Self-Care

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 Create your own mindfulness music

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