What constitutes a complete self care routine?
Written by
Tran Quang
Reviewed by
Prof. Graham Pierce, Ph.D.A self-care routine covers the whole self, both physically, mentally, and emotionally. It encompasses sleep, nutrition, movement, and emotional practices. Perfection is not as important as consistent practice. Start small with manageable habits. This builds the foundation that prevents burnout and otherwise lessens our resilience.
Physical Foundation
- Prioritize 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly
- Meet hydration targets with a marked water bottle
- Incorporate 150 minutes of movement weekly
- Eat balanced meals with proteins and vegetables
Mental Reset Practices
- Set digital boundaries for screen-free time
- Practice daily mindfulness or breathing exercises
- Schedule regular breaks during work hours
- Maintain a gratitude journal for perspective
Your self-care routine requires personalization. Track your energy patterns for a week. Notice when you feel worn out or when you feel fresh. I found my energy dipped in the afternoon. Now, I plan walks then. Knowing that allows you to create effective routines.
Consistency is greater than intensity. Micro-habits that take no longer than five minutes create lasting change. Stretch during commercials. Drink water before every meal. I keep my water bottle in view. Small actions like these create sustainable momentum for habits without overwhelming feelings.
Review and revise plans quarterly. The demands of life require flexibility. Each stage of parenthood and the demands of work sometimes change needs. Therefore, I find it best to change routines every three months. This allows for maximum relevance and accountability regarding self-care needs. A continuous attention to your well-being is deserved.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Self Care Routine Practices
