What is self-care?

self-care 
/sɛlfˈkɛː/
noun 

noun: self-care; noun: selfcare

the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's own health

the practice of taking an active role in protecting one's own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress.

Self-care can be whatever you want (or need) it to be. It can be a simple pamper session, or formal therapy, eating clean, or a cheeky cocktail and a natter with your gal pals. It encompasses both physical and mental health, and I've found it to be so important in my battle with chronic migraine.

I've struggled with conventional treatments. I've had painkillers that simply don't touch the pain, preventatives that have given me insomnia, others that have made me do nothing but sleep. I've lost weight, I've gained weight. Sometimes a migraine and all of it's symptoms seem more bearable than the side-effects medication can bring.

I've therefore had to look to alternative methods to deal with my symptoms. Self-care is what helps me to not just survive, but to thrive. I'll try and post more in-depth about individual self-care methods in future posts, but here are a few simple things to try:

• Drink. More. Water. A simple task we're all guilty of neglecting at times.

• Listen to music. Wallow with sad songs, or dance around the living room to One Direction.

• Make time for yourself. Burn-out isn't good for anyone.

• Take a bath. Sparkly bath bombs, essential oils, bubble face-masks... and relax.

• Know your limits. There's no shame in saying no.

• Treat Yo Self. "It's the best day of the year!"

• Get out. (If you can). Fresh air and sunshine really are great healers. 

• Keep a gratitude journal. Note down each days positives and look back on your achievements. 

• Switch off. Sometimes being online can be a hindrance. Take a breather.  

• Ask for help. Talk to a friend, a relative, your boss, a doctor, or an anonymous help-line- whoever you feel comfortable with. Please never suffer in silence.

Here are some great resources for further reading on the subject: mind, blurt and self care forum. Self-care is accessible to everyone, and small steps can lead to big changes.  

What do you do to take care of yourself?

Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash