What is self-care? Self-care is any activity that we do deliberately in order to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical health and wellbeing. And, although it is a simple concept in theory, it is something we all seem to effortlessly overlook…
Often ignored but entirely necessary, the ritual of self-care is important in order for us to take care of ourselves – allowing us to switch off, de-stress, do the things we love, and take a step back from our busy lives and hectic schedules. Ultimately, it’s putting ourselves first!
Did you know, the benefits of self-care are INVALUABLE in improving our general wellbeing?
Self-care can better our immunity to certain illnesses, increase positive thinking and make us less susceptible to stress, anxiety and other emotional health issues. Taking time out to care for ourselves helps remind us and others that our needs are important, too.
So, are you ready to make yourself a priority and make self-care part of your daily routine?
Well, to help us with just that, our incredibly talented Customer Services Assistant, Becky, has written a poem for us to share with our Policyholders, People and Community…
Here are some top tips on how we can all learn take care of ourselves 🧡
“What is self-care? And what does it mean to me?
It looks different to everybody and realising this is key.
It can be anything from meditation to having a moment to take five,
Either way, it’s not selfish or self-indulgent, its what we need to survive.
Nobody could’ve predicted the trials this year has already thrown,
Wanting to hug your family but only being able to talk to them on the phone.
Some have had toddlers hanging from their ear and giving them sass,
Trying to say you love them greatly but only being able to admit they’re a pain in the… bum.
Whatever the hardships, it’s important we take the time to put ourselves first,
Even though it feels tasking, we must learn to love ourselves at our worst.
Set manageable targets, be happy to step away from the screen,
Try writing to do lists or starting a new routine.
Buy yourself flowers, go on a walk, pick up a pen and write,
Meditate, find some exciting recipes, or read a book at night.
Visit a local wonder, practice your faith, sing your favourite song,
Do a puzzle, watch nostalgic programmes, dance around the kitchen all night long.
Whatever makes your mind and soul happy will help your physical too,
As important as sleep, food and water, self-care is something we all must do.
Please do not feel that you’ll be misjudged for looking after yourself,
You should know by now that your colleagues care about your mental health.
So when times get challenging and you need to take a step away,
Do something you enjoy, clear your mind, brighten your own day.”
Wow – thanks Becky, we couldn’t have said it better ourselves! A lovely poem to remind us all about the importance of self-care, taking time out to relax, do what we love and most important, prioritise our health and wellbeing 😊🧡
Let us know what you do to practice self-care and look after your wellbeing, by tweeting us @MyPaycare, we’d love to hear your stories!