Self-care refers to activities undertaken with the intention of enhancing energy, restoring health and reducing stress.
There are so many benefits to self-care, including having a greater capacity to manage stress, increased resilience and reduced symptoms of mental health issues.
Self-care can be categorised into seven elements, all of which contain bite-sized strategies designed to provide you with healing: Mental, Emotional, Physical, Pleasure, Sensory, Social, and Spiritual.
This week, we encourage you to focus on the Mental element of self-care. These can be described as activities that heal or stimulate your mind.
Here are some easy steps to achieve your Mental wellness goals:
- Define three daily goals, nothing more. This makes goals achievable, while also allowing for normal “emergencies” at home that might take up your time.
- Learn not to feel selfish when you say “no.”
- Take a nap without an alarm clock.
- Learn how to make a budget and keep track of your money. These money-saving apps can help.
- Intentionally schedule “me time” on your calendar or planner.
- Reward yourself for completing small tasks.
- Get some inspiration by reading stories of people who overcame adversity.
- Discover your stress indicators, such as mood swings, shortening temper, or feeling drained, overwhelmed, or angry. Use these “warning signs” to let you know you need “me time” and some self-care.
If you need further support, you can also use Curtin’s Student Wellbeing Advisory Service for free and confidential advice.
