Recognising your own needs: the importance of self-care

Life throws challenges at all of us from time to time and, whether we feel it at the time or not, all of us are worthy of taking time for ourselves and for reaching out to those around us for help and support.

Developing good self-care skills takes time and it can also mean giving yourself the permission to take some time for your own wellbeing. If possible, it is helpful to develop those self-supporting habits when life is on an even keel, but starting whenever you can is still beneficial.

Self-care can take different forms. Some things are likely to be beneficial for everyone. These include taking time out for regular meals, prioritising sufficient rest and sleep, and moving and stretching every day. Most people find that getting out into daylight and green space can be helpful, and walking is a good form of gentle exercise.

Have a think about what the good things are in your life. What helps you to feel at peace? What inspires or energises you? Or gives you that sense of being glad to be alive? This isn't an occasional luxury. It might be helpful to write out 3 or 4 of these activities and pick one to focus on this week.

As the old saying goes, you cannot pour from an empty cup. This isn't selfishness. This is helping yourself to be in a place where you can enjoy life, be able to show up for others and be able to recognise and respect your own boundaries. All these things are important in a balanced and healthy life.

Eye-level view of a serene park with a bench under a tree