Self-Care Guide

Self-care is looking after your own mental and physical wellbeing to improve the way you feel in your own body and mind. Everyone has different needs.

Anything you do that makes you feel better or cared for can be considered self-care. The better you feel, the better you will be in all areas of your life.

Self-care can improve your physical health

A big part of self-care is looking after your body. It could be exercising more or getting enough sleep each night.

Self-care can reduce stress and anxiety

Making time for relaxing activities, such as taking a warm bath, listening to music; practising yoga or reading a book.

Self-care can boost your self-esteem

Treating yourself and others with kindness can make you look upon yourself more positively.

Self-care protects your mental health

To improve your mental wellbeing, taking time to care for yourself both mentally and physically is important.

5 steps to mental wellbeing - NHS Website

Self-care can lead to better relationships

The happier and healthier you are, the more you can give to a relationship. This is especially important if you are a parent or carer. It can be so easy to put someone else’s needs first, but you must look after your own health too.

Tips

1. Be kind to yourself.
2. Make time to do something you enjoy each day.
3. Create a routine.
4. Spend more time outside.
5. Take each day at a time.
6. Get enough sleep.
7. Keep in touch with people – a phone call could make their day.
8. Practice relaxation - try deep breathing and stretching to release tension.
9. Focus on what you can control.