I often notice at this point in January people have either gotten into the full swing of their new year’s resolutions or they are starting to falter.
People usually feel that they are becoming the new improved, better version of themselves or have fallen off the wagon. Let me tell you something, you do not need a new you, you need the same you.
The same you that got you through one of the toughest years on the planet for most, the same you that supported you and got you to this point in your life, the same you that will be there for you and get you through.
Don’t feel like you need to change into a new person, picking apart your core, remember this is the person who got you to where you are today.
Celebrate you and be kind to yourself. This is the key to your successful goal setting and feeling a sense of achievement in 2021 and beyond. Celebrate each other’s “you” as we are all our own perfectly flawed versions.
So, take time to share a coffee, a joke, a kind word, a shoulder to lean on, a screen to zoom to, whatever it may be, stay connected. As we move forward into what looks like another year of remote connectivity it is more important than ever to have some self-care strategies in place alongside care and empathy for each other.
This new world has affected every person differently so never assume to know how someone else is doing, check-in and show up, that’s the best you can do.
6 Self-care tips for 2021
Let me share some tips on how you can set some good self-care structures in place and look after your mind and body.
1. Get enough sleep
Sleep is an essential part of self-care. Not getting enough sleep can offset your entire day. One of the key contributing factors to not getting enough sleep is stress. Take time to unwind and destress before bedtime. Drink some soothing hot tea, meditate in a quiet space, turn off all screens, put on some relaxing music, whatever it is, and make time for bedtime.
2. Watch what you eat
Your gut health plays an important role in your wellbeing. Taking the right approach to eating and balancing your food intake can dramatically improve your gut health and feelings of vitality. Some of the best self-care foods include fatty fish, blueberries, nuts, green leafy veggies, and brassicas, like broccoli.
3. Exercise right
We all know that exercise is good for you, but doing something you enjoy is the key to maintaining a healthy routine and reaping the true benefits. Find a workout routine that suits your lifestyle and current conditions. Adapt and change this as your body get healthier. Healthy exercise combats anxiety, stress, not to mention shedding those extra kilos.
4. Let the light in
Take time to go outside and get some fresh air. Studies show spending time outdoors, surrounded by nature and fresh air, increases energy by 90%! So if you’re feeling tired or stressed get outside – even if it is raining. Combined with meditation and mindfulness this can drastically reduce stress levels.
5. Say No
Learn to say no to others and yes to your self-care. You may sometimes feel obliged to say yes but if you’re already stressed or overworked, saying yes to loved ones or co-workers can lead to burnout, anxiety, and irritability. Saying no now may make it so you can say yes later.
6. Treat yourself
Finally, don’t forget the finer things too. Treat yourself to that perfect face mask, a home-cooked meal, a tipple of your choice, that last Rolo. Whatever it is, celebrate the moment and give kindness to yourself.
So, make time to celebrate and encourage the same you that will get you through. Stay strong all.
BeProud@Cpl
The aim of BeProud is to build an inclusive and safe network that empowers self-belief and confidence, where everyone can bring their whole selves to work.
We do this through confidential personal and professional support, collaborating and developing strong relationships with other LGBTQ+ networks, and actively driving conversations on crucial LGBTQ issues internally and on our digital platforms. For more information on BeProud visit our Diversity and Inclusion section.