Self-care is a relatively new idea and one that has some controversy surrounding it. It may take a little time to get into the groove of self-care, but as a highly sensitive person (HSP), basic self-care can go a long way.
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8 Hours of Sleep
Everyone needs to be getting their zzz’s. It’s a fact of life, but sometimes a solid eight just isn’t in going to happen. That’s fine, but try to never go more than one night shorting yourself on sleep. Sleeping is your body and mind’s time to recoup from the physical and mental stressors of the day.
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Listen to Your Body
Do you feel your shoulders tensing up or your thoughts turning negative? Listen to the cues your body is giving you and respond to them accordingly. Take a break from your work, do a little desk yoga, or eat a nutritious lunch. Your body will tell you what it needs, you just have to listen.
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Befriend Other HSPs
Being friends with other HSPs gives you a sympathetic shoulder and a friend who understands when you say, “I just want to stay home tonight.”
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Read
Reading is literally a doorway into other worlds. Cuddling up with a good book is relaxing and cup-filling and is a great way to temporarily escape the stressors of everyday life.
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Get Creative
Be it painting, making wreaths, or decorating your home, getting creative is an outstanding outlet for excess emotions.
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Hot Bath
A hot bath or shower, especially when mixed with a good smelling candle or essential oils, can provide relief to an exhausted body and mind.
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Tea
Caffeine-free tea can be a relaxing way to move past a stressful situation or a busy day. There are also many blends available that can aid in stress relief and sleep.
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Write
Journaling is an understated practice. This doesn’t have to be your Dear Diary entries from middle school. Simply writing about your feelings, the thoughts that you can’t move past, or even making a simple brain dump of everything rolling through your mind can allow you to let go.
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Pet an Animal
Petting animals (dog, cat, rabbit, etc.) is a relaxing pastime and releases feel-good endorphins for both you and your pet.
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Clean Up
Decluttering your home can also help to declutter your mind. This goes for your workspace, your purse, your vehicle, or anywhere else you spend time. You should be happy and comfortable in the spaces you live in.
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Meditative Breathing
Simply thinking about your breathing for a few minutes, feeling the air move in, and out of your lungs can be a relaxing practice and will allow you get out of your head for a while—something HSPs definitely need!
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Walk It Out
Or any other physical activity that makes you feel good. Moving your body releases endorphins and will help clear your mind of the day’s events.
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Find the Beat
Music at any time is fun, but being able to listen to music through or immediately after a stressful situation can help relax you. Consider carrying headphones with you, but be sure always to be aware of your surroundings.
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Walk Away from Toxicity
Be it people or situations, walk away from and say no to any situation that makes you uncomfortable.
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Peace Out Social Media
Social media is giving us unrealistic expectations of everything. It also is an easy way for people to make their lives appear easier or better than they really are. If you find yourself mindlessly scrolling or feeling down about yourself when online, log out, and take a break.
Being an HSP is no easy task. However, it can be a lot easier when you take care of yourself first.