Self-care goes beyond the occasional mani-pedi or massage. While these are great examples of taking time for yourself, in order to reap the substantial benefits of self-care, you must make a consistent commitment and expand your routine of caring for yourself to nourish all levels of your being.

First, let’s define what self-care means. Self-care is an activity that nurtures and refuels you at a deep level.

• Physical body
• Emotional and mental state
• Spiritual beliefs
• Relationship to self
• Relationship to others
• Work

These areas offer unique spaces for care and attention.

Physical Body

• Ample quality sleep
• Checkups
• Healthy diet
• Regular exercise
• Massage
• Acupuncture
• Baths
• Daily outdoor time

Emotional and Mental State

• Laughter
• Crying
• Hobbies
• Loving
• Freewriting
• Reading
• Morning and/or evening routines
• Budgeting
• Traveling

Spiritual Beliefs

• Nature walks
• Meditation and prayer
• Religious practices
• Yoga
• Forgiveness
• Gratitude
• Creating time to just be

Relationship to Self

• Daily journal
• Engaging the senses
• Cooking
• Vision boards
• Positive self-talk
• Goal setting
• Alone time
• Celebrating your successes
• Treating yourself to what's important to you

Relationship to Others

• Dating
• Joining a club or group
• Time with friends
• Time with children
• ​Family visits
• Vacationing
• Conversations
• Getting involved in a cause
• Communicating your wants & needs

Work

• Boundary setting
• Goal setting
• Supporting & acknowledging yourself & others
• Taking time off
• Learning new skills
• Self-advocating

In the realm of self-care, the options are limitless. The key is to identify which areas of your life need attention and engage in activities that support you on a regular basis. You may find that what works for you changes over time. Perhaps you recognize a need for connections at some point, so your daily exercise goes from a solo run to a walk with a friend.

Ask yourself:

Which areas of your life would you like to focus some specific attention?