Hi, I’m Harriet, the Regional HR Manager for the Southwest Region. Today I am going to outline the important subject of self-care. In a fast-paced world, it is crucial to prioritise our well-being. Self-care is not just about bubble baths and face masks, although those can certainly be part of it. It is about intentional actions that nurture your physical, mental, and emotional health. It is the foundation of a balanced and fulfilling life.
Self-care can come in various forms, and it looks different for everyone. It could be setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, exercising, or even saying no when needed. It is about recognising what restores your energy and brings you joy. It is all about creating habits that prioritise your well-being. An example of this is dedicating a few minutes each day to meditation or deep breathing which can significantly reduce stress and improve mental clarity. If possible, schedule regular times for these and other healthy activities you enjoy. There are also wellness programs and apps, which can be utilised to incorporate meditation, muscle relaxation, or breathing exercises into your daily routine.
It is also very important to not forget about the power of movement, engaging in physical activities you enjoy not only benefits your body but also boosts your mood by releasing those feel-good endorphins. Just 30 minutes of walking every day can help boost your mood and improve your health. Small amounts of exercise add up, so don’t be discouraged if you can’t do 30 minutes at one time.
Self-care also involves nurturing your relationships. Taking time to connect with loved ones, having meaningful conversations, or simply spending quality time together can provide a sense of belonging and support. Furthermore, self-care is about setting goals and prioritisation. Decide what must get done now and what can wait. Learn to say “no” to new tasks if you start to feel like you are taking on too much. Try to be mindful of what you have accomplished at the end of the day, not what you have been unable to do.
All this is only possible by understanding the importance of rest and sleep. Our bodies and minds need adequate rest to function optimally. Prioritising a good night's sleep is a fundamental aspect of self-care. Stick to a schedule, it is crucial to not that blue light from devices and screens can make it harder to fall asleep, so reduce blue light exposure from your phone or computer before bedtime. Additionally, nourishing our bodies with healthy food choices can significantly impact our overall well-being. A balanced diet and plenty of water can improve your energy and focus throughout the day. Also, limit caffeinated beverages such as soft drinks or coffee.
Understanding how you are doing at work by asking for feedback can improve your awareness and emotional wellbeing. Rather than constantly wondering how your manager views your efforts, ask them to meet for a one-on-one to discuss your performance. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn your strengths and what you can improve. Learn to accept your mistakes. Making mistakes is a normal part of the learning process. Rather than dwelling on an error that you made at work, reframe it as an opportunity to grow in your role. Once you take accountability for what you did, start to turn the situation around by showing your problem-solving abilities. When thinking back to this situation, enjoy the solution you figure out rather than your initial mistake.
On the other hand, self-care can also be achieved by seeking professional help. Whether it is therapy, counselling, or seeking advice from a healthcare professional, prioritising your mental health is an essential part of self-care. It is all about building a lifestyle that values and respects your well-being. It is not selfish; it is necessary. When you take care of yourself, you are better equipped to take care of others and handle life's challenges. It is essential to remember that self-care is not a one-time thing; it is an ongoing practice. It is about consistency and making choices that honour your well-being.
To summarise, self-care is about intentional actions that nurture your physical, mental, and emotional health. It is about creating habits that prioritise your well-being, setting boundaries, seeking help when needed, and recognising what brings you joy and restoration. We at Motus encourage you to take a moment today to do something for yourself, whether it is a few minutes of deep breathing, going for a walk, or simply enjoying a cup of tea.
Remember, you deserve care and kindness, so prioritise yourself. It is not just a trend; Self-care is a necessity for maintaining our overall health and happiness.