Self-care has been a buzzword for a while now, and rightly so! Many are moving away from the notion that being the busiest and the most productive is the epitome of success and are starting to focus on more important aspects, such as listening to their bodies and minds, and slowing down to smell the roses. 

While many are trying to find their way through the “new normal” post lockdowns and restrictions, the one lesson that has been collectively taken away is that the world keeps turning whether we spend an extra hour in bed or bin off going to a networking event in favour of having some alone time.

This piece is going to take a look at some self-care suggestions for the new year, so you can enjoy life a little more nourished. 

What Does Self-Care Mean to You?

There is a general acceptance that self-care means putting on a skincare face mask, getting in the bath, and reading a book. While this can be excellent advice for those who are stressed out and need a moment to themselves, self-care does not look the same for everyone. It might be that self-care means you have to make sure you take your regular medication on time, that you know you deserve to have clean laundry to wear every day, or that you do need to take yourself on a walk, whatever the weather, to help lift your spirits.

Self-care is different for everyone, and it is not always the fun, cute suggestions you see on Pinterest. 

A Space to Call Your Own

Having a space to call your own is vital for mental health. While some people do need a little more alone time than others, generally, everyone needs to recharge and have moments with themselves. 

If you feel like you don’t have a space where you can be yourself in, this can be a great self-care goal for the new year. Choose a comfortable and stylish seat from Ligne Roset Hampstead, have a table where you can write or craft, and choose a room with a view if you can! Whatever makes you feel relaxed or inspired. 

Sleep

Sleep is essential for everyone, and if you aren’t getting enough, you are doing yourself a disservice. This year, try and get an extra hour of sleep every night, or create a routine, so you know you are going to get a solid 6 – 8 hours an evening. Everybody’s needs are different, but nobody is exempt from the problems not getting enough sleep can cause.  

Gratitude 

With everything going on in the world, and not a lot of it appearing to be particularly good, it can be pretty difficult to focus on the good that you do have. Practising gratitude can go a long way toward helping retrain your brain to focus on the positives, which can elevate your mood and make life seem a little more bearable, even in the darkest of times. Start small, with just one thing you are grateful for each day, and build up to 2, then 3. You might then repeat these to yourself daily.