Ultimate Self-Care Routine for Busy People: Your path to balance and wellbeing
"Discover the ultimate self-care routine tweaks tailored for busy individuals. Learn practical tips, strategies, and tools to move towards balance and wellbeing amidst a hectic schedule."
Start by Prioritising Yourself:
If you are anything like me, time just seems to be speeding up; evaporating at an ever-increasing rate… Finding time for self-care can often feel like the last thing on a never-ending to-do list, or something to feel guilty about when you ‘should’ be doing something else (actually, don’t get me started on the word ‘should’). With a well-structured self-care routine, you can prioritise your wellbeing without compromising your productivity or neglecting other important tasks or people in your life. In fact, looking after your wellbeing can significantly enhance your overall performance, productivity and happiness. As with any change, the key is to start small and stay consistent: one of my favourite sayings is
“You throw a bucket of water on a rock and all you get is a wet rock. You let a drop of water fall onto that rock every day over time and it creates a hole. Consistency trumps intensity.”
So, let's dive into some practical tips and strategies to help you create the ultimate self-care routine that fit seamlessly into your busy life!
1. Assess Your Self-Care Needs
Identify your self-care goals (start with only one or two): What do you want to achieve?
Evaluate your current lifestyle and routines: What is one thing you can tweak to enhance your wellbeing that would give you the biggest ROI?
2. Practical Morning Self-Care Ideas
Start the day right: fuel your body effectively for the day ahead- you may not be able to eat as soon as you wake, but plan ahead with some healthy breakfast options (like overnight jar oats or similar) once you are ready
Incorporating mindfulness and meditation- start small
Quick and effective morning exercises - try a 5 minute HIIT routine
3. Self-Care Practices for the Workplace
Desk-friendly stretches and exercises
Mindfulness breaks and breathing exercises
Creating a productive and positive workspace
4. Evening Self-Care Rituals
Create effective boundaries between work and home life
The role of nutrition in wellbeing- rainbow food, rainbow mood!
Relaxation techniques for better sleep- try a NSDR technique
5. Weekend Self-Care Ideas
Plan ahead- schedule in rejuvenating weekend activities
Digital detox and unplugging strategies, aim to be device free for an uninterrupted period each day- start by checking your screen-time- you might be shocked!
Physical activities and hobbies- try to get outdoors (weather permitting!) and do something you enjoy
6. Self-Care Tools and Resources
Invest in a smart watch and start tracking your sleep quality and duration
Try a meditation app like Headspace, Calm or Smiling Mind
Use a walk/run app like Map My Walk, Nike Run Club, or Strava to record your activity- measure what you treasure!
Remember:
Taking care of yourself doesn't have to be a daunting task, even with a busy schedule. By incorporating these practical self-care tips and strategies, you can create a routine that promotes balance, wellbeing, and productivity. Remember, self-care is an ongoing journey. So, start small, be consistent, and enjoy the positive impact it brings to your life!
To Your Legacy,