Volunteer Youth Ambassador Harvey shares his top 5 self care tips for being kind to yourself when you’re feeling more ‘back to bed’ than ‘back to school’.
Looking after yourself should be a top priority for everyone. It is often overlooked until comes along that forces us to take notice, especially when we all lead such busy lives. Sometimes we forget that to be the best we can be and give back to the community, we must care for ourselves first. It’s not about being selfish. It’s about making sure our own glass is full before we start pouring into others.
I’m no expert in self-care but here are some of the things I do that really help me and I’m sure they will help you to recharge and replenish yourself too:
Be Kind to Yourself
Sometimes we forget how important it is to be kind towards ourselves. Speak to yourself like you would speak to your best friend. Give yourself the same encouragement and love. Doing this daily can help to recharge your mental wellbeing and it really does make a difference.
Wake Up Early
If ever you read those ‘number one tips from successful people’ articles, getting up early is always cited. Get up as early as possible and you have more time to yourself to complete your goals. You can also, possibly, have all the things you don’t want to do sorted out by breakfast time. Best start to the day possible.
Sometimes, just getting out of bed feels like an achievement. And it is an achievement. It’s good to start the day with a success.
Music and mood – Do you have an inspirational playlist?
I love my music, it has always been there for me when there’s been no one else around. It’s fitted every emotion possible through school, when I’m working or travelling and just hanging out with friends and family. If I’m ever in any kind of mood, it’s usually the music I’ve been listening to that has got me there.
Accept what you can’t control
Often we need to release the way we want things to go and accept things for the way they are. When we do this, we open up space for relaxation and acceptance, it also gives us space for new opportunities to emerge.
Finally, take a break
Whatever it is you’re trying to do you need to take breaks. I know myself now, and my working style. I know when it’s time to step away from my laptop, take a break and refuel. And when you do take a break, actually take one! Don’t swap your computer screen for your phone or tablet screen as that won’t do you any good! Sometimes, you might not want to do anything when you take a break and that’s fine – just sit quietly or go for a walk if you feel like it, the most important thing is that you are giving your mind a rest!
I hope that you’ve enjoyed reading my top five self-care tips, make sure that you start taking care of yourself, it’ll be the best thing you ever do!
