Everyone needs self-care in their life in order to live up to their full potential. While few people would dispute this notion, many more would explain why it’s so challenging to incorporate in their daily lives. More times than not, it comes down to time, money, or both. It’s understandable that a person overwhelmed at work struggles to make it to the gym every day, or that someone who is trying to make ends meet for their family may not prioritize a trip to the spa.
The thing about self-care, however, is that you can work it into your life without transforming your schedule or budget. Making small but significant changes to your routine can do wonders for your physical, mental, and emotional health. If you want to improve your overall well-being but are limited on time and/or money, here are some ways you can add self-care into your life.
Take Advantage of Vacation Time
If you get vacation time at work, use it. Time away from your daily obligations can reduce stress, give you a fresh perspective on life, and keep you from burning out. You can save a lot of money by pitching in with friends or family on a vacation rental property near local activities you’re interested in. Turnkey notes that hanging around the familiar streets of San Diego can be ideal for relaxation with top attractions like the iconic Swami's beach, the San Diego Zoo, La Jolla Cove or just poking around the Gaslamp Quarter. With a little careful digging, you can find the perfect rental with all the amenities you're seeking (cleanliness should be your number one priority) to make for a safe, rejuvenating experience.
Do Something Relaxing Every Week
While a vacation is necessary every now and then, you want to make sure you have a relaxing activity as part of your regular routine. This could be any budget-friendly activity in your area that helps you unwind and have fun. You could revisit a childhood hobby or try something completely new; just make a point to do it once a week.
Revisit Your Eating Habits
Diet is critical to your overall health and well-being, so try to cut back on the processed foods you eat and opt for whole foods like vegetables, fruits, eggs, lean meats, nuts, and seeds. One of the best ways to eat healthy on a budget is to meal prep once a week. That way, you have more control of what you eat and you’ll be less likely to dine out. Don't forget to pair your diet with a good-quality supplement to really give your health a boost. Nutrii's supplements contain premium ingredients and are formulated to help you look and feel your best.
Don’t Be Sleep Deprived
One-third of Americans are not getting enough sleep. But our health and well-being suffer without a good night’s rest. Work out a solid bedtime routine that earns your body and mind the recovery and regeneration they need, and you’ll feel much better and be more productive.
Develop a Steady Fitness Routine
Exercise is another one you’ve undoubtedly heard a lot about. That’s because regular exercise comes with a slew of physical, mental, and emotional health benefits. Find a fitness routine that you enjoy — whether it’s HIIT, yoga, running, cycling, or anything else that gives you a good workout — and do it for 30 minutes, five times a week.
Don’t Commit to Everything and Everyone
It can be tough to say “no” to people because it’s tough to disappoint people. However, when you overcommit, you can’t devote all your energy to everything you do. Learn to say “no” when you need to rest or when you need to take care of something that’s higher on your priority list (e.g., family, mental health, etc.). That way, you can fulfill your commitments at 100 percent.
Have Grace on Yourself
This is an important but often neglected way to practice self-care: don’t be too hard on yourself. Adding self-care will require some adjusting, and you will have to learn a lot of it as you go. Just stay focused on the benefits it brings to your health and well-being, and keep moving forward.
Celebrate Along the Way
Another thing to keep in mind when it comes to self-care is that you should enjoy the journey. From the day you start making changes to 15 years down the road, always find positives with what you’re doing and celebrate along the way. This will help you to enjoy the journey and to make attainable goals for each step.
Be Intentional About Your Relationships
Last but not least: prioritize your relationships. Social life often gets swept under the rug when self-care is discussed. However, we are social beings, and we need the company of others to truly make us happy. Make sure you are spending quality time with the most important people in your life during your journey of self-improvement.
Practicing self-care doesn’t require you to cancel all your obligations or dip into your savings. Just try to make mindful changes to your routine that will foster your physical, mental, and emotional health. A commitment to self-care is a commitment to bettering yourself, and you will likely experience astonishing results along your journey.
