Self-care has been bandied about for years, but it is only now when people are starting to see the value of making time for ourselves in this busy world. But what exactly is self-care all about?

To put it simply, self-care refers to the practices as well as activities that we do on a regular basis to help lower our stress levels and to improve our overall health. Take note, that this practice needs to be done daily rather than once in a while. It is a practice which you can easily incorporate into your day, so you will feel calm and relaxed.

There are different forms of self-care that you should know of, and these are:

Read a book

When it comes to self-care, you don’t have to spend a lot of money just to feel calm and relaxed, because you can easily pick up a book and read. The more you become engrossed with your reading, the less chance that your mind will be dwelling on problems that have been plaguing you.

Indulge in an Epsom Salt bath

Fatigue can easily settle in our bones and muscles that it is hard to shrug it off after a long day at work. If you are into practicing self-care, then preparing an Epsom salt bath, and soaking in it for 10 to 20 minutes can help draw out the toxins that are harming you from the inside, while helping ease the tension in your muscles. You’ll feel right as rain and ready for bed afterwards too.

Do yoga

Yoga is one of the best exercises that you can do in your self-care routine as it is here where you move in a meditative manner while stretching and strengthening your muscles. Focusing on your breathing as you flow from one yoga pose to the other helps get rid of all the negative thoughts that are running in your head. What you’ll get afterwards is clarity of mind and strong bones too.

Connect with friends

With our busy schedule, it is often hard for us to make time for our friends. You may not consider this, but reconnecting with your friends is actually one type of self-care that you can do every week. Go out and do something with your friends, and you’re sure to feel better and energized afterwards.

Be in nature

Sometimes the stress that we are dealing with everyday can take a toll on our mind and body. Sure there are several ways in which you can release the worries, anger, and confusion, but if you are pressed for time, take a break in the park and breathe in the fresh air coming from the trees. Go on hikes and even immerse yourself in nature where you can enjoy listening to the breeze passing through.

Rest

Another self-care practice that you should do, is to ensure that you are getting enough sleep every day. Start with a bed time routine that will help you fall asleep faster, deeper, and longer too. Keep in mind that your body needs ample rest for it to recuperate and repair itself.

Focus on a healthy diet

Your diet should also be part of your self-care routine because choosing nutritional foods over processed ones can have a huge effect on your overall health. Skip ordering from fast food chains when possible and start cooking fresh ingredients. You’ll see a huge difference to your overall health and energy levels because of this.