What is self-care and why is it important?

What is self-care?

Self-care refers to the things we do to look after ourselves. These activities could be directly related to our physical health such as eating healthy food and exercising regularly. It can also refer to the things we do that make us feel good, like our hobbies and interests. Regardless of the activity, self-care is incredibly important and can help us live happy and fulfilling lives.

Self-care is something that many people do not prioritise, especially those with a very high work ethic, low-self esteem and/or those who strive for perfectionism. It can sometimes be deemed as overindulgence, and linked to feelings of guilt and shame. However, self-care is just as important as working and being productive, and thriving for balance can really allow people the best of both worlds!

What are some examples of self-care?

There are so many activities you could choose from, and it depends on what you enjoy. You need to choose activities that feel comfortable for you. You might like some of the examples below:

What are the benefits of self-care?

We know that generally self-care can improve our mental and physical wellbeing. Although it is not deemed as a mental health intervention in its own right, self-care is something that is touched on in multiple therapies, including Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT).

But what are some of the actual benefits of self-care?

– Higher work productivity. This may sound silly, but breaks really help you get more done, and to a higher standard! Breaks help revive some energy both physically and mentally, helping you achieve more when you go back to work.

– Boost self-esteem. It helps put you in the mindset that you deserve a break and to do the things you enjoy. Those with low self-esteem instead often feel like they have to keep pushing themselves, otherwise it means they’re ‘lazy’ or ‘stupid’. Finding balance, and making room for self-care helps combat this mindset.

– Helps relieve stress. If something is causing you a lot of stress, sometimes the best thing to do is to take a step back and implement some self-care. It can also help you with problem-solving the issue causing you stress, as you can come back to it with fresh eyes whilst feeling less overwhelmed.

– Helps reduce symptoms of anxiety. For a similar reason as outlined above, self-care can distract you and give you a break from worries.

– Can help boost your mood. Doing things that you enjoy can really help to boost your mood when feeling low. It’s the number one way to overcome low mood and depression.

– Can help maintain healthier relationships and boundaries. Sometimes it is vital to focus on yourself over others, as hard as that can be sometimes. This may seem selfish, but actually it is sometimes very important for our health so we do not experience burnout.

How can Brighter Life Therapy help?

Sometimes self-care activities aren’t enough, and mental health support is required.

If you are interested in using our service, we do provide CBT and psychotherapy sessions for children, young people and adults. Please do not hesitate to contact us by using our referral form below:

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Please fill in the details below, then press ‘submit the form’. Our Clinic Manager, Rhianna, will review the form and be in touch via email within 1 working day to discuss her recommendations. If we can help, we will provide you with a link to book an assessment with the most appropriate therapist.

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