Giving Yourself Grace & Compassion Through Self-Care

Mirralle Bennet, MHRM

Self-Care & Wellness Associate

Are you exhausted after 2020? Do you feel like it has been one thing after another and another?
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Going into the new year I was expecting all new energy, to be filled with a new inspiration and vibration to ride the wave. When that did not happen, for me, it got me down. I failed to realize that I did not do was give myself the time needed to recover from the holidays and 2020 energy all together. 

Regardless, going into the new year is still an ideal time to give yourself some grace and compassion. Time to recharge from the holidays and get ready for the year ahead.

Here are 6 types of self-care to kick start the new year.

Physical Self-Care - This is taking care of our bodies. This does not have to be a new workout plan or anything too extreme, but rather something that you enjoy. The key to self-care is it should bring you joy. I like to start with breathing exercises. They are easy to do and are quite relaxing. Other simple ideas are eating more fruits and veggies and drinking more water. I set aside time to plan and prepare to make this easier.

Emotional Self-Care - Here you are becoming more in tune with your emotions and giving yourself the love and compassion you need. It’s about checking in with yourself. With the climate of the country this is even more necessary. The last few days have been intense and filled with an array of emotions. Having a way to express your emotions is so important. Some ideas include journaling, putting on some music that you enjoy, dancing or a creative project. Have fun with it!

Spiritual Self-Care - This is nourishing your soul and striving for inner peace. This doesn’t have to be related to religion but rather to yourself. Finding your sole purpose by doing the things that bring you joy and make you feel alive while doing them.
Intellectual Self-Care - This includes doing something that nourishes and challenges your mind. For example, expand your knowledge through reading. A great read for intellectual self-care is “Stillness is Key” by Ryan Holiday. Another idea is watching a documentary on something that you are interested in.

Social Self-Care - This is especially necessary now. With the current political climate, taking a break and only taking in what you absolutely need from social networks is a great way to exercise social self-care. This may also include having a group of friends or family that are there to support you and add to your cup. It’s ok to set boundaries for people that can overwhelm you during this time.

Sensory Self-Care – This form of self-care is all about feeding your senses. This includes sight, smell, touch and sound. This affects what you are bringing into your mind and the present moment. My go to for sensory is essential oils. A quick roller blend that has frankincense, lavender or lime helps in a pinch.

Always remember the impact of self-care is to do things that you enjoy and bring you joy. Show yourself grace and compassion. You are worthy of love and showing yourself love. 

Mirralle Bennet, MHRM

I am a small home business Owner of Global Threads Quilting. Professionally I am in the U.S Coast Guard Reserve, full time I am a civilian for the Army, Logistics Specialist. Both jobs keep me on the go a lot and can be draining at times. In 2017 I got divorced right before an overseas deployment, I had no idea the toll this took on my mental health. I threw myself into work and being there to support shipmates, without taking the time I needed for myself. In a few short months I lost my voice and was forced to take the time I needed to recover. Which brought me to self-care and the importance of taking care of my mental, physical and emotional health. Being away from home and not having my usual outlet, of quilting was difficult, but I had to adjust and learn new ways to care for myself in the most stressful times, listening to my body, and giving it what it needed. I’m excited to share on the go self-care tips with you lovely ladies. Instagram: @Justmirralle_