When going through trauma healing, it is important to practice self-care. Self-care involves doing things that prioritise your health and wellbeing. You can engage in both physical self-care and emotional self-care.
Self-care can be really challenging for some people who have learned to prioritise other people’s wellbeing over their own. Self-care takes practice and persistence. You may feel initial guilt or discomfort to start with. These feelings will reduce with practice.
How to Self-Care
There are lots of different things you can do to self-care. It is important to identify the effective strategies that work for you. Here are some ideas for you to try.
Self-Compassion
- Guided exercises for increasing self-compassion
- Using creams and lotions
- Burning scented oils
- Wearing items of clothing or accessories which help you to feel good about yourself
- Speaking kindly to yourself
Get Moving
What types of exercise do you enjoy?
- Walking or running
- Yoga or stretching
- Gym
- Housework
- Gardening
- Boxing
- Swimming
- Social sport
Healthy Eating
- Ensuring you are eating regular meals
- Enjoying nutritious foods
- Cooking
- Indulging in treats
Sleep & Rest
- Going to bed early
- Having a good sleep routine
- Taking time out to rest
Mindfulness & Meditation
- Focus on your breath
- Listen to some guided meditation
- Engage in a daily activity mindfully e.g., brushing your teeth
Nature
- Go outside
- Go to the beach/ forest/ country/ river
- Take a mindful walk
- Bird watching
Creativity
- Colouring
- Knitting or crocheting
- Drawing or painting
- Home decorating or furniture restoration
- Creating a vision board (collage or Pinterest)
Distraction
- Sudoku
- Crosswords
- Wordle
- Watching TV or a movie
Social Support
- Spending time with supportive friends or family
- Meeting new people through shared interests e.g., gym, women’s group
Reading & Writing
- Journalling
- Reading a book
- Visiting your local library
Hobbies
- Photography
- Writing
- Gardening
- Making music
