Written by Keysha Davis
Self-care has been a buzzword for some time now, almost to the point where the term has become so ubiquitous that it’s beginning to lose its meaning. But we are here to remind you of its importance in helping you to navigate modern life.
In a nutshell, self-care is the practice of committing to nurturing and prioritising your well-being. In this fast-paced world we currently inhabit, there is no doubt that self-care is one of the most crucial aspects for mental wellbeing and should be protected at all costs. Regular self-care offers numerous benefits: increased confidence, reduced stress, a stronger immune system, and improved sleep. Here follows some tips on how to use self-care practices to support your physical, mental, and emotional health, and wellbeing.
1) Nurture your Body
When life gets busy, it’s easy to put good habits aside in favour of convenience. However, prioritising your physical well-being is one of the most important forms of self-care.
2) Eat for Energy and Wellness
Our bodies are the engines that keep us going, and they need the right fuel to function at their best. Instead of relying on takeaways or highly processed foods, make an effort to cook homemade meals regularly. A balanced diet should include:
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Protein for muscle repair and overall health
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Fruits & Vegetables rich in vitamins and antioxidants
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Healthy fats to support brain function and skin health
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Plenty of water to keep you hydrated and energized
Additionally, research shows that gut health is directly linked to mood and mental well-being. By reducing excessive sugar, salt, and processed foods, you can support a healthier mind and body.
3) Calm your Mind
Our minds have never been so stimulated. From social media feeds, phone notifications, emails, – the constant bombardment of information just never stops. It’s no wonder our minds are overstimulated and frazzled. A calm, well-balanced mind is one of the greatest acts of self-preservation, to mitigate afflictions like stress, depression, and anxiety. So, what can one do? While it’s difficult to control outside environments, such as the workplace or daily commute, we can control our home environment. As part of your daily self-care routine, cultivate a calm environment by keeping your space clean and clear. Additionally, journalling is a proven formula for calming the mind. It allows us to reconnect with ourselves, process our feelings, and gain clarity. Try writing three things you’re grateful for each morning.
4) Care for your Curls
Nothing says self-care more than looking after your hair. When our hair looks and feels unkempt and undone, it’s a tell-tale sign that we haven’t been putting ourselves first. Get into the habit of carving out some time to love on your curls. For your morning ritual, gently massage your scalp with a nourishing oil such as Afrocenchix Restore Hydrating Hair Oil For Strength & Shine, a lightweight natural oil blended with chia seed and incha inchi oils that creates a protective barrier to lock in moisture and shine. For weekly hair maintenance deep treat your coils/curls with Afrocenchix Swirl Silicone-Free Conditioner to strengthen the hair and protect it from damage and breakage. Every night, implement a nighttime hair routine , which typically looks like installing a simple protective style to minimise tangles, before wrapping your hair with a satin bonnet like Afrocenchix’s Print Bonnet or sleeping on a satin pillowcase to protect your hair.
5) Lean into your Hobbies
One of the challenges posed by modern life is the feeling that we don’t have enough time. Between work deadlines, family obligations, side-hustles, and passion projects – our daily lives are scheduled to the point where there isn’t any wiggle room for downtime. The result? Burnout, unregulated nervous systems, and the unshakeable feeling that life is just a treadmill. One solution to making your life feel more enriched and purposeful is to explore the idea of starting a hobby. One of the disservices we do to ourselves as adults is letting go of the things that bring us joy. Research has shown that starting a leisurely pastime can reduce stress, improve physical and mental health, and foster positive social connections. So, whether you choose netball, football, learning a musical instrument, or photography as your new hobby - the most important thing is to just get started and give it the same care and attention that you do to other facets of your life.
Cultivating a self-care routine is about creating a life that supports your overall physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. By taking stock of your life, and integrating self-care rituals, you will be rewarded with a mental state that feels energised, fulfilled, and connected with life and those who inhabit it. Additionally, hair care is a key component of self-care.
Ready to elevate your self-care routine? Explore Afrocenchix’s premium natural haircare products to nourish your curls with the care they deserve. [Shop now].
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