Self-Care Between Sessions

By: Kelsey Brown, Master's level Intern
     Have you ever reflected on what self-care looks like in the mental health field or considered the benefits to routinely engaging in self-care? Self-care looks different for everyone. What works for you might not work for someone else, and that’s okay! Finding ways to incorporate self-care into your life is an incredible tool that can be used at any moment in time. So, what are some self-care ideas?

1. Channel your creativity! What is creativity? The Oxford Dictionary defines creativity as “involving the use of skill and imagination to produce something new or a work of art.” What does this mean? Well, using your imagination can look like many different things. Activities such as reading, coloring, drawing, painting, and dancing allow you to open your mind to the endless possibilities that encompass imagination. Not only does creativity benefit your mental and physical health, but it can also allow you to form a deeper connection with yourself.
2. Meditate! The idea of meditation can be overwhelming for some. Where do you even start? Before exploring ways to mediate, it’s important to understand the benefits to routinely using mediation. For some, meditation is a great way to reduce stress. Mediation does not have to look the same for everyone. Meditation can occur in the comfort of your home or even migrate outdoors. Walking mediation is a great mediation tool that allows you to experience the benefits to being outside while also experiencing the benefits of meditation. Finding a space that works best for you and your mediation can ultimately be an incredible self-care technique. 
3. Unplug from social media! It’s no secret that social media is a constantly growing and easily accessible source in today’s society. Most people have social media for personal and even occupational use. Considering social media is so easily accessible, it can be difficult to step away, even for a day. However, there are many benefits to taking time away from social media, which is why taking a moment to unplug can be considered self-care. Unplugging allows for self-reflection without the distractions that come with social media. Unplugging also can encourage you to spend more time outdoors, which has many benefits of its own. Lastly, unplugging can allow for more meaningful interactions with those around you. There are definitely many other benefits to unplugging, however even these few show the many ways unplugging, even for a day, can be a great form of self-care.