6 Glorious Daily Self-Care Ideas
Honouring Your Mind, Body and Spirit
You cannot pour from an empty cup.
But thankfully, by applying these daily self-care ideas, you can fill your cup to the absolute brim.
Think back to the last time you were on a plane and the flight attendant went through the safety procedure with everyone onboard. You’ll probably recall them explaining that if in need of oxygen, you need to put your own mask on first before helping others.
Why? Because there’s no point trying to help others if you don’t have access to oxygen yourself. Too often, we tend to get caught up in the day-to-day demands of work, household and social commitments. Our individual needs are frequently pushed to the bottom of the priority list. The never-ending to-do list seems impossible… and taking time for you can seem indulgent and selfish.
Well, we’re here to tell you it’s not.
Let’s say it together; “I need to take care of myself before I can take care of others.”
Got it? Because you cannot pour from an empty cup, and sometimes that cup needs to be refilled with a little TLC.
If we haven’t sold you yet, here’s some science behind it. Daily self-care practices can have amazing long-lasting benefits, including better stress management, the improvement of mental and emotional health, and it may even help to prevent sickness and disease. Self-care doesn’t look the same for everyone though, and there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. But there are some little things you can include in your everyday routine that may help to promote self-care and wellness.
Your mind and body will thank you for it.
Daily Self-Care Ideas
1. You can have your nutrients and eat them too
Okay don’t roll your eyes just yet; we all know we need a healthy to fuel our body. But did you know just how much a healthy diet can contribute to your overall wellbeing?
Eating the right nutrition can help to prevent short-term memory loss and inflammation, both of which can have long-term effects on the brain and the rest of the body. Often when we’re finished work for the day, opting for the quick microwavable meal or takeaway can be extremely tempting. Try to include nutrient-rich snacks throughout the day to minimise hunger and fatigue later in the day. If you find it difficult to fit in all of your required vitamins and antioxidants, consider adding one of our mushroom extracts to your diet.
2. Get your om on
Even if it’s just for 5 minutes each morning, meditation can help to clear the mind, lower stress levels and improve emotional balance. You can do it at any time, and at any place… whether it’s in your bedroom, in your car, or even in your office! If you’re not sure how to meditate or would like tips to improve your practise, check out our blog post on meditation tips.
3. Move your body
Not into the gym? That’s fine! Can’t run? Totally cool. Just try to move your body in a way that works for you. Have a dance party in the kitchen or try some yoga in the lounge-room.
It’s not breaking news that daily exercise can help you both physically and mentally (you just gotta love those endorphins). But it’s easy to fall out of habit. Try and switch it up each day to keep things interesting.
What’s more, learn how to incorporate incidental exercise into your day. Get off your bus stop early to get a few extra steps in, or go on a lunchtime walk. And if you feel those “can’t be bothered” thoughts creeping in, don’t forget how much better you’ll feel physically and mentally.
4. Don’t be afraid to say no.
Overachievers… this one’s for you. Learning to say no can be really difficult, particularly if someone is asking for your time. Listen to yourself and your body. If you find yourself dreading those dinner plans that you made last week, just cancel them. Be comfortable with saying no from time to time and be aware of overcommitting yourself.
5. Stay hydrated
Do you care about watering your plant babies more than yourself? Don’t wait for the headache to start before you reach for your water bottle. Drink water throughout the day.
Increasing your water consumption can help to give your immune system a boost, improve your memory and decrease irritability. We often wake up dehydrated from the night before, so start each day by drinking a big glass of water. It’ll help boost your energy and start your day feeling fresh.
6. Take some time for YOU
Okay, this sounds broad, but remember what we said about there being no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach? Whether it’s sitting down with a book, getting a massage or simply taking a bath, schedule in some YOU time each day. Even if it’s for only 20 minutes, book it in and stick to it.
Self-love is a complicated concept, and like all other relationships in your life, it requires patience, understanding and care. There are many different ways to exercise self-care, so it’s important to continue to explore what makes you feel healthy and happy in your mind, body and spirit.
And don’t forget - you can pour from your cup if you fill it too.
Psst. If you’re interested in the ways that mushrooms can enrich the mind, body and spirit, look no further than our Aussie Mind Body and Spirit Collection, featuring our three most popular organic mushroom extracts, Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail and Reishi.