Naomi Pauling
Therapy
What do you do to keep well?
Hello! I’m trialling this page for you to share what you do to keep well.
The aim of this page is to create a collaborative resource of diverse self-care ideas. It’s a space to share what works for you, and also become inspired and motivated by others to try something new if your usual strategies aren’t working.
The idea is to use the comments section below to share what helps you get through challenges, difficult times, or day-to-day stresses. You can talk about what’s helping you get through Covid times, or more generally what gets you through life. You can share what you’re doing currently, but also what you wish you were doing more of or what used to be helpful.
Please remember that “one size fits all” doesn’t apply to mental health and wellbeing. Just because something works for one person, doesn’t mean it will work for you (and vice versa). Nevertheless, trying something different is almost always better than continuing to do the same thing if it isn’t working.
I’ve also started a blog for some of my own self-care projects here.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with me if you have any concerns or questions.
Do feel free to give a pseudonym if you wish to remain anonymous.
Thank you for sharing!
Naomi Pauling 
To look after myself during this unsettled year of 2020
– I don’t watch the news or listen to the radio
– I endeavour to get 8 full hours of sleep at night
– I walk 5-8 kilometres most days, either outside or in my living room listening to upbeat music
– I challenge myself to do or learn something new – currently crocheting 🧶 but next on the list is sewing, learning more about computers and learning a new language
– I don’t have a garden but my little balcony is loaded with pot plants. This years colour theme is purples, rusts and greens
– finally, what a great time to go through closets, wardrobes, cupboards, boxes of stuff and bookshelves and taking whatever is no longer loved or needed to the charity shop. Most of those shops sell stuff to make money to help people in need
🤸🏼♀️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for sharing! Such good points – taking a break from the news can be such a relief! And learning something new is hugely important for me too. Makes me feel productive and stimulated!
LikeLike
– tending to my basic needs; eating/drinking/resting (this is the hardest for me)
– connecting with my body through mindfulness of movement
– sharing with others
– laughter
– learning
– dreaming
– compassion for myself and others
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for sharing Deb 😊
I think of tending to basic needs as “going back to the basics” – everything else might be absolute chaos, but if you can look after your basic needs, you’re already in a pretty great place 👌 easier said than done for sure!
I’m so glad you mention laughter too 😁 it can be such a strong remedy, release, coping strategy, bonding experience, etc. 🙌
LikeLike
-Proper routine around food and sleep, try not to stay up to late or sleeping in for too long. And making time to have good home cooked meals.
– Taking to friends and share when I’m feeling stressed etc.
– Moving my body, dancing at home, little exercises at home or going for walks.
– Therapy regularly, able to have a space where I’m reminded to check in with myself and reflect.
– Love a good bath and nice candles, with epsom salts, essential oils and bubbles!
-Hobbies such as crochet, reading, or painting while listening to music or podcasts.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for sharing Ingrid 🤗 routine is amazingly helpful! I remember when I was a teen and it was the best thing to not have a routine. And now I set an alarm even when I’m on holiday so I don’t get too out of synch 😂
And thank you for mentioning therapy too – it’s not just for crisis, but can be for so many other reasons, one of the most important I think – having a safe space to check in and reflect.
LikeLike
For me, self-care is:
– getting fresh air – going outside even if it’s just for a little wander, taking time to be in nature
– talking to people, particularly when I’m struggling
– gardening
– making the time to read
– listening to music and dancing to it (an instant mood booster for me)
– cooking, and eating well
– chamomile tea before bed
– having a shower (I’m amazed by how much this can change my state of mind sometimes)
LikeLike