For your mental health's sake, self-care can be so important. Having a dedicated time per week to unwind and de-stress has never been so crucial.
With our lives being busier than ever before, many of us do not take time for ourselves, often putting our own health last. Here are some ways you can incorporate self-care practices into your Sunday.
What Is self-care?
In short, self-care means taking the time to do the things that make you live well and have a good headspace. According to Mental Health First aid:
Engaging in a self-care routine has been clinically proven to reduce or eliminate anxiety and depression, reduce stress, increase happiness, and more. It can help you adapt to changes, build strong relationships, and recover from setbacks.
Picture your perfect Sunday
What does it look like? Maybe it's getting coffee with a friend. Or perhaps a pyjama and movie day in bed?
Whatever your perfect Sunday is to you, Sundays are known as the day of rest. It's a day where mostly we don't have important work deadlines or pressing plans. This is what makes them great for self-care and a recharge!
Recharge the batteries
Sleep can have a huge impact on your mental health. Getting an early night on a Sunday can help you feel your best for the week ahead. Make sure you allow yourself adequate time to sleep- healthy adults need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night. Limiting your screen time before bed will allow you to feel well-rested and re-charged.
Fuel your body.
Spending some time cooking your favourite meal can be a great form of self-care. Preparing and cooking a nutritious, healthy meal can be therapeutic and rewarding. Whether it be your favourite dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, dedicating time to eat well can be a thing to look forward to. Click here for some healthy recipe ideas that taste delicious!
Do something you love
Looking forward to doing something you love is the best feeling. This may be spending quiet time alone, perhaps reading a book, or more social like getting brunch with a friend. Research shows that people with hobbies are less likely to suffer with depression, low mood and stress. Having something you can enjoy doing is so beneficial for boosting your mood.
Declutter
A tidy space is great for mental health. If you are surrounded by a cluttered or untidy space, this can result in consistent low-level stress which plays its part on the brain. Cleaning your home allows the brain to focus on items and tasks one at a time. As well, cleaning requires us to slow down, which can provide calming effects on the brain.
Do you ever love the sense of satisfaction you get after being productive? This is another great benefit cleaning has on the mind, as you will go to bed satisfied that you have prepared for the week ahead.
Get your body moving
It is a proven fact that physical activity releases endorphins that make you feel happy. And no, don't worry, you do not have to be a regular gym-goer to do this! It can be as simple as going for a walk in nature and getting some fresh air, or going to a pilates class.
Don't want to leave the house? There are many tutorials on YouTube to get your body moving, such as Yoga or HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) that you can have a go at in front of the TV. If you don't already, have a go at getting your body moving each Sunday for that feel-good factor.
Pamper yourself
Everyone loves the feeling after a spa day, right? Why not replicate that yourself at home?! Caring for your body and skin can make you feel great. Your at-home DIY treatments may include running a bath, applying a facial and a hair mask, painting your nails and much more! These can relax you and make you feel fresh and beautiful to start your week.
Take time for you
Whether you incorporate just one or all of these into your Sunday routine, it is important to ensure you look after yourself, both mentally and physically. Our lives move so quickly, so it's crucial to unwind and enjoy doing the things we love. Be selfish - and take time for yourself!