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Self-Care Tips

Tuesday, May 19  •  

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Eating disorders are often associated with behaviors such as perfectionism that don’t leave a lot of room for self-care and forgiveness for yourself. Because of this, we’re sharing some tips for those who struggle to show themselves love and practice self-care. 

Keep in mind that self-care will look different for each person. Find something that works for you and make sure to take time each day to practice self-care. Below are a variety of ideas for self-care that may benefit your physical and mental health:

  • Practice art therapy. Sit down to draw, paint, or color. Art has the potential to be genuinely therapeutic. Art therapy has been proven to improve focus and ease tension. Since creativity can take many forms, art therapy is therapeutic because there is no right or wrong way to create. Be mindful of this as you’re practicing art therapy and remove expectations and perfectionist tendencies throughout this process. 
  • Reconnect with nature. While many events are canceled due to COVID-19, that doesn’t mean you can’t spend time outdoors. Find a new hike to explore in your area or pack a lunch and picnic outside. Spending time outside can be healing and help you find your peace during difficult times.
  • Practice a social media/news detox. This will look different for each person. Pay attention to what stresses you out. Is it the constant social media updates? Is it negative and pervasive news stories? Take time away from whatever is stressing you out. 
  • Nourish your mind and body. Take a look at what you’re feeding yourself and recommit to fueling your body with healthy foods. Nourish your mind by practicing meditation. There are many methods of meditation, practice what helps you feel your best. 
  • Reach out to someone that loves you. Make an effort each day to reach out to a loved one and interact with them. Just because you need to practice social distancing during this time, doesn’t mean you have to be socially distant. Technology provides a unique opportunity to stay in touch with your loved ones while ensuring illness is not spread. Facetime your friend or send a loved one a text. 
  • Practice saying the word “no”. Having healthy boundaries is a powerful way to practice self-care. 
  • Pay attention to what has worked for you in the past. Everyone has some idea of what helps them the most in difficult times. Does taking a quick nap help you feel refreshed and taken care of? Does taking a long bath and reading help you feel taken care of? Perform an individual check of what self-care looks like for you and incorporate something into each day.

During difficult and uncertain times, it’s so important to prioritize your physical and mental health. Self-care is not selfish, it allows you to be more present in your relationships and serve others because you are taken care of. 

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