In order to ensure good mental health, it is important to make self-care a priority says Barbara Randall, director of Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care Employee Assistance Program, who insists that small doses every day can have a positive impact on both body and mind.
As part of Mental Health Awareness month, Randall discusses what self-care is, why it is important and how we can make it part of our daily routine throughout the year.
What exactly is self-care?
Self-care is your oxygen. The act of self-care means using strategies that promote healthy functioning and enhance our well-being. Self-care can be integral to your overall wellness. By practicing self-care, you may increase your energy and your capacity to function on a daily basis. With a good dose of self-care, productivity increases, creativity expands and we are better equipped to handle day-to-day challenges.
Are there different types of self-care?
Most people think of their bodies when it comes to self-care. However, there are numerous dimensions of self-care and small changes can have a ripple effect on our lives. Self-care practices include financial, spiritual, environmental, intellectual, physical and emotional wellness.
Why don’t we practice self-care more often?
Did you know that some people believe self-care equates to putting yourself first, which in turn is considered selfish? We are to here to let you in on a little secret: Self-care is not being selfish. By practicing self-care, you are investing in yourself, which in turn allows you to be more present in your interactions with others. Instead of thinking about self-care as something that happens once a day or once a month (e.g., this is my self-care day), we invite you to build self-care into your daily lives a few minutes at a time.
What can I do to begin my self-care routine?
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