In today’s world, constant busyness is the norm. When our schedules are full, it’s easy to go go go and never really slow down to think about how we’re doing both physically and mentally. A busy schedule is a great distraction but it’s so important to slow down every once and a while to make sure we’re really as okay as we act.

Self-care doesn’t have to take a whole day. It could be as small as a 15-minute break to do something that makes your soul happy. There are things I do every day to take care of myself.

The list may seem overwhelming but when I make it a priority to take care of myself and set aside the time to truly do it, it’s absolutely doable and worth it. Self-care is not selfish, it’s essential so I encourage everyone to find a few things they can fit into their schedule for the sole purpose of personal happiness.

Here’s what I do every day. These things are what work for me. Your list may be the same or it may be completely different, and that’s okay, as long as you have one.

1. Listen to music

Whether it’s listening to music or playing my guitar or ukulele, music helps me stay in touch with how I’m feeling. It keeps me motivated and it calms me down. Music is good for the soul and no matter what I’m needing at that moment, there’s always a song out there that I can relate to.

2. Yoga

Yoga keeps me in touch with my body. It’s challenging yet relaxing. It makes me feel good about myself and it’s a great way to learn about mindfulness and to honor what your body needs. I think everyone would benefit from yoga

3. Write

Whatever is going on, good or bad, write it down, put it on paper. Don’t keep it inside. Whether you share it or not, let it out.

4. Art

Art isn’t always about painting the perfect piece on a canvas. Art is about creating something from nothing. It’s about the process, not the product and when the focus is on that, it’s extremely therapeutic.

5. Human Interaction

Being social doesn’t always have to mean going out or partying. Especially in college, it can be hard not to feel pressured by that type of socialization. It’s okay to stay in and that doesn’t have to mean isolation. Sometimes all I need is to be around people, even if it’s just hanging out at home and being in the same room as another person. It could also be a phone call to friends or family. For me, it’s really important to get off social media and connect with someone on a deeper level. It’s human nature to crave connection and no matter how that happens, it’s a necessary component to happiness.