Take care of yourself in 2023

So many people are setting goals in January each year and I am sure that 2023 is no exception. My challenge to you is to prioritise yourself in 2023 by doing at least one thing for the benefit of your well-being.

The idea of making time for yourself and your well-being can be challenging. You might feel like you do not have enough time, or that it is selfish to make time for yourself.

Some people (in particular women) feel guilty about taking time for themselves. They see themselves as the ones who should be taking care of everyone else, and their own needs often fall by the wayside. However, taking care of yourself is something that you should never feel guilty about. The truth is that you cannot pour from an empty cup – the more you take care of yourself, the more you have to give to others and the less likely it is that you will burn out. It also models healthy behaviours for the ones you love.

How do you take care of yourself?

It does not mean to disregard others and sitting around watching TV all the time. Nor does it mean excessive self-reflection and journaling. It is all about finding a balance and listening to your inner voice and your body. It will tell you what you need – pause and listen.

Here are some ideas:

1. Connect with nature

For centuries the healing powers of nature was used to calm the spirit and replenish the soul. Take a few minutes to listen to the wind in the trees, or the sea, or the birds; it will sooth and calm your mind. Perhaps you can have your lunch outside in nature as opposed to at your desk.

2. Solitude

Give yourself the gift of some alone time. Take a bath or read a book before bed, go for a walk in the morning or find yourself in the garden after a long day. It is an opportunity to breathe and allowing yourself to recharge. Spending time along gives your mind a chance to reboot, it improves concentration and can even help you to find your own voice.

You don’t have to take hours; only 15 minutes a day will already make you feel as good as new the whole year round. Time is precious and therefore you need to spend some of that time on you – you are precious!

3. Exercise

Perhaps 2023 is the year to get your heartbeat up. Start slow, perhaps only 10 or 15 minutes. You will be surprised how quickly you will become addicted to the endorphins and feel-good feelings.

4. Be present in the moment

When last have you applied all your senses to the present moment? When you have your lunch, make a point of seeing, hearing, feeling, smelling and tasting your meal. You can also apply your senses when you are in nature (perhaps not the gustatory!) or exercise.

5. Journaling

Journaling in varying forms can be a great practice for self-identification and self-care. Through regular journaling you can discover your inner voice that may otherwise go unheard in your day-to-day live.

6. Learn to say no

When something is spilling over your boundaries, say no. If you find it hard to say no, perhaps do not commit and say that you will come back to the person. Then you can formulate your no-response.

You cannot expect others to respect your boundaries, if you do not respect your boundaries.

In 2023, give yourself a gift that will keep on giving… the gift of self-care.

I wish you only the very best wishes for 2023!