Making affordable and eco-friendly luxury bath products is our passion at LadyBird. However, we recognize that real self-care isn’t just about taking a nice long soak at the end of the day or using good smelling soap.
Real self-care involves taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being in a sustainable and meaningful way. Here are some examples of real self-care practices:
(1) Prioritizing rest and sleep:
Frequently in today’s hustle and bustle culture, sleep can sometimes take a back seat. According to the CDC, 1 in 3 American adults don’t get enough sleep. Sleep is essential to every function of the human body. Without adequate sleep (a recommended minimum of 7 hours per night for adults) we cannot function at our best. Consistent sleep deprivation has been directly tied to increased mortality, memory issues, trouble concentrating, weakened immunity, depression, anxiety, and many other issues. Implementing a good sleep routine and good sleep hygiene are important for quality sleep. Getting enough rest is one of the most important things many of us can do for our physical and mental health.
(2) Eating a balanced and nutritious diet:
Eating healthy foods can help you feel better physically and emotionally. Make sure you are eating enough food and getting all of your essential nutrients. Studies have consistently tied sufficient nutrition to good mental health. Start by adding healthy foods into your diet, not restricting yourself. Remember to treat yourself on occasion too!
(3) Regular physical exercise:
Engaging in regular exercise has been shown to reduce stress and improve overall health. Exercise can look different for everyone. We all have different abilities and preferences. Some people may prefer high-intensity workouts, while others may prefer more low-impact activities such as walking, yoga, or swimming. The key is to find a type of movement that you enjoy and that is sustainable for you in the long term. Exercise also doesn’t have to be going to the gym. It can be hiking, playing with your children or pets, walking around your neighborhood, a daily stretching routine, or any other type of movement that you can incorporate into your day.
(4) Spending time in nature:
Spending time outdoors can have numerous mental and physical health benefits, while also fostering a sense of connection and appreciation for the environment. Today we frequently forget that humans are a part of the natural world, not something that stands separate. Our bodies are designed to spend most of our daily lives outdoors. However, the average American today spends more than 10 hours indoors, looking at a screen. We spend more time inside than ever before in human history. Scientists are still discovering all the positive impacts of spending time in the natural world. However, we do know that more time spent in natural spaces is directly related to an increase in health. One study showed that people who had spent at least two hours recreating in nature per week reported significantly greater health and well-being.
(5) Minimizing exposure to environmental toxins:
Environmental toxins can have a significant impact on mental and physical wellbeing. Many personal care products are especially culpable of containing hormone disruptors. EDCs, or Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals, have been linked in recent years to a range of health concerns from cancer and immunological diseases to neurological conditions. This is why Lady Bird uses 100% natural, food grade ingredients, and plastic free packaging. No hidden toxins- ever. We believe that what you put on your body matters.
(6) Nurturing social connections:
Spending time with friends and family or participating in social activities can help promote a sense of connection and well-being. Humans are primates- we are social animals! Sometimes self care is having a quite moment or evening to yourself. However, other times it is going out and spending time with other humans. Nurture your relationships with loved ones. Involve yourself in your community. Meet new friends. We have a basic need to feel a sense of belonging and connection to others- don’t forget to fulfill that.
(7) Seeking professional help when needed:
Seeking professional help can be an essential part of self-care. Self-care isn’t always easy, or fun. The brain is an organ. Sometimes just like other body parts, it requires a deeper level of care than we ourselves can give. There’s no shame in seeking external help from a person who is qualified to provide it.
Self-care is made up of intentional and proactive actions that we take everyday in order to support our overall well-being. Self-care isn’t something we do once on a weekend as a treat or indulgence, it’s an ongoing practice of prioritizing our mental and physical health, so that we can be our best selves. This in turn allows us to contribute positively to our communities and our world. When we prioritize our own well being we are better equipped to meet the needs of others. Remember, there is only one of you. Your unique experiences, perspectives, and talents make you an irreplaceable member of the human community!