Giving importance to only physical health means you are not living a healthy life as one must also focus on their mental health and emotional well-being, as all these elements act as a holistic approach towards self-care. Self-care has been a prime focus for many individuals, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic began as people realised that they not only need to be physically fit but also need to keep a tab on their mental well-being, given the coronavirus pandemic had impacted many people emotionally.
Self-care means doing an activity or inculcating a habit to feel good or content emotionally, physically and mentally but this activity must be done regularly and it is essential to make it a part of one's routine. Self-care can also include avoiding habits that affect one's mood and emotional well-being.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sandeep Patil, Chief Intensivist at Fortis Hospital in Kalyan, shared, “Practising self-care benefits a person's physical and mental well-being. This helps a person feel less stressed and anxious and puts them in a good mood, thereby improving productivity and motivation. Also, focusing on overall well-being helps people connect with their friends, family and even co-workers as it helps them connect better and rely on each other when one is having a tough day or is stressed out or anxious about something.”
He added, “Healthy lifestyle choices have immense advantages like a reduced risk of chronic diseases and increased longevity. Self-care activities can be as small as sleeping on time, drinking lots of water, and applying sunscreen as thy go a long way in helping a person take care of their body, skin, mental health etc.” Talking about creating a self-care routine, he advised, “To create a self-care routine, one can start by thinking about the things or activities they like but somehow never find time for them. It can be going for a walk or a swim. One should make sure to allot a specific time of their day as their 'me time, where they indulge in an activity without involving others. This will help them relax and focus on themselves.”
{{/usCountry}}He added, “Healthy lifestyle choices have immense advantages like a reduced risk of chronic diseases and increased longevity. Self-care activities can be as small as sleeping on time, drinking lots of water, and applying sunscreen as thy go a long way in helping a person take care of their body, skin, mental health etc.” Talking about creating a self-care routine, he advised, “To create a self-care routine, one can start by thinking about the things or activities they like but somehow never find time for them. It can be going for a walk or a swim. One should make sure to allot a specific time of their day as their 'me time, where they indulge in an activity without involving others. This will help them relax and focus on themselves.”
{{/usCountry}}He elaborated, “On days when a person finds it difficult to be consistent, they should practice self-care for a few minutes at least. Additionally, a person can also choose to switch their interests and need not do the same things every day. The most important thing is doing something for oneself for at least 10-15 minutes daily. Most importantly, never feel guilty about taking time out for yourself.” Dr Sandeep Patil shared some good options to start self-care at home that include any of the following activities and recommended adding them to one's daily routine:
1. Exercise
2. Meditate
3. Dance
4. Have a long hot shower
5. Waking up early to see the sunrise
6. Journaling
7. Read a book
8. Indulge in gardening
9. Have your favourite meal
10. Spend time with your pet or a stray whom you have emotionally adopted
11. Spend a little money on buying something for yourself
12. Go for spa
13. Decorate your house or room
14. Stargazing
15. Listen to music
16. Sing
Practising self-care can be done in various ways and forms and it has no drawbacks as it is holistic and can have tons of benefits, especially when practised for a long and sustained duration.
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