How Do I Develop Better Self-Care Habits?

Self-care is often defined as positive things you do for yourself to facilitate healing or tranquility. These things can be done to increase your self-esteem, improve your mental health, or even just to reward yourself. Self-care is an important way to honor and take care of yourself.

Self-Care Selections

When some think of self-care, they may think of a spa day, a nap, or getting a massage. Some might go shopping for a new outfit, get their hair done, or spend a night out with friends or loved ones. Having someone else take care of you and being in a fun, relaxing environment can make you feel fresh, relaxed, and pampered. 

If you are having a hard time coming up with self-care ideas, make a list of things that you never have time to do but always wanted to try. You may be surprised by what you find! Whatever you choose, remember that you deserve to take some time for yourself.

Self-Care for Busy Minds

If you are someone who does not relax easily or whose only idea of relaxing is scrolling through your phone or watching TV as you wind down at night, you are not alone. There are lots of people whose brains are wired to keep them busy. Self-care may seem like a tricky concept, but there are self-care options for busy minds as well. 

You could learn a new skill, create a piece of art or music, or fine-tune those woodworking skills. Planting and taking care of a garden or some landscaping can be a great way to keep yourself busy while calming your mind. Some people also like to learn new things. Take an online course and try a new type of computer software. If you have a home project that you have been meaning to get done, go for it! 

Self-Care on a Budget

Although they are nice, spa days can be pricey. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to practice self-care without spending any money. If you want to stay home, read a nice book. Take a bath with some candles and lots of bubbles. Watch a TV show that you consider to be a “guilty pleasure.” Make a meal for yourself. Trim and paint your nails. Wash and condition your hair. Spend quality time with your pet by going for a walk or just cuddling and petting them. 

Another great way to take care of yourself is to clean your space. Deep-clean your home and get rid of things you do not want or need. Once your home is all clean, invite a friend or loved one over for dinner or a relaxing day together. These may all be things that you like to do on a daily or weekly basis, making you feel like they are not really self-care. But doing these things consistently does mean that you are taking care of yourself, and that is great!

Self-Care for Health

An excellent way to practice self-care is by incorporating healthier habits into your life. Try eating new healthy foods or explore healthier options at restaurants. Your gut will thank you! You can also do some shopping and develop a skincare routine for your face and body. Yoga, meditation, or any form of exercise are good ways to experience self-care, too. 

If you have not been in a while, go for a visit to the doctor and the dentist. Even if you do not like to go, getting those check-ups is important for your health and overall wellness. If you have a prescription that is not quite working for you, talk to your doctor about different options. For some, self-care can mean abstaining from alcohol and drugs, going to a 12-Step meeting, or talking with your sponsor. Seeing a therapist may be a great step if you are feeling down and unsure how to get yourself out of it. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical help. For more information about how to develop your healthiest self, check out the National Institute of Health’s Wellness Toolkits. 

Self-Care for Adventurers

If you are a restless person who likes activity, the sky’s the limit! Take a vacation where you can see new things, explore tranquil places, and enjoy new foods or cultures. If you have access to a lake or ocean, try paddleboarding or kayaking. You could even use a boat or jet ski to make some waves. To get out of the house, go camping, hiking, or explore a new city. Try an escape room, a ropes course, horseback riding, or a cooking class with friends. Whatever you like to do, adventure and excitement are a way to perform self-care too.

Self-care in treatment and recovery is important for healing. You are allowed to be happy and do things for yourself that are not alcohol or substance-related. Self-care can be regularly checking in with your sponsor, treatment facility, therapist, or friends and loved ones. Self-care can be keeping track of your progress and celebrating sober birthdays. Self-care can be whatever you would like it to be, as long as you are experiencing positive results rather than consequences. If you need help or are struggling with sobriety, call us at RECO Intensive. At RECO Intensive, we understand that self-care can feel like a foreign concept if you have not practiced it in a while. Our professional staff and experienced alumni are here to help you create a treatment plan that is catered specifically to you. Your needs are important at RECO Intensive, and we want to help you thrive again. Call us today at (561) 464-6533. Let’s get back to a brighter future.