This past week, my body finally caught up with the speed of my mind and I became ill. It isn’t something I would usually write a blog post about, but self care and noticing signs in ourselves is hugely important to ensure we continue to function as we should and remain as healthy as possible.
I have taken so much on over the summer during lockdown, that I think I began to forget that I also need time off so that mentally and physically I can rest and recuperate before year 2. Yes, I wanted to take on these opportunities, but I think I sometimes forget how many hours there are in the day, and also that my life does not need to revolve around work, studying and being the best at everything. I am human after all, and as long as I am progressing, being the best version of myself, and remaining kind then ultimately is that not all that matters? I know that there is more to life that this, and I should not sit here preaching that these are the only things that are important. Goodness knows I will continue to take on more opportunities that come my way and end up overworked again. But I am learning, and I am realising that I need to take more time to look after myself between these opportunities and adventures that I agree to!
I took some time while I was ill this week, to really relax and indulge in self care. I want to share some of things I did, and some of the things I will continue (and start) to incorporate into my daily life-
- Having a PJ day (or week as was the case) and not feeling guilty for it.
- Putting out of office on my emails when I am not well and sticking to it.
- Switching off from social media for a few days.
- Sleeping when my body and mind say they need it.
- Binge watching TV shows that make me forget about everything else going on in my life and the world around me.
- Talking to friends about my life, their life and generally catching each other up.
- Eating a balanced diet, including that chocolate ice cream in the freezer.
- Saying ‘no’ to people and not thinking I am in the wrong for doing so.
There is more than can be said, and the way we each practice self care is different, but the important thing is that we DO practice self care and we do so regularly.
It isn’t fine to take one day off every few months. Your mind and body need more rest that that. You need to regularly be remembering to look after yourself by switching off, saying no and slowing down.
Let’s practice what we all preach, and take some time this September to look after number 1 (YOU).
Holly xx
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