What Types of Self-Care Are There?
Various forms of self-care involve different activities or actions. Each form is as important as the other and drives optimal health and well-being.
Physical Health
Taking care of your physical health is a form of self-care that helps improve quality of life and prevent or manage chronic conditions.
Physical self-care will be different for each person, but ways you can practice physical self-care include:2
- Getting the proper amount of exercise
- Eating regular, well-balanced meals that are mostly whole foods and staying hydrated
- Engaging in relaxing activities that can help manage stress
- Getting enough sleep
- Getting regular medical and dental care
Mental Health
Mental self-care is designed to drive a healthy mind by practicing brain-stimulating activities and healthy mental behaviors. Mental self-care can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy.2
While no two people are the same, these strategies can help you manage stress and stimulate your mind:
- Use relaxation programs or apps regularly to incorporate meditation, yoga, muscle relaxation, or breathing exercises.
- Practice gratitude by reminding yourself daily of things you are grateful for. Write them down at night or replay them in your mind.
- Participate in creative activities you enjoy.
- Read a book or do a puzzle.
- Play games such as Scrabble, crossword puzzles, or other brain teasers.
- Try a new hobby.
- Engage in exercise.
- Take adult education classes.
- Seek help from a professional as needed.