Why caring for yourself helps you care for others
I have shared a number of articles, posts and chapters in my books on the importance of creating a culture of self-care, along with honouring ourselves and our loved ones outside of work. So, this week I’ve taken time out to head away to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary.
One of my favourite quotes from Eleanor Brown sums it up perfectly.
“Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.”
I think most of us are aware that exercising, eating well and sleeping well are helpful for our self-care.
Here are few other tips you can use to care for yourself and others.
1. Box Breathing
Box breathing is a form of deep breathing utilised by stressed people everywhere. It’s also known as sam vritti pranayama, born of the yogic practice of pranayama, or focusing on the breath.
Box breathing is a timed technique with a set rhythm that can reduce stress. It is often referred to as four-square breathing and is simple to practice. Get comfortable, then do the following.
Let all the breath in your lungs out to the count of four
Hold your breath for four counts
Take four quick deep breaths
Hold that breath for four counts
Repeat.
2. Water
Remember through the day to hydrate your cells. We cannot survive without water. It is essential for numerous bodily processes, such as supply nutrition to cells, eliminating waste, safeguarding joints and organs, and regulating body temperature. It is also crucial for your voice. Have a bottle of water beside you. There is even an app to remind you to drink water regularly throughout the day.
3. Daily digital consumption awareness
Devices can be a sources of connection with family and friends but can also lead to endless scrolling and wasted time. I am also guilty of this (especially Instagram reels of cute puppies!).
Having healthy boundaries with social media and being aware of what we consume is important for mental health. Focusing on comparisons or reading new stories of constant negativity can play havoc.
4. Encourage connection – who could you reach out to?
We need to be aware when a team member may need additional help and support. They could be going through a challenging time outside work, grieving or navigating difficult personal circumstances. People are not always good at asking for help, so saying, “Please let me know if you need anything” is not enough. Rather than waiting for them to approach you, proactively reach out and see how you can help or support them. This extends beyond the team and may involve anyone within the organisation.
5. Choose your response
One of the most empowering beliefs you can adopt is choosing your response in any given situation. In his bestselling book, The 7 habits of Highly Effective People, Covey talks about the space between stimulus (what happens) and the response (reaction). There, we always have the power to choose. It’s like a giant pause button. We don’t have to react to every stimulus; instead, we can pause, reflect, and choose our response. This is a useful reminder when dealing with challenging situations and applies equally outside work.
