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BY BOWFLEX INSIDER TEAM
With a demanding workplace culture, overactive social world and a desire to balance all facets of your life — it can be hard to step away and give yourself the self-care you deserve. If you feel the need to escape from your everyday life — you need self-care. If you say yes to things you want to say no to — you need self-care. Self-care has been labeled as selfish, disingenuous and weak because it strays from the “work grind” and “can’t stop, won’t stop” mentality.
Realistically, self-care is necessary for any and all success. It isn’t about just your physical health, it is about your mental health as well. Social media, work, school, family and friends all can blur your perception of what is best for you. Often, we create a false idea of what we think we should be doing for ourselves, rather than focusing on what we need to be doing.
Remember, taking the time to care for yourself reflects on all facets of your life from work to relationships — it helps you find your balance and inner peace. In light of national self-care awareness month, here are a few ways to improve your quality of life and give yourself the “me” time you deserve:
FIND WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY
Whether it be an extra bubbly bubble bath, a face mask or a long walk on the beach, self-care comes in many forms. In order to cultivate wellness, we need to practice self-mindfulness. Be honest with yourself — What makes you happy? Where does this feeling come from? What allows you to evolve into the best version of yourself? Most importantly, don’t let others influence what you are doing; focus on you. Happiness doesn’t have to be fleeting. Find what makes you happy, and do it!
DROP THE “CAN’T STOP, WON’T STOP” MENTALITY
It is easy to get swept up in always saying yes, but this can have long-term effects on your mental and physical energy. Learn your limitations; not knowing them can be detrimental to your family, friends, workplace and school work. The “can’t stop, won’t stop” mentality is the master of self-manipulation and will burn you out. Be better with checking in on yourself and determining what’s best for you — it’s not selfish, it’s necessary.
CARVE OUT TIME
Always easier said than done — finding time for yourself may seem out of reach. Although, not making time for you can lead you into a never-ending cycle. Free up some space — put it on the calendar and have others hold you accountable. With the reinforcement of friends and family and a set time, you will get that extra push you need to make time for yourself. While at the moment it may seem easier to not do this, don’t overlook how important self-care is. Whether it be five minutes a day, or an hour a week — adopt this healthy mentality to improve your overall quality of life.
