Everyone needs a few moments of decompression in their day. Moments to refill your much-needed well, let stress melt away, or to intentionally focus on your own needs rather than others. Don't have the space, the money, or the time to create one, you say? You'll be surprised by how just designating a corner, chair, or even a chosen spot on the floor in your home, adding a few thoughtful touches, and a daily, purposeful routine like a cup of tea or journal writing can rejuvenate you. Self-care is important, especially around the holidays, when stressors seem to rise.
This week, the mental health team at MCOE encourages you to create your self-care space. How can you elevate it? Try adding a stuffed animal, cozy blanket, potted plant or decoration to help you feel at ease. Self-care doesn't require expensive gadgets or decorations. The goal is to be intentional and to take a few moments of each day to prioritize you.
Taking it beyond your home, where does self-care happen at work? Is there a place where your professional community can offer some relaxation and decompression? How can those 5 minute standing breaks become less of a chore and turn into joy?
In the next couple of days, we challenge you to brainstorm ways you can up the self-care game at home AND work. Remember, self-care is a gift we give ourselves. Below are a few ideas to get you started, and a handy self-care infographic.
Self Care Ideas:
- Quick Guided meditation cards
- Short breathing exercises
- Coloring pages and/or books
- Tea/hot beverage station
- Quiet alone time
- Tactile comfort (soft blankets, pillows, stuffed animal, chairs)
- Collage
- Journaling
- Doodling
- Reading (self-help books, easy short stories, etc.)
- Aesthetic (Greenery (fake or real plants), colors, feng shui, ambient lights, posters and wall art)
- Nature: potted plants, social or alone time nature walks, pictures of trees, dried plants)