Taking a Break and Self-Care

Time for a Break.

We’re all aware that writing a book is difficult and that we’ll need to take breaks from time to time.

I’m working on my second book while blogging, which is a difficult mission. It ranks right up there with my sink full of dishes, my mountain of laundry, and deciding what to make for dinner tonight. My dishwasher is broken, laundry has been staring me down for two weeks, and I refuse to serve the never-ending chicken for dinner!

On days like this, I must think about my mental health. When things become too much for me, I turn to self-care. Unfortunately, we may often neglect self-care as we get bogged down with day-to-day life. Nevertheless, scheduling time to check in with our mental and physical health is essential. Ideally, we could plan some time each day; however, that’s not always easy, so I at least schedule time each week. 

How does self-care help?

Self-care allows you some time to chill out. It allows me to feel more grounded or present. As the world rushes by, I can enjoy the simple activities that bring me joy. Being present in the moment can reduce anxiety and stress and make you feel more energetic. But that’s really just the tip of the iceberg! There are so many benefits to regular self-care. 

• Reduce anxiety, depression, and stress
• Better sleep
• Better productivity
• Improved self-esteem
• Immune system boost

In what ways can I practice self-care?

My favorite way to practice self-care is laughter. Laughter is the most effective antidote to stress or depression. It’s difficult not to feel better after a fit of hysterical laughter. So when I need a good laugh, I call my daughter. She has this uncanny ability to make me laugh even when I don’t want to. 

There are so many options for practicing self-care. It’s best to make a list of ideas in advance. That way, you can quickly choose an interest when you have time. Consider these areas of your life:

• Cognitive
• Emotional
• Environmental
• Financial
• Occupational
• Physical
• Social
• Spiritual

Then you can find activities that fit in those areas. When you want to work on a particular area, choose an activity. 

Here are some examples:

• Cognitive: Puzzles, trying something new, taking a class, watching a documentary, reading, listening to podcasts
• Emotional/Mental: Journaling, listening to music, playing video games, catching a movie, hugging someone, coloring, creating a morning and evening routine
• Environmental: Cleaning a room, gardening, re-organize your space, lighting a candle, going for a drive
• Financial: Making a savings plan, buying yourself a treat, donating
• Occupational: Revamping your resume, learning a trade
• Physical: Working out, swimming, taking a walk, making a doc appt, napping, stretching, taking a shower or bath, dancing, meal planning, manicure/pedicure
• Social: Calling a friend, visiting family, writing a letter, volunteering
• Spiritual: Yoga, meditating, watching a sunset

Do you practice regular self-care? What are your favorite activities?