7 Self-Care Techniques to Rest and Recharge
Self-care reduces or eliminates anxiety and depression, reduces stress, improves concentration, minimizes frustration and anger, increases happiness, improves energy, and more.
Self-care has grown into a whole industry that promotes fancy face masks, cozy clothes, snacks, and courses on how to relax.
I struggle with self-care. I don’t want a complicated routine or to spend lots of money. Instead, I need a few easy and inexpensive ways that help me relax and recharge, especially when I feel myself approaching burnout.
Everyone has heard the phrase you can’t pour from an empty cup. And I have learned more and more in the past few years about how important that truly is and how valuable self-care is to be your most productive, efficient, and effective self.
So I have seven tips I want to share with you to help you find those small moments to recharge so that you can be focused at work, more creative, and happier.
Get outside.
I’m sure you’ve heard this before; it’s not groundbreaking, but being away from your computer screen for a few minutes daily is essential. So instead, find something fun to listen to or hear the sounds around you.
It’s incredible how there is always time for that walk – 10 minutes can still change the mood for your whole day. A walk is restorative and energizing, and I promise you will come back to your computer more creative and ready to focus.
You don’t need to go for a walk either; lay outside in your backyard, sit on the front steps or on the roof of your apartment building. The fresh air and a new scene are all you need.
2. Get away from your screen.
The next tip is to put your phone in another room and/or get away from the computer screen. I know this is hard for some people, and you may use your phone to recharge or take a break.
But it’s counterproductive. It’s easy to get sucked into apps like Instagram or TikTok for longer than you intended to be on the app. The algorithms keep you distracted, sucked in, and continue to look for things that will make you feel good.
So, take a screen break away from your computer and phone. It’s good for your eyes, your body, and your mind. Maybe you take the break to grab a book or just lay still and close your eyes for a little bit.
3. Have a dance party.
I know this is silly, but sometimes you need to jam out. Find music that matches the mood you want to be in and move your body, especially if you’ve been sitting at a desk all day.
If you work from home or work in an office - close the door, put on some music, dance it out, and get back to your desk recharged with a smile on your face.
4. Call a friend.
Call a friend that’s going to be fun and uplifting! It’s OK to vent, but be wary of calling a friend that will keep you stuck in that negative space. When calling a friend for self-care, you need to talk to someone who will help you refill your cup through positivity and support.
Today we rely so much on texting, but it’s not the same as hearing a voice and having that connection. We can also worry that we’ll interrupt if we call without texting first – call! Then, they’ll let you know if they can’t answer or talk! But think what a lovely surprise it would be to get a random call from a friend.
Pro tip – talk while you’re walking outside and get double the self-care!
5. Brainstorm somewhere new
This tip is perfect if you’re feeling stuck or uninspired. Take a walk outside or to a new coffee shop with a notebook. Being in a new place can spark new ideas, and pen/paper allows for more free-flowing thoughts and brainstorming.
Something about being somewhere new can reframe things and let your mind relax from the day-to-day things you must do. It allows you to be open to those opportunities that may present themselves.
6. Make a delicious meal.
Making a nice meal or a fancy snack is a great act of self-care. There’s something cathartic about cooking or preparing food and putting some extra love into that meal. Then enjoy your meal while doing something you enjoy, watching your favorite show, reading a good book, outside on a patio, or talking to/with a good friend.
7. Tidy your space
My last tip is to tidy up a space. I don’t mean clean the whole house or do any deep cleaning but straighten up your workspace or your bedroom (get the clothes off the chair – I know they’re there!). Showing your room some love can be a form of self-care and bring joy to your area. After everything is tidied, light a lovely candle and get back to work.
I hope these tips show that self-care doesn’t have to be expensive, time-consuming, or require anything extra.
What tip resonates most with you?
