Self-care. It’s a bit of a buzzword right now, but what is it really and is it truly necessary?

Self-care is simply, taking care of yourself. It’s being intentional about finding little ways to maintain your physical, emotional and mental health. For a long time, I thought I didn’t have time to take a moment for my wellbeing. It wasn’t until after college, where I sat in front of a computer all the time, that I realized just how stressed and burnt out I was. The reason was simply that I had no clue when my mind and body needed to rest.

For those who primarily sit in front of a screen all day, creating an environment of wellness might feel a bit daunting, but actually is crucial for your health and overall productivity! You might be thinking, “But I have SO much to do. I don’t have time to rest” or “Slow down? I’m already on my fifth cup of coffee today.” But we think that by making space to take care of yourself will not only create a healthy work environment, but will also refresh you and get you ready to tackle even more. So here a few ways to give yourself a little refresher throughout your busy day ::

Take a walk :: Whether this is during a lunch break, mid-afternoon, or after work, getting active and being outside clears your mind and gets your body moving. It gives your eyes a break from looking at your computer screen. Just breathe in that fresh air and let your worries melt away.

Look up from your screen :: Working at a computer can be incredibly straining on the eyes. Be sure to look up from your screen often.

Drink water and eat snacks :: Stay hydrated! Your body needs water to function well! In addition to keeping hydrated, eat healthy, protein packed snacks throughout the day to keep your mind sharp and clear and curb those unhealthy cravings!

Take a day off :: Go sit in your favourite coffee shop. Explore a new place. Just sit in bed all day. Whatever it is, take a day every once in a while to refresh, reset and get your mind re-focused on the big picture.

Create a workspace that relaxes you :: No matter if you work from home, an office, or a different space every day, create a space that gives you peace. This may be having a candle, a plant (or several!), an inspirational quote, a picture of your dog, or just keeping your space clutter free! Having a workspace that relaxes you, benefits your overall emotional well being AND can help you to be more productive and less stressed!

Work/Life balance :: This one can be so difficult, especially if you own your own business and/or work from home. There’s always just one more email to be sent. Set a schedule and try to stick to it. It might vary from week to week (or even day to day), but having a cut off time to your work day creates boundaries and frees you up to do other things you enjoy!

When you work in front of a computer screen most of the day, it can be difficult to practice self-care, especially if are a business owner and/or work from home. This list is not exhaustive, by any means. Be creative! It doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Maybe just take a few minutes to drink a cup of coffee without your phone. Taking even a few moments to rest throughout the day will help in establishing a beneficial lifestyle where you can do your best work and be your best for yourself and those around you.

---

words by amy – studio intern