Self-care is all about keeping your cup full. When your cup is full, not only are you happy, but the people around you get to experience the best of you. Sometimes, people believe that to feel happy, they need to pour into others first, but it’s the other way around. A person who fills their cup first has more to give because they understand the importance of self-care. When we discuss self-care, I want us to see it not as a selfish act but as a form of self-love. It isn’t fair to give your all to everyone but you. Let’s start filling your cup up first.
Sleep Is Self-Care
How much sleep are you getting every night? If it’s less than 7 hours, you might not be getting enough. When we were babies, sleep was crucial for brain development, and even as adults, we still need adequate rest for optimal function. Experts recommend 7-9 hours of sleep daily.
As someone who struggles with insomnia, I know firsthand how important good sleep is. It helps me start my day energized and in a better mood. Without enough sleep, I can become irritable and less focused. To combat this, I’ve developed good sleep hygiene by having a nighttime routine and a consistent sleep schedule. I encourage you to prioritize sleep, as it’s not only essential for health but also a great form of self-care.
Nourish Your Body
How do you take care of your body? I believe diet and exercise play a significant role in our well-being. I’ll admit I’m not the healthiest eater, but I’m conscious about the foods I eat. I find ways to eat more foods that nourish me. They also happen to be foods I like such as apples, bananas, whole grains, and fish. I also want to admit I don’t go to the gym to work out. Instead, I like to use walking as a form of exercise. Taking care of yourself isn’t just about restricting yourself, it’s about adding things to your daily life that benefit you.
Make Time for Joy
When thinking about self-care, consider what you want. What makes you happy? It could be spending time with people you love, a walk in the park, or watching your favorite TV show. Whatever it is, make more time to do things you enjoy. Having fun is self-care. There is a saying: “Work hard, play hard.” We forget the last part, but I encourage you to have more fun in life.
Nurture Fulfilling Relationships
I spent a lot of time talking about things you can do for self-care. But I didn’t want to end without discussing relationships. While self-care is about you, the relationships you have matters too. Who are the people in your life that pour into you? Can you think of one person? When I ask who is pouring into you, I want to know people who support, uplift, and appreciate you. We need to make more time for people like that.
A Final Word on Self-Care
The most powerful way to keep your cup full is through self-care. It is an act of self-love when you take care of your overall health. Start with prioritizing adequate sleep, eating healthier foods, and exercising regularly. Then, make time for activities that bring you joy and surround yourself with uplifting people. By doing these things, you are keeping your cup full. Now, you can pour into others without being emptied. So, what will you do today to start filling your cup?