Self-care is on the public radar as an important practice. While it was previously thought of as selfish, it has come to be seen as a way for people to care for the many aspects of their health, including mental and physical health. Our seven elements of self care give a way for people to carve out time for themselves to focus on their well-being. Plus, they can reduce stress, which is detrimental to health and quality of life.
Self-care can provide a free and easy way for people to restore and help themselves, plus it can complement mental and physical health interventions.
What are the seven elements of self care?
1. Mental
Self-care targets mental health by cultivating a healthy mindset through mindfulness and curiosity. Mental-focused self-care helps to declutter the mind and reduce stress. You can care for the mental aspect of health through activities like:
- Writing
- Listening to podcasts
- Trying new hobbies
2. Emotional
Emotional health features the ability to regulate emotions and cope with difficult feelings. Self-care activities help connect you to your emotions and find a healthier way to process them.People who especially benefit from emotional self-care are those who have difficulty handling their emotions or coping with guilt or shame, as well as those who are regularly impacted by the negative moods of other people. Activities to help this area include:
- Journaling
- Practicing gratitude
- Talking to a therapist or health coach
- Taking medications prescribed by a medical professional
3. Physical
This area focuses on caring for your body through healthy actions like eating well, exercising and getting good amounts of sleep. Physical self-care can also include activities that help you feel calm, happy and balanced. Examples include:
- Being physically active
- Dancing to a favorite song
- Taking a bubble bath
- Napping
4. Environmental
The spaces and places around you affect your health and well-being, so caring for them can provide a form of self-care. Changes of scenery and appreciating the world around you can also help. Environmental activities include:
- Exploring new places
- Appealing to your five senses
- Arranging your workspace to make it comfortable and productive
5. Spiritual
A focus on spiritual self-care means supporting your soul through activities that offer a sense of purpose and satisfy curiosity and desire. Participating in this area can bring more meaning to life and create a sense of belonging. You can further your spiritual side through activities such as:
- Identifying your values
- Connecting with a higher power
- Seeking a community to belong to
- Volunteering
6. Recreational
Self-care can connect with your inner child through new hobbies and experiences. This area helps you have fun, let go of worry and stress, and feel more stimulated in life. Recreational self-care could include:
- Spending time doing nothing and feeling open to experiences
- Engaging in creative activities like arts, crafts, drawing or writing
- Going on adventures by yourself or with others
7. Social
Self-care activities do not always have to be solo. You can also heal and rejuvenate yourself through time spent with others or focused on others. Examples of social self-care includes:
- Calling people on the phone
- Talking to friends and family
- Writing a letter to someone, whether it’s a loved one or a pen pal
Make Self-Care Part of a Treatment Plan
Focusing on the elements of self care is a great way to help your health and well-being. Nonetheless, you may also need the support of professionals to address mental health conditions and guide your self-improvement. There is nothing wrong with seeking support, which can work hand-in-hand with self-care to help you become your best self. The staff at Jonas Hill is here to listen and help you find the best path forward. Get in touch so we can help you manage your emotions and mental health.
Jonas Hill Hospital & Clinic a division of Caldwell Memorial Hospital provides our community with safe, dignified and integrated care for adult patients experiencing an acute mental health need. We provide hope, treatment, and healing through a holistic program of evidence-based psychiatric treatment, team-based medical care, and education provided by engaging and dedicated professionals in a safe and healing environment. Contact Jonas Hill Hospital and Clinic today at (828) 394-6722 for more information. A safe space to heal.
