Self-Care

In daily life we have to stay busy with countless tasks, and setting aside time for ourselves can feel almost impossible. But giving yourself time and doing something you enjoy each day is truly essential. It is important to build the habit of doing small self-care activities in the gaps of a busy life, because these keep us mentally and physically well and productive. Through self-care, our energy and cheerfulness grow, and the chance of becoming mentally exhausted or depressed decreases.

When it comes to self-care, we can remember six areas. Only by giving equal importance to all six can we take complete care of ourselves.

1. Physical: We often ignore even a headache or long-standing knee pain, thinking "it will get better" or "these things happen a little with age." But taking care of your body is part of overall self-care. So self-care must include caring for your body.

2. Mental: If you struggle to handle the pressures of work and family, you should certainly consult a mental health professional. You can also care for your mind by doing things you enjoy, writing down your positive qualities, and taking part in support groups.

3. Emotional: We are usually in the habit of criticising ourselves constantly. To care for your emotions, you must first speak to yourself affirmatively — instead of harsh self-criticism, pay attention to your good sides. You might watch a comedy film or give yourself a small gift.

4. Personal: Deciding what you want in life and setting your goals, drinking enough water daily, and ensuring 8 hours of sleep are all part of self-care. Creating a safe environment around you, learning to say "no" when necessary, and asking others for help when needed are also self-care. Even spending a day doing nothing but resting is included.

5. Professional: Taking your lunch break properly, finishing office work at the office and not bringing it home, going on holiday from time to time, and taking sick leave when needed — setting these boundaries is an important part of self-care.

6. Spiritual: You can also care for yourself by observing your religious practices, meditating, or gaining inner peace by forgiving others.

By giving equal importance to the ways above, we can take complete care of ourselves.