Pretty much everyone has a busy life. We have to juggle work, family responsibilities, healthcare stresses, household tasks, and everything else that comes with being an adult. But just because we’re short on time, it doesn’t mean we should let our self care needs take a backstep.

If you neglect yourself, you can burn out, meaning that you’re unable to do the things you want or need to do. So, here are a few self care ideas to take care of your body and mind.

Take Regular Breaks

The first thing to do is to give yourself time. Short breaks throughout the workday can be beneficial to your energy levels, mental health, and even your productivity. We aren’t designed to work flat-out without any respite.

Make sure to add these break periods to your schedule so you don’t “forget” to take them. When you’re on a break, even a short one, try to stretch, walk around, and make yourself comfortable. Exercise your mind with online games like backgammon or roulette that take your mind off your work for a moment. This allows you to concentrate better when you need to.

Exercise

While exercising might not seem like pampering yourself, it’s definitely a vital part of self care. If you’re fit and active throughout adulthood, you’re more likely to age better, staying more limber and stronger.

Find ways to exercise that you enjoy. This might be long hikes in nature, or this could be a workout session in a gym setting or even a sport. Sports are great forms of exercise and self care because they can also meet your social needs and you get an added boost if and when you do well.

Eating and Drinking

While the adage “you are what you eat” has seen a few different meanings, it’s good to think of the nutrients you take in when you eat. There is absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying treat foods and takeout now and then, especially if you’re too tired to cook or just want something different.

However, as a general rule, you should think about the foods and drinks you take in. Make sure that you’re meeting your nutritional needs and you aren’t primarily eating fatty, sugary, or salty foods. The key is moderation. Different people thrive on different diets as well, and a diet should be a lifestyle choice rather than a quick-fix.

When it comes to drinking, think about the amount of caffeine, sugar, and alcohol you take in. Water and beverages like herbal teas can be drunk without limit, so find ways to enjoy them when you want to quench your thirst.

Sleep Hygiene

Sleep is one of the most important aspects of your health that can go neglected, especially when you’re busy or stressed. Unfortunately, a lack of sleep can add to your issues, causing a nasty cycle of poor sleep, low mood, and lowered cognitive function.

In order to sleep properly, try to pick up good habits. Stop drinking caffeine at least a few hours before bed, and consider reducing your alcohol intake before bed as well. Even eating just before bed can cause digestive issues that keep you awake.

Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day so your body gets used to a specific routine. Sleep in a cool, dark room, and take some time to relax before going to bed.

Meeting Your Social Needs

One of the best ways to look after your mental health is to look after your social needs. Everyone, even introverts, has a social need of some degree. Some people do need more or less socialization than others, but it’s a good idea to find a balance that you thrive on.

Make sure to make time for your friends and family. This is also a good way to maintain your relationships, as time pulls people apart even more than distance. As well as keeping in touch, arrange days out and treats so you both appreciate each other’s company.

If you want to make more friends, consider joining hobby groups or taking classes in life skills, so you meet people with similar interests.

Treating Yourself

Finally, we come to the all-important self care method of simply treating yourself. Whether you enjoy spa days or solo travel adventures, the key is to take out a nice chunk of time just for yourself. A weekend away now and then can add a lot of joy to your life.

Self Care Ideas for a Healthier Body and Mind