Self-Care Resource Guide
Self Care can look different for everyone, but we know it can be tough to schedule the much-needed time for rest.
Self-care can sometimes be easier in the summer, as there is no snow, the weather is typically warm and sunny, and we may find ourselves with time off from work/school. We have compiled a small list of activities that may work for you to get into your self-care routine, along with some links to areas or activities :).
Go for a Walk/Get Outside.
The GTA has lots of green space, from the local trails to provincial parks. There are often loads of activities for all ages, and it is a great chance to get outdoors after being cooped up during the winter. You can take part in walking, hiking, camping, swimming, or just relaxing outdoors.
Try a New Recipe.
Cooking or baking is a great idea to incorporate into your self-care routine. It allows you to be creative while also working towards an end goal - a delicious meal or snack! The payoff is definitely worth it when it comes to making yourself a meal that you want to eat. Maybe you have a meal you can't stop thinking about from a vacation you went on, or you may just want to mix up your dinner roster. The Food Network has tons of recipes for your next 5-star meal.
Work on a Puzzle.
With the rain we have been having, it can feel easy not to want to engage in anything fun or outdoors. Puzzles are not just fun, but they invoke a challenge. They are great to do by yourself or with a family member. Plus, with the many designs they come in, you are sure to find one that you like and maybe want to display once done!
Go to a Concert.
Live music is back and better than ever! With local concerts and performances happening all over town, to the big ones in Toronto, there is something for everyone. Whether you go alone (trust me on this!) or with family and friends, you are sure to have a great time. Live music and music in general, is something that really allows individuals to feel relaxed and energized, which is great for our mental health!
Treat Yourself!
Sometimes we need to take notes from “Parks and Recreation” characters Tom Haverford and Donna Meagle and treat ourselves! This doesn't have to be extravagant or luxurious, but maybe something catches your eye at the mall, or you want to get your nails done since you never go to a real salon. Small gestures like this can make us feel better. Feeling good about these things can positively change our moods and behaviours, making us more inclined to do what we want.
Go to the Library for Your Next Read.
Reading is a great way to take a break from technology while also engaging in a form of entertainment. There are quite literally thousands of options for books - non-fiction or fiction, history or sports, biographies or fantasy - there is truly something for everyone. Take a look at what the new summer reads are at your local library. Even better - libraries are FREE and open to everyone in the community.
Clean Up Your Space.
Cleaning can sometimes seem daunting or like the biggest chore ever. However, evidence suggests that a tidy home/living space can actually boost your mood. Even if it is just having things on a shelf or in drawers, sometimes seeing things in a typical place makes you feel at ease. There are tons of ways to declutter and organize your space, and resources are available for that, as well. Even 5 minutes of quick organization will do wonders for your mental health.
Catch up on sleep.
With some extra time on your hands, you may want to do absolutely nothing, which is perfectly fine! Rest is so important to our health, and it is necessary to get a good amount of sleep every night. Sometimes, stress and worry allow us to not have the best sleep. By scheduling a nighttime routine to wind down and relax, we can ensure we are not worrying before we go to sleep. When you feel tired or are unable to concentrate, that’s your brain and body telling you to get some rest!
Self-care is necessary for our everyday lives, no matter how big or small the action is.
This list is designed as a starting point to ensure you have a base to work from. Self-care will look different to everyone, so finding what works for you when you are nearing burnout or feeling stressed is critical. Once you incorporate self-care into your daily life, it becomes a habit and necessary! Once you reach this stage, you have the tools on hand when needed, and you can mitigate stress, feelings of being overwhelmed, and burnout.
Whatever it is, we’re here for you.
Life is uncertain. Jobs are stressful. Parenting is hard. Relationships take work. Families can be dysfunctional. And sometimes, love hurts. When you’re confronted by feelings, events, or issues that are making your life challenging, it’s okay to ask for some help.
