Life is busy. Like, it's really busy. Now that I've finally gotten somewhat of a routine down in my new life, I feel like I don't ever stop. Even my down time is plagued with thoughts of what I should be doing. My newfound hectic lifestyle, while it feels very fulfilling, is very anxiety inducing. After all, I have classes and rehearsals to attend, jobs to be at, homework/studying/projects to do, and relationships to maintain. During these hectic times, self care is important to me in order to keep my sanity and keep my life running smoothly. These are my favorite self care methods.
1. Breathing Exercises
Even though this is more of a coping mechanism, it is still my favorite and important to acknowledge. When I first realized I was suffering from anxiety, using breathing exercises to subside the attacks was one of the first and most efficient coping mechanisms I learned. It helps me when I can't sleep, or when I'm getting overwhelmed at work, or even when I am in a social situation where I am not quite comfortable. Deep breathing is an important exercise, not only to keep yourself calm, but to keep your body from hyperventilating, which can be potentially dangerous. Usually while I'm doing breathing exercises, I count backwards from 100 and by the time I get to zero I am calm and mentally grounded. If I am not calm by the time I get to zero, then I take it up a notch and count backwards by three's. 100, 97, 94, 91...
2. Positive Affirmations
Complimenting yourself can sometimes be a very tough task. When I'm feeling particularly low, reminding myself why I am so great can be fun and very helpful. Positive affirmations can be as simple or as complex as you want them to be. One of my favorites is that famous quote from The Help "You is smart. You is kind. You is important." I find myself repeating this line every once in a while. If you're having a hard time thinking of something nice to say about yourself, try thinking of some things your best friend would say about you.
3. Journaling
I am a firm believer that getting thoughts, positive or negative, out of your head is a great way to expand on them. For me, journaling is a safe place for me to reflect on my thoughts and ideas. It gives me the space to ramble without worrying about boring or offending anyone. Usually, I try to include some positive affirmations at the end of each journal entry or even just listing a few positive things that have happened in the day. Bullet Journaling is a trend that I have been looking into, which could be a time saving alternative to writing whole entries.
4. Be Selfish
Sometimes you just need to be selfish, and there is nothing wrong with that. Say no to the favor someone asked of you that doesn't fit in your schedule. Take a stay-cation from work. Take yourself on a date and go to dinner and a movie alone. Carve out time to make sure you are taken care of. You'll be surprised how refreshed you feel after that small bit of time.
With how hectic life can get, having small, positive things to practice that will keep your mind in check, can be very helpful. What are some of your favorite self care methods?