January – the month after the festivities end. The decorations have come down, the lights that line the houses and roads are no longer sparkling, and the weather often turns colder. In the UK, we’ve passed the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, and the days are starting to draw out again, but it may not yet feel like it. For some, it’s a lovely month of the year. It can give us ‘permission’ to wrap up against the cold, to hibernate away, to be cosy; to rest and recharge ready for the Spring. But for others, it is a challenging time. It can feel long, dark, and bring challenges. Whatever our approach to January, it’s important that we take the time to look after ourselves. To nurture ourselves, to provide whatever it is that we need, to love and care for ourselves.
January is recognised as being self-care month, or self-love month, with its purpose being to highlight the importance of prioritising and meeting our own needs; of appreciating ourselves and investing time in building our feelings of self-worth and celebrating all that we are, whilst protecting it too.
Life can be busy. It can be hectic and sometimes feel like it is spiralling beyond our control, or that we are running at 100mph with the finish line not yet in sight. Unforeseen events can derail intentions and bring a storm to disrupt the calm waters. That is why it’s important to pause, take a moment, and practise self-care. It’s the ultimate form of self-love.
It may be 10 seconds, it may be 10 minutes, it may be 10 days; each moment is precious and can serve to refresh, recharge, and nourish.
It is recognising that you are important, that you matter.
It is practising giving yourself the love and time that you deserve.
It is often giving to ourselves, what we give to others.
Through self-care, we give ourselves the time to pause and recharge. We give ourselves the moments to pause and reflect, to perhaps gain clarity or sight of a way forward when we feel uncertain or stuck. It can also provide us with space to grow and develop, as well as to keep in touch with who we are and how we want to be; to practice self-love for ourselves.
So how can we practice self-care and self-love?
This will be different for everyone, unique to each of us, but here are some ideas:
o Take breaks – this might be taking breaks from work or the to-do list during the day. It might be long or short. But in that moment, take the moment to pause. Perhaps practice some breathing, or spend a moment in nature, read a chapter of a book or listen to a song. Whatever give you a break both physically and mentally.
o Spend time with loved ones
o Exercise – this might be a session at the gym, doing a boxing class, some yoga, or going for a run or a walk. It might also be dancing around the kitchen to your favourite tunes!
o Eat well and hydrate ourselves
o Sleep or rest
o Do an activity that you enjoy
o Journal– Journaling can allow us to connect with what we are thinking or feeling, to process and understand, as well as contribute to self-growth, awareness and development. It can reduce the weight of the things that we may be holding inside, thereby improving our wellbeing.
o Practice meditation or breath-work – this can calm our nervous system and bring stillness to what can be a busy life.
o Be kind to ourselves!