whether you like sci fi, romance, or mystery I'm sure there's a book out there for you to discover. Check out these resources to discover new book titles and find free eBooks:
WRITE
Write down your thoughts. Get a journal. If you are stressed, you have to let it out. A healthy way to do that is through writing. Write what you are feeling, what you did that day, anything! Put on some soft music, and just let your pen carry you away. If you are stuck, check out these free guided journaling resources:
Janine Ripper's 105 Writing Prompts for Self-reflection
TAKE A BREAK
It’s okay to say enough is enough and not over work yourself. Stress takes a physical toll on you, and at some point your body will let you know when enough is enough. You don’t have to work yourself to that point. Listen to your body, go lay down, go do something you enjoy, and most importantly, RELAX!
Remember that YOU come first. If you do not take care of yourself, then you will not be able to be your best self. You are beautiful and hardworking, but you are not a machine. You need to rest.
Stay beautiful INSIDE first.