If there is anything obvious that this pandemic is trying to teach us, it is the importance of self-care. Here are seven surefire ways on how you can beat the stress and live a healthier, more me-centered life.
DECIDE: Decide to take the better path in all the micro and macro decisions life is asking you to make. Decide to be grateful, make do with what you have, maximize your resources, see that what you have is enough, and realize that you have all you need to not only survive but to thrive. Say no to negativity, fake news, unnecessary burden, and say yes to all that brings out the best in you.
DISPOSE: Declutter your living space; throw away what you don’t need. Make a way for clean spaces. More importantly, rid yourself of unhelpful thought patterns.
DELEGATE: This is challenging but doable. Lower your standards. Don’t expect other people to perform in a way that you like. Do realize that other people are not you, and be appreciative for helping you out with the load. You no longer have to carry it alone. Oftentimes, they mean well and they sincerely want to help out. Open your mind and heart to them.
DEFER: If you can’t do it now, then don’t. Do recognize that you have those “Today-I-really-can’t- moments.” Be at peace with that. Rest if you must, and tomorrow, try again.
DRAW: You can take this in the literal sense as a sense of creativity is welcome nowadays. But this is more than just taking your coloring materials out. Draw the line and set boundaries. Always save space for yourself, no matter how small. Set time limits for work, play, and rest. Try to give time for all these needed aspects and respect these timelines. Don’t go overboard with work, drawing the line is essential.
DETOX: Be watchful of the food you eat. Hydrate, don’t shy away from healthy fluids. Lessen alcohol. Detox isn’t only applicable to the literal sense. Set screen time for yourself. Don’t spend the whole day scrolling. It will harm both your eyesight and mental well-being. Be kind to your body and mind.
DO: Do something for yourself and for your well-being. Caring for yourself is the first step before you are able to care for others.
Apply these seven steps and you’ll surely not fall short of your daily requirement of Vitamin D. Make yourself a priority. We can surely learn a thing or two from the classic flight attendant line, “Put your oxygen mask first” because it’s true. You won’t be able to give what you don’t have. Cliché, but it’s certainly real. – PAU DE VERA