My top 12 daily self-care habits

Last updated: 31 December 2019

The term ‘self-care’ is defined as ‘The practice of taking action to preserve or improve one’s own health’ and also as ‘The practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress’, by the Oxford Dictionaries.

While I’m not an expert in the field, on my journey to finding better ways for myself, I’ve been reading on the subject and have put it into practice. Based on what I’ve experienced, I’d like to share with you how I incorporate self-care habits into my daily life.

These are my top 12 tips:

1. Waking up early

First thing in the morning, open the window to let in sunlight, breathe in plenty of oxygen, and make your bed. This is the first step to starting your day wonderfully!

2. Drink water

Drink at least 2 glasses of warm/hot water on an empty stomach, with a total of at least 2-3 litres daily. I love adding special natural ingredients to warm water for detox benefits!

3. Meditation

A moment of meditation, some yoga and breathing exercises will help to start the day with serenity. I’m currently taking mindfulness meditation sessions.

4. Physical exercise

Daily exercising is important to remain healthy and in good shape. Choose the types of exercises that you enjoy, practice daily for the benefits.

5. Shower/bubble bath

Shower early morning to freshen up. Showering later in the day is also a great way to unwind and have a home-spa experience, after a long day at work!

6. Skincare routine

As part of my daily personal hygiene routine, I dedicate time to cleansing, toning, and moisturizing my skin, both morning (with sunscreen) and night. This not only gives you healthy skin, but you’ll become more poised as well!

For the gents, use a cleansing gel/shave if needed, and then use an appropriate product for moisturizing.

7. Healthy breakfast

My must-haves are oats with creamy milk, and different garnishings on different days. I vary my other breakfast dishes from day-to-day, to make them special and interesting! I relish my morning tea and when tempted to hit the snooze button in bed, I instead think of a cup of black tea, so that I jump out of bed right away,… and it works!

Planning an interesting breakfast is a great way to motivate yourself to wake up early!

8. Take breaks

At work, taking regular breaks will help boost productivity. However, the types and duration of the breaks differ from person to person and also the nature of your work.

9. Evening walk

I love to walk/jog in my lovely garden! If you have a dog, then spend time with your canine friend, playing outdoors. You’ll both benefit from it!

10. Socialize

Have family time and spend time with your friends. This is a crucial thing in maintaining relationships. As humans, whatever be our personality type, socializing aids holistic wellness! At work, have a good network of colleagues and business contacts.

11. Have proper sleep

Relax, practice body scan techniques, listen to soothing music and get daily proper sleep (around 8 hours). To sleep soundly, choose a dark and quiet room or wear an eye mask.

12. Pray

Praying every day, helping others and practicing gratitude will help you in many ways, in addition to self-care benefits.

There are endless ways for self-care. Find what suits you best and practice regularly. It’s all about caring for yourself. Self-care isn’t selfish! We all need and deserve it! Have you been taking due care of yourself? Do you have any tips to share? Please do so… Thank you!

Photo courtesy: Canva

Resources:

Definition of self-care

Encouraging people to choose self care for life