5 Simple, Effective Self-Care Practices for a Healthier & Happier You
Self-care is not selfish, it's essential: try incorporating a few of these practices into your routine for increased health and happiness -To Your Increased Joy & Vitality!
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You know it already, I know that to be true, Self-care is not just a luxury, it's a necessity! Especially in the ever increasing pace of the world today. However, knowledge & taking action often necessitate an inspired bridge; knowing & actually prioritising Self-care can be very different things.
Taking time to care for ourselves has a profound impact on our well-being, helping us to reduce stress, improve our physical health, and cultivate a deeper sense of connection with ourselves. If we don't spend some time nurturing our body & soul the likelihood of illness, resentment, unfulfillment & possibly even burnout can take centre stage in our lives. Here I share my top 5 self-care practices to help you nurture your body, mind, and soul.
Get in touch & let me know what supports you most.
Tip #1 - Daily Exercise - A walk in nature or Yoga (even better outside)
Regular exercise is essential for maintaining physical and mental health. It helps to reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost your mood. Whether it's a brisk walk, yoga, or weightlifting, find an activity that you enjoy and commit to doing it regularly.
Studies have shown that exposure to natural environments can lead to a decrease in stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as an improvement in mood, cognitive function, and self-esteem compared to exercising indoors.
Personally, I am a big fan of Yoga & Walking/Being in Nature, combining mental, physical & emotional health benefits all in one. Of course it's not always possible in some climates but we do our best!
“One of the first conditions of happiness is that the link between man and nature shall not be broken.” - Leo Tolstoy, Russian author
Tip #2 - Mindful Meditation
Mindful meditation has been increasing in popularity & for good reason. It is a powerful tool that can help you reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
In a nutshell It involves focusing on the present moment and becoming aware of your thoughts and emotions without judgement.
Find a quiet space, sit comfortably, and close your eyes. Begin to focus on your breath, inhaling and exhaling slowly and deeply.
Don't have a meditation practice yet?
Start with 3 mins (one of my favourite books that reignited my meditation practice was called 'The 3 minute meditator' by David Harp.)
Just sitting for 3 minutes can open a doorway within you.
TIP: Try going out for a walk & sitting at intervals for a just a few mins.
There are three main components of mindfulness:
Intention - choosing to cultivate your awareness.
Attention - to the present moment, sensations, and thoughts.
Attitude - being kind, curious, and non-judgmental.
The best way to capture moments is to pay attention. This is how we cultivate mindfulness. Mindfulness means being awake. It means knowing what you are doing.” John Kabbat Zinn
Tip #3 - Detox ; Digital & Sauna-style methods
In today's digital age, it's easy to become overwhelmed and distracted by technology. Take time to unplug and disconnect from your devices. Try setting aside time each day or week to disconnect and focus on other activities, like reading or spending time outdoors.
Detoxing in the Sauna is a wonderful way to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind. A sauna can provide numerous benefits such as improved circulation, detoxification, stress relief, and muscle relaxation. They can also promote better sleep, reduce inflammation, and help with weight loss. With its ability to increase heart rate and improve cardiovascular function, sauna therapy can even lead to a stronger immune system.
All in all, a simple and effective way to improve your overall health and well-being.
Most Swim pools or leisure centres have a Sauna or steam facility.
Enrol a friend & get double the benefits
A Natural Sauna in the Garden is a feature of my next Garden Chilling Yoga, Sound bath & Sauna Day retreat (Half day options are also available).
Tip #4 - Nourishing Foods
Eating a healthy and balanced diet is essential for overall health and well-being. Focus on nourishing your body with whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks that can cause inflammation and contribute to chronic disease.
My retreat offerings always serve fresh, organic food prepared with love to nourish body, heart & soul.
Tip #5 - Relaxation Practices/Sound Healing
Incorporating relaxation techniques into your routine, such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, can help you reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Additionally, the benefits of Sound Healing are keenly connected to deep relaxation & restoration, with its ability to create, with rapidity & ease, Alpha brain wave states (8-13 hz) & Theta states(4-7hz) states.
Alpha states (8-13hz) are associated with creativity & openness while Theta states,
(4-7hz) create deep relaxation, reduced hyperactivity, clairvoyance, clairaudience & clair sentience. The Alpha-Theta state then is an excellent blend.
The powerful Yoga practice of Relaxation is called Yoga Nidra which can also be combined with sound healing instruments such as singing bowls & gongs.
Relaxation is a hugely underrated way to spend your time. We may feel as though we are achieving nothing, when in fact deep relaxation is like the master key to your immune response, your creativity, clarity & your inspired, connected action in the world.
So there you have it, a summary of my top 5 accessible Self-care practices. Of course there are more; Good water, Dance & Connection with loved ones also rank very highly on my personal list! In the interest of brevity; Spending time in Nature; maybe Walking, practising Yoga or meditating, Detoxing from the digital, using Saunas, as well as healthy eating, relaxation/sound healing have been the focus of this article.
If you've enjoyed reading this blog, please feel free to comment or share. You can also check out my Self-Care offerings for individuals, couples & groups for Yoga, Sound Healing & Wellness Coaching available in person or online
All Subscribers receive a 35% discount of the first individual sessions.
Join me for Group Soundbath Sessions or Retreat Days in Sussex
With warmth, Shivani Maria x