9 self-care tips

Happiness is not selfishness.

But happiness does require taking care of oneself.

So for more happiness and balance in your life, check out these 9 self-care tips…

via PsychCentral by Megan Vossler

Are you feeling run-down? Are you continually putting the needs of others before your own? Do you feel like your life is out of balance? If you answered yes to any of these questions, consider investing in self-care. Self-care refers to the practices you engage in to decrease stress and promote general well-being. Practices vary from person-to-person, however, self-care as a whole creates similar outcomes: increased happiness, balance, productivity, reduced stress and a greater sense of control.

Practicing self-care tends to be the first neglected “to-do” during times of stress when in reality self-care is the antidote! When incorporated into your daily, weekly and monthly routine, you’ll experience a profound impact relative to the time invested.

Here are 9 self-care practices you can implement today:

1. Journaling: Journaling is a practice that takes minimal commitment with tremendous impact. While drinking your morning coffee or tea, write down your thoughts and feelings. Take a few minutes to jot down whatever comes to mind. There are no thoughts too insignificant to journal. This process allows you to acknowledge what is on your mind.
2. Mindfulness: Due to the busy nature of our lives, we often function on autopilot. Mindfulness, the practice of present awareness, can bring you back to a present state of mind. Try being mindful when doing simple tasks, such as washing the dishes. Slow down to notice the temperature of the water, the direction of the scrub brush, the smell of the dish soap or the feel of the metal silverware or porcelain plates. When you slow down to notice the sensations of the experience you root yourself in the present.
3. Limit the use of technology: With the popularity of internet-connected smartphones, it seems everyone is distracted 24/7. Being constantly connected can lead to a frenzied state, drawing your attention away from the present. Changing your usage habits with technology can have a substantial impact on lowering anxiety. Try to avoid looking at your cell phone first thing in the morning, establish a cut off time at night and choose a day when you are technology free!

…keep reading the full & original article HERE