Self-care is the practice of actively engaging in activities that promote and maintain physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Here are some ideas for creating a personalized healthy and enjoyable lifestyle.
A Suggested Self-Care Plan:
● Engage in regular physical activity (e.g., walking, running, swimming, dancing)
● Get enough sleep (7-9 hours per night)
● Engage in hobbies and activities that bring joy (e.g., reading, music, art)
● Spend time in nature (e.g., go for a walk, hike)
● Disconnect from technology regularly
● Practice self-compassion and acceptance
● Engage in activities that promote relaxation such as practicing mindfulness meditation with slow calm deep breathing (e.g., taking a bath, reading, cuddling with a pet)
Mind-Body-Spirit: In-Person Local Resources
Local Counseling & Support Groups:
● The Women's Initiative: https://www.thewomensinitiative.org/all-programs
● On Our Own: https://www.onourowncville.org/
Local Meditation Organizations:
● Insight Meditation Community/ IMCC https://www.imeditation.org/
● Ligmincha International @ Serenity Ridge Retreat Center https://ligmincha.org/centers-usa-serenityridge/
Local Nature Connection Community:
Parks & Recreation Programs
● Albemarle County https://www.albemarle.org/government/parks-recreation
● City of Charlottesville https://www.charlottesville.gov/1742/Parks-Recreation
● Riverview Park's Rock Circle offers free community nature wellness programs that are posted on this Charlottesville city park's Adopt-A-Spot kiosk at the end of Chesapeake ST. Also for more information, email linda@naturewellnessprograms.com
Free Online Local Resources
Meditation Instruction:
The 3 Doors Free Guided Meditation https://the3doors.org/resources/#guidedmeditations
Emotional Wellness:
National Institutes of Health: Emotional Wellness Toolkit https://www.nih.gov/health-information/emotional-wellness-toolkit
More Related Self-Care Information for Activists:
Article: Self-care in the Movement
https://www.learningforjustice.org/magazine/spring-2023/selfcare-in-the-movement
Article: The Relevance of Mindfulness in a time of Upheaval https://sendfox.com/orenjaysofer/c/2r958n/the-relevance-of-mindfulness-in-a-time-of-upheaval?utm_sourc e=sendfox&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=the-relevance-of-mindfulness-in-a-time-of-upheaval
Additional Tips:
● Assess your needs: Consider what areas of your life need the most attention.
● Make it enjoyable: Choose self-care activities that you genuinely enjoy.
● Be consistent: Make self-care a regular part of your routine.
● Seek professional help if needed: If you're struggling with significant mental health issues, consider seeking professional support from a therapist or counselor.