How To Start a Self Care Routine

Starting a self-care routine can feel overwhelming, especially if you've never prioritized it before. However, taking small steps can help make this process enjoyable and effective.

1. Identify Your Needs
   Take a moment to reflect on what areas of your life feel most in need of care. Write them down. Are they mostly physical, mental, or emotional wellness issues? This will help you decide on your self-care activities.

2. Set Realistic Goals
   Be sure to set realistic, achievable goals. If you’re not already a yogi, you’re not going to become one in a week. Keep it really basic, like drinking 3 more glasses of water each day, or dedicating 5 minutes to meditation three days per week. Keep in mind that self-care can be flexible (so are your needs!) and it doesn’t have to be perfect…meaning YOU don’t have to be perfect.

3. Create a Schedule
   Designate specific times or days for your chosen self care routine. It could be a nightly skincare ritual or a weekend morning dedicated to reading. Treat this time like an important appointment for yourself!

4. Explore Different Activities
   Experiment with various self-care practices. Consider these:

   • Physical: Join a yoga class, go for a walk, or try tai chi or qigong.

   • Mental: Read a book, journal your thoughts, or practice mindfulness meditation.

   • Emotional: Connect with friends, engage in a creative hobby, or seek therapy if needed.

5. Incorporate Mindfulness
   Focus on being present! Put away distractions like phones or screens, unless you specifically need them for your self care activity (like watching yoga videos, or listening to meditation music).

6. Listen to Your Body and Mind
   Pay attention to how your chosen activities make you feel. If something doesn’t resonate with you, it’s okay to adjust or try something new. Self-care is about personal needs.

7. Reflect and Adjust
   At the end of each week or month, take a moment to evaluate your routine. Reflect on what worked and what didn’t, then adjust accordingly so that it remains enjoyable and beneficial.

8. Seek Support
   If you're unsure where to start, consider reaching out to professionals for guidance. Reach out to us at Haven if your needs are simple; we are happy to recommend some easy additions to your life that can enhance your self care routine.

By gradually implementing these steps, you'll cultivate a self-care routine that nourishes your mind, body, and spirit. Remember, self-care is a journey, not a destination, and it’s perfectly okay to take your time finding what works best for you.