Self-Care Checklist: Start Taking Care of YOU

A self care checklist is one of the best ways to monitor your daily and weekly self care.

Although self-care is a very simple concept it is easily overlooked. In times that we are busy, stressed, depressed or anxious self-care is usually the first thing that is overlooked.

Also, sometimes we are so focused on taking care of others that we forget to take care of ourselves. This is especially true for busy moms.

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What is Self Care?

According to PsychCentral Self-care is any activity that we do deliberately in order to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical health.

Self care ensures that you are taking care of you. Taking care of yourself helps to protect you from things like burnout and stress-induced sicknesses.

Self-Care Checklist Printable

Download our free weekly self-care checklist. It is a free printable that you can use each week to ensure that you are managing your self-care properly.

Self Care Checklist for Depression

For those that suffer from depression, and anxiety self-care is even more important. Although sometimes difficult, having a self-care routine can be a really big help in coping with symptoms.

Focusing on self-care will allow you to pay attention to your mind and your body and be aware of times when you are feeling depressed or anxious. If this is what you are currently experiencing, it may help to speak to a therapist and integrate your sessions into your own personal self-care regime.

There are many types of psychotherapy techniques such as humanistic and cognitive-behavioral therapies, that can help you cope with anxiety and depression more effectively. But as you take care of your mental and emotional wellbeing, be sure not to neglect the importance of physical self-care also.

Daily Self-Care Checklist

The following is a simple yet powerful daily self-care checklist that you can follow.

Shower & Groom

This one might sound really basic but sometimes just getting dressed can be a chore. Whether you are a highly motivated workaholic or feeling depressed taking a shower, brushing your teeth, and combing your hair will prepare you for the day ahead.

Get Active for 30 Minutes

Getting your body moving is just plain good for you. Being a couch potato or never leaving your work desk is draining to your mind and body. Make it a goal to get active for at least 30 minutes a day. Make it something you enjoy so you have fun while you’re doing it.

Get Enough Sleep

Our bodies need sleep. Tackling your day well-rested will ensure that you have the energy you need to excel through your day. Everyone’s body is different, so find out how much sleep you need to operate at optimum levels.

Drink Enough Water

Proper hydration is super important. Being dehydrated can cause really noticeable physical effects including tiredness, brain-fog, and achiness. Try to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water, which equals about 2 liters, or half a gallon. This is called the 8×8 rule and is very easy to remember.

Eat 3 Healthy Meals

Just like water your body needs nutritious food. Make it a goal to eat 3 healthy meals each day. Starting your day with a metabolism-boosting breakfast will help jumpstart your day. It is also a good idea to add in some healthy snacks.

Spend Time with a Friend

Spending time with a friend will help you cover a variety of great self-care activities. Time with friends allows you to laugh, talk, and express your feelings. This time will help you de-stress and relax.

Focus on a goal

Focusing on a goal will give you purpose and help you move forward in life. Here are some examples of wellness, finance, and family goals that are achievable and will help improve your life.

Challenge Negative Thoughts

Thinking negatively only holds you back from enjoying life. We all have negative thoughts. When they arrive challenge those negative thoughts with positive alternatives. Affirmations are an excellent way to challenge negative thoughts.

Spend Time Outside

Getting outside in the fresh air will make you feel better as your body absorbs the oxygen and sunshine. Both are important for your health and well-being. If the weather permits, try getting outside and going for a nice leisurely walk.

Do Something You Like

Doing something you like is a no brainer when it comes to self-care. Doing things that make you happy will boost your mood and contribute to your overall wellness.

Practice a Breathing Technique

Breathing techniques help to bring a sense of calmness. Deep breathing is one of the best ways to lower stress in the body. This is because when you breathe deeply, it sends a message to your brain to calm down and relax.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of purposely focusing your attention on the present moment—and accepting it without judgment. Practicing mindfulness can bring improvements in both physical and psychological symptoms as well as positive changes in health, attitudes, and behaviors.

Repeat an Affirmation

The way that you think plays a big part in how you live your life. Positive affirmations are a way to change the way you think and allows you to live a happier, healthier, and more fulfilled life.

Leave a comment and share some of your favorite self care activities.

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