Self-Care: What It Is and Why You Should Do It This New Year

By: Jamie Kaun

Every new year, many of us make statements (also called resolutions) about what we want to achieve in the upcoming year, such as losing weight, exercising more, eating more healthfully, and many more.

These are all wonderful physical goals to optimize your health, but it’s also important to focus on ways to improve your mental health as well.

You’ve likely heard people say that self-care is important to boosting your mental well-being — but what does that really mean? Taking a bubble bath? Treating yourself to a meal out? Getting a new outfit?

While it can be those things, it doesn’t have to be something you do that seems luxurious. It can be as simple as getting some fresh air by taking a walk around your neighborhood. Calling a friend whom you haven’t spoken with in awhile to let them know how much they mean to you. Meeting with some friends at the YMCA for a fitness class followed by conversation and coffee.

Self-care means doing whatever is needed for you to be physically and mentally prepared to do whatever you need (or want) to do each day — work, drive the kids to all their activities, run errands, etc.

Physical self-care is just that — taking care of what your body needs physically like hygiene, healthy food and exercise. 

Emotional self-care is doing things that encourage you to experience less stress — saying no thanks to taking on additional tasks at the moment, reading a book, or meeting a friend for lunch for great conversation.

Spiritual self-care is just what it sounds like – going to church, meditating, being “one” with nature or whatever brings you a sense of peace and connection to something greater than yourself.

To make self-care a regular part of your routine, consider the following:

1. Give some thought to what REALLY brings you joy. What helps you relieve stress? What makes you feel reenergized and ready to tackle your to do list and other responsibilities?
2. Don’t try to jump in all at once – start small so you’re more likely to stick with it.
3. Think about how this addition to your routine makes you feel. It will help you remember why it’s important.
4. Seek support when you need it. Share your goals with friends and loved ones who will encourage you. Consider engaging with a professional to help you achieve your self-care goals, such as a therapist or pastor.