What Does Self Care Really Look Like Right Now?
Self-care tips are most likely dominating your inbox right now. During the global pandemic, the health and wellness industry is booming. But can a listicle of must-haves and workout routines really improve your mood and overall health during a climate of extreme grief and uncertainty? Practicing self-care is more than a lifestyle brand and eight hours of sleep––it requires consistently probing deeper issues, exploring insecurities and remedying ineffective habits. In short, it’s compassionate, constructive work on oneself. And it’s not a quick fix, it’s lifelong.
“When the world is slowly descending into the unknown, any semblance of familiar routine can be a welcome reprieve,” writes Nick Martin for The New Republic. “The work of care, of real meaning, is what we should be concerning ourselves with now.” In this new Covid-19 environment, you’re exercising different mental, physical and emotional muscles more than ever before. You need rest and reset days for all of those parts of yourself. But what does that look like, beyond clicking “add to cart” on a new serum?
On a recent Fearless in Training call, our team shared what real life “self-care” tactics were working:
- Organize your thoughts first thing in the morning. Since each day brings new challenges, and new breakthroughs, setting yourself up for success is key. Redesign your morning routine and include putting pen to paper to map out what’s on your mind. If you’re not sure where to start, we recommend the Vault Planner, which is made to “find the balance between the daily grind and long term goals.”
- Celebrate each win, no matter how small. Maybe you already have a to-do list, but you’re not able to check things off. Break down existing items into more realistic tasks and include life requirements like drinking water, calling a friend or taking a walk. Every project has multiple steps to it, so don’t forget to write down, check off and celebrate those, too.
- Incorporate art. There’s something about drawing or painting that unlocks childlike creativity. Grab whatever supplies are handy––watercolors, markers or pencils––and tap into your artistic side. Try collaging, making a mood board, drawing your own calendar or painting a card. You’ll feel a renewed sense of inspiration and accomplishment, plus, you might even gain a new piece of art for your home office.
- Be intentionally unproductive. Working from home 100% of the time means not knowing when the “workday” actually ends. Have you found yourself answering emails at 9:30pm? On a Saturday? With no clear boundaries, your mental health will burn out a lot faster. Set aside time to do something you genuinely love. Get some fresh air. Lay on your couch and watch your favorite movie. Eat chocolate. Take a nap. Whatever you choose, revel in your ability to take a damn break.
- Scream in your car. This primal, dare we say punk, suggestion is a great way to release whatever is bringing you to a boiling point. It’s quite literally what it sounds like: Get into your car and scream. Pro-tip, make sure you’re somewhere secluded to avoid a dramatic miscommunication.
There’s no shame in adopting a mainstream self-care routine as well. Incorporate some emotional health practices in tandem with the bubble baths, luxe skincare and yoga. While you’re lighting that scented candle, recognize that a deeper form of care, “the work of care,” as Nick Martin puts it, costs less and delivers much, much more for your self care practice.