One effective method for practicing self-care is developing and sticking to a consistent routine. According to medical studies, routines can reduce stress levels and enhance restful sleep patterns among other benefits.

But how do you create and sustain such a routine? This article will outline how to establish a self-care routine tailored to meet your specific needs, while being straightforward and sustainable.

1. Make it a priority

Building self-care habits takes time and dedication; but sometimes life can get busy, making them a priority in your schedule is an effective way of keeping up with them and feeling more grounded, which allows you to show up better for yourself and others.

Once you know which self-care activities make you feel most nourished and fulfilled, identify which self-care activities bring joy – this could include physical activities such as getting enough rest or exercising or emotional/mental practices like meditation and journaling. Once you know which ones bring the greatest fulfillment, prioritize them in your schedule as non-negotiable tasks and do them regularly.

Media has often associated self-care with bubble baths and yoga, but there is much more than meets the eye when it comes to self-care. Even taking a short walk, eating healthy foods, or reading books can all provide emotional health benefits.

If you need help staying motivated, find an accountability person to hold you responsible for your routine. This could range from someone on social media or someone living nearby; either will work to support and push you toward sticking with it. They could also help set boundaries – for instance reminding you not to spend as much time with people who make you feel bad about yourself.

2. Schedule it

Becoming part of your routine requires setting aside time for self-care; making this happen should not be challenging! Consider scheduling time each day or week for meditation, walks or simply relaxing – such as setting aside an hour or so prior to bedtime for yourself.

Once you know which forms of self-care help you feel best (physical activities such as exercise or mediation, meditating, or receiving massage), think about how often to practice them. Also think about whether doing more of what fills up your emotional tank vs doing less of what drains it.

Once your goals are clear, the next step should be making them a reality. This could involve as simple as writing out your new schedule and posting it on your bathroom mirror or bedroom wall; or going further by creating a calendar of non-negotiable self-care times. Writing out your routine helps hold yourself accountable, increasing its likelihood of implementation – just because there is an appointment doesn’t mean it can’t change! Self-care doesn’t need to cost anything either – there are plenty of inexpensive ideas like spending quality time with loved ones or taking a break from social media!

3. Make it fun

Your mindset plays an integral part in whether or not you undertake certain activities. For instance, viewing certain chores as “must-dos” can leave you stressed out and resistant. Shifting your perspective to view these activities as opportunities for self-care can help get past this initial resistance and start reaping the rewards quickly.

Self-care can also be enjoyable by integrating it with recreational activities you already enjoy, like dancing to your favorite 90s hits, baking a cake just because, or playing board games with friends. Doing this allows your inner child to come out and have some fun!

Starting a self-care routine may seem intimidating at first, but the key is just getting started! Once momentum builds up and becomes easier to sustain and expand your routine. Setting goals for yourself each week or month ahead can help keep yourself accountable and track progress; such as setting a weekly exercise goal or starting a gratitude journal. Aim for small attainable goals to avoid burnout and maximize chances of success; family or friends can offer their support when necessary to keep you accountable or help push when things become challenging.

4. Keep it simple

Self-care doesn’t need to be difficult – when your routine remains simple, more likely will it become part of your everyday habits and stay with you over time.

Start by finding one or two activities you truly enjoy doing, whether they be physical or mental activities. When you find one that fits, think about why it gives you so much pleasure; that will provide motivation to stick with it even when life becomes busy or stressful.

Make sure that your self-care routine includes activities to address all aspects of your wellbeing. For instance, if your goal is stress relief, including mindful practices such as deep breathing or meditation can be effective; similarly if building resilience or emotional strength is what’s on the agenda for you then activities such as journaling or spending time with supportive people could prove invaluable.

Assume no fear when asking for support. An effective way to remain motivated is to establish a list of supporters that can encourage and hold you accountable – this might include friends or family who share similar activities, therapists, coaches or consultants.

Self-care routines can be an invaluable way to enhance emotional health and wellbeing, making it accessible for anyone. If you want more information on creating healthy and positive self-care rituals, reach out to BetterHelp today and we can discuss ways we can assist!