The Self-Care Resolutions You Need to Make This New Year

Bubble baths, vanilla-scented candles, and soakin' up the sun on a hazy winter morning all constitute self-care, sure, but that's not it. There's a lot more to *truly* taking care of yourself—physically, mentally, spiritually, wholly. And, to those who say that self-care is selfish, you could just f**k off, cause it's really not. As you step into 2022, hopeful (as you are every year) for a fresh, new start, why not vow to unwind, recharge, and replenish the mind and body?

The first step in doing so is to LET GO. Let go of the negativity, let go of the past, let go of the worries, let go of the insecurities, just let go. As the saying goes ~ "you can't pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first." This year, while you may fail to live up to all the other (ahem, ambitious and somewhat unachievable) resolutions you've set up for yourself, try to follow through with the ones we've jot down below. 

 

Learn to Say No

 

Yes, saying "yes" may open up a world of opportunities, foster growth, and perhaps, broaden your horizon even. That said, saying "no" has perks of its own. Whether it be in your relationships, at work, or to yourself, say no when you feel the need to take a breather, or just be. Prioritising yourself will lay the foundation for self-love and self-care. Is your boss unloading a dozen responsibilities onto you? Say no. Is your partner forcing you into trying things outside your comfort zone? Say no. The "I must do everything, for everyone," attitude needs to go. Stop pleasing others. Instead, draw focus to the things that please you. 

 

Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

 

While you could say "no" to this—and often do—try not to, once in a while. It's true, growth lies in the unknown, and there's not much one can do to change this fact. If you've been afraid to travel the world solo or pursue an unconventional hobby, now is the time. Push yourself out of your rigid boundaries, there's a beautiful world waiting for you. Scribble down five things you've always wanted to try your hand at but have been too afraid to do. Through the course of the year, work towards each of them. Even if you don't manage to achieve all, at least you'll know you tried. 

 

Clear Out the Clutter

 

A clutter-free space encourages a clutter-free mind. So, why not kick-off 2022 with some cleanin' up? If you're a hoarder, let go of the things that you don't need. And, instead of discarding them, consider donating them to an orphanage or an NGO. The idea of decluttering is also synonymous with the idea of a fresh, new start to the year. Regulating your immediate environment can unknowingly have a significant impact on your mental state. 

 

Switch Off

 

To keep up with today's fast-paced, demanding lifestyle, it's important to switch off every once in a while. Cut down on your screentime and devote the extra hours to more meaningful activities such as spending a moment with a pet, an elderly member of the family, or just being with yourself. Meditate, take a nap, paint a picture, doodle, do what your heart desires. 

 

Let Go of the Idea of Perfection 

 

Can anything ever be simply perfect? No, it cannot. NOTHING in the world is really perfect—people, buildings, flowers, paintings, nothing. Striving for perfection is a dangerous trap, and once caught in it, it's tough to break free. But you've got to start somewhere, right? It's now or never, fellas. If you've developed the habit of re-re-writing texts, re-re-reading work presentations, and re-re-doing your eyeliner, just STOP. Find beauty in the little imperfections. 

 

Journal Your Thoughts

 

Introspecting on your thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and penning them down on paper, lends the opportunity to self-reflect, especially if you've been experiencing an emotional burnout. To get greater clarity on your needs and wants, jot down the daily happenings in your life. It'll help you figure out what's working for you, what needs to change, and perhaps, how to go about that change. 

 

Count Your Blessings

 

There's always *a lot* to be grateful for. People across the globe are suffering from atrocities you couldn't (and wouldn't) want to even imagine. So, instead of whining about what you don't have, and comparing yourself with 'the ideal' version of what you'd want to be, take a moment to count your blessings. Perhaps, start a gratitude journal this year; trust us, it'll make you feel a hell of a lot better. 

 

Hone Healthy Habits

 

You are what you eat, drink, feel, and think. Swap the fries for fruits, drink up to eight glasses of water a day, work out at least five times a week for 30 minutes, sleep for a minimum of eight hours, and indulge in mindful meditation. Building a healthy, balanced lifestyle will up the 'happy hormones' and keep infections at bay. Engagement in physical and spiritual activities are a sure shot stress buster, and indulging in wholesome dietary habits will keep your bodily organs working as well as a freshly oiled machine.