self-care

When you’re feeling overwhelmed with work and deadlines, or you find you’re too busy to do anything other than work or to please others, or just generally feeling stressed with how life is going, sometimes you need a break, and that’s okay! Sometimes it can be hard to remember that when things are getting too much. It’s important to not overwork yourself. You deserve a little treat every now and again, and sometimes you have to put yourself first. Along one of my many travels around the internet I found this comparison somewhere: (It was a while ago so I don’t actually know where it’s from, but if you recognise it feel free to let me know!)


You know how on a plane, the flight attendant says that in an emergency you should always put on your own oxygen mask before helping someone else? That’s some great advice right there, and not necessarily in a plane crash! For example, if you’re feeling a bit down but a friend needs your help and advice, it’s not selfish to help yourself before you help someone else! In order to be there for your friend and give them the best advice and support, you need to be in the best possible mind-set to give them the support they need. Just like in an emergency plane landing; In order to keep someone safe, you need to be safe too!


If you feel like you should be working, and feel guilty for taking a rest and watching the Jeremey Kyle show for five minutes, remember that in order to work to the best of your ability, you need to give yourself a break and allow yourself to re-charge so you can concentrate better and feel more relaxed and focused. You can’t work to the best of your ability if you’re stressed or feeling negative.


Of course, it’s great to put other people first but the balance between putting yourself first and putting others first is really important. It’s a great quality to have by putting others first and thinking of those around you, but you’ve got to make time for yourself too!


Sometimes YOU need the to take care of yourself to help yourself, because YOU should be your first priority, and sometimes you need to put yourself first and take a break. Remember, it is not selfish for you to take care of yourself! Give yourself a well-deserved break after a productive day working, or maybe you’re feeling down and need a good pick-me-up! Whatever you may be stressed or upset and/or frustrated about, treat yourself! With that being said, here are some ideas for self-care, as it can come in many different ways, and self-care means something different to everyone, and everyone has different things that help them relax! Hopefully this list will help you look after yourself :)


-Take a nice hot shower/bath, with your favourite scents, and lots of soap/bath bombs/bubbles!


-Dim the lights and light a candle. Sometimes, having a warm gentle glow in your bedroom might help you relax




-Watch a film that makes you feel good. Maybe a classic romantic comedy, or a cheery Disney film to lift your spirits! Thanks to Netflix, the possibilities are endless!
-Do some baking, maybe there’s a new recipe you’ve been dying to try out, and of course, the best part of baking is eating the fresh food you’ve just made!


-Go for a relaxing walk, sometimes going to a nearby park or woodland area can help you feel relaxed and refreshed, and any form of exercise is a great way to help your body in so many different ways


-Listen to music- whether you’re into rap, pop, indie bands, or rock groups, there’s always something out there in the world of music that’ll make a positive impact on you. Or, maybe play an instrument if you can, or if not, then why not learn or teach yourself something simple?


-Do something creative- express yourself! Whether your talents lie with writing, singing, dancing, painting, arts and crafts, expressing your emotions through an art form can be really therapeutic!

​Charlie