Make 2021 the Year of You!
Let's face it for most of us 2020 was hard! Challenging, draining, isolating, relentless and full of ups and downs are just a few words that describe the last 12 months. It's been a year since the start of the pandemic and we are slowly beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. In times of increased stress it is especially vital that you make time for you. Take time to "intentionally affirm, intentionally meet your needs and intentionally set boundaries" for yourself. In other words, we have to learn to practice self care for our mental and physical wellness.
Believe me, I know this may seem impossible at times. As a Psychologist, business owner, wife, and mother there are many roles I also play, leaving limited time in the day for myself. Yet, it is also because of these roles that we cannot walk around with our cup empty. We must remind ourselves, as this honest and inspiring Ted Talk by Jessica Brubaker asserts, "You matter, you're valuable and you are enough...
What Is Self Care?
Self-care is any activity that we do deliberately in order to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical health. Although it’s a simple concept in theory, it’s something we very often overlook. Good self-care is key to improved mood and reduced anxiety. It’s also key to a good relationship with yourself and others.*
*Here are 5 tips for self care:
Find ways to relax: Meditation, yoga, getting a massage, taking a bath or walking in the woods
Try to do something you enjoy every day. That might mean dancing, watching a favorite TV show, working in the garden, painting or reading.
See friends to build your sense of belonging. Consider joining a support group to make new friends
Create a “no” list, with things you know you don’t like or you no longer want to do. Examples might include: Not checking emails at night, not attending gatherings you don’t like, not answering your phone during lunch/dinner.
Live Healthy: Eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and avoid drugs and alcohol. Manage stress and go for regular medical check-ups.
It is important to set aside at least 15 minutes a day to refuel your tank. What do you want to do for self care? Take time out to rest and recharge. After you made it through 2020, believe me, you've earned it!
Counseling in Chicago and Illinois
At Mindful Healing Counseling, we understand the challenges life can bring. That's why our team comprises several therapists who treat a variety of concerns and offer counseling services virtually to individuals residing in Chicago and throughout Illinois.
Our therapists are experienced and trained in working with people dealing with various concerns such as anxiety, trauma, depression, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, relationship difficulties, life transitions, setting boundaries, managing family dynamics, navigating grief, and more. We prioritize providing affirming spaces for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals. We offer a range of evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based approaches, relational therapy, and more. Our services extend to adults of all ages, as well as teens, college students, couples, and families.
Reach out to us today. You can contact us by filling out our contact form or by calling or texting us at 708-419-3171. We're here to support you every step of the way.
