No matter if the current pandemic, your job, or other factors have you on edge, stress can present itself in many different ways. It‚s important that you take note of what is stressing you out, and find ways to combat it with healthy self-care solutions. If you‚re unsure of where to begin, here are ways you can practice self-care even during your most stressful times:
Create Structure and a Schedule
In times of stress, you may feel as though your life is in complete disorder. While this may be true, there are ways you can care and regulate yourself to feel calmer. For instance, if you have a routine you follow each morning and evening, stick to it. Creating a sense of normalcy amidst chaos can allow you to feel more relaxed, and that you have control.
If you don't have an established daily routine, consider crafting one for yourself, as this can provide you with stability each day. To
create the perfect routine for you, begin by structuring out what you need, and want to get completed. Allow yourself some flexibility to fit in last-minute tasks, or even a break, and test out your routine for at least 30 days to see if it fits your lifestyle. Luckily, if it doesn‚t, you have the power to switch it up until it‚s just what you need!
Listen to your body
In times of stress, your body can send you clear signs that you‚re in need of some TLC. It‚s important that you become in tune with your body so that you‚re able to recognize these signs and take action. For example, for women, you may notice changes in your menstrual cycle. Whether it be a change in flow or inconsistent spotting, stress can make your period unpredictable.
With this in mind, tampons and pads may not make the most sense or be the most comfortable options. Products such as a menstrual cup can not only provide you with a more comfortable experience, as there are
some available in various sizes, but also peace of mind during physical changes where you may feel unsure. Making this switch can ensure that you're using a high-quality product, that helps you in every way possible‚a perfect way to practice self-care!
Your body can also send you signs through your sleep habits. Have you ever woken from a full night‚s rest only to feel as though you didn't sleep at all? Or, on the contrary, you struggle with falling and staying asleep? This can be your body‚s way of showing you that you need to slow down in your daily life. Easy
ways to relax before bed to ensure a quality night of rest are limiting your access to technology, taking a hot bath or shower, and drinking some
soothing chamomile tea.
Maintain Positive Connections
A solid support system in your life can make or break stressful situations. Finding and maintaining positive connections will help to provide you with guidance and relief that is necessary for self-love and care. Additionally, there are
many health benefits that healthy and loving relationships can provide you.
Thankfully, there are plenty of ways you can maintain your connections no matter how near or far your peers are. Be sure to use technology to stay psychologically close through means of voice calls, texts, social media, and video calls. By taking time out of your day to reconnect with your loved ones, you will feel refreshed and reconnected to those most important to you.
Treat Yourself
This common phrase is the epitome of self-care. Under times of stress, you may be thinking about everything and anything except yourself, which makes this tip crucial. You and your wellbeing should always be your main priority. Finding ways to put yourself first can be simple. Tasks such as a relaxing bubble bath, curling up with your favorite book, or even a small shopping trip can be the perfect way to treat yourself. If you‚re in need of ideas for other ways to give yourself some extra TLC, check out this list
here.
No matter if you try one or all of these tips, there is no right or wrong when it comes to self-care. Ultimately, it comes in many different forms, and is exactly what you make of it!
