#365daysofselfcare
Half way there
Hello,
My name is Zahraa and I am Person Centred Therapist. When I was training to be a therapist, our tutors would remind us about the importance of 'self care’. I had not heard of the term ‘self care’ or even indulged in this notion prior to starting my training, it was all very new to me.
So when I found out about the ‘365 Days of Self Care’ challenge, originally started by Blurt Alerts on Twitter, I knew it was something I had to do and I am so glad I am doing this challenge because it has really benefited me personally as well as professionally.
I started the challenge on the 1st January 2018. Every day I tweet about what self-care activity has taken place that day. By using the hashtag #365DaysOfSelfCare, twitter users can follow my journey and I can also follow other peoples journeys.
It’s also been insightful to read what others do for self-care, we can share ideas, support each other and it’s a lovely, friendly community to be a part of.
So what is ‘Self Care’?
Blurt Alerts define ‘self care’ as “ the actions we undertake to look after ourselves, physically, emotionally and mentally. It incorporates the essential acts of care that we need to focus on, like eating well and getting enough sleep.”
For me, self-care has become a daily part of my life. Before starting the challenge, my self-care routine wasn’t something I made time for everyday. But now, I make sure that I make time. Even if it is just 15 minutes a day, I always make sure I have some “me time” or do something to help break up a busy day or lift my mood.
Some of my go to self-care activities are:
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Spending time outdoors
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Catching up on a show I’ve missed
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Writing
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Having an early night
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Having a lie in
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Eating healthy
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Exercising
I have noticed a big difference in my emotions/mood when I make time for self-care. By doing this challenge it has reminded me how important it is to take care of our overall wellbeing. I look forward to letting everyone know about my self care activity that I have done that day and the challenge acts as a daily reminder, so self-care is always on my mind.
I will admit, there have been days where I have been too busy and haven’t made time for self care that day, but I have been honest and shared this with others, because we all know sometimes life/challenges can get in the way.
I also feel it’s important to share that self care doesn’t have to cost money. There are so many activities we can do that are costless, such as taking a walk, visiting friends, reading a book, watching a film, decluttering and speaking to kindly to yourself.
If you would like to know more about the #365DaysOfSelfCare, take a look at the Blurt Alerts website: https://www.blurtitout.org/resource/self-care-info/
I hope you enjoyed reading about my experience of the #365DaysOfSelfCare challenge. I absolutely love being a part of it and would recommend it even if you don’t have social media. Just take time out for yourself on a daily basis and notice how much it can benefit your wellbeing.
