At Soilse Pharmacy we appreciate just how important self-care is. We know that if you take good care of yourself, then you are better equipped to take care of everyone else.  Self-care comes in many forms. It can mean taking steps to be fitter and maintain good physical and mental health. It can also means recognizing when your social and psychological needs are not being met and making a few simple changes to address this. It may also mean allowing yourself some time just for you.

Self-care means giving yourself permission to pause

The practical side of self-care is entirely personal and differs from person to person. Some people may feel they just need some respite from responsibilities and chores to take a breath and chill. Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is to take time and do nothing. Others might crave time with friends or enjoying a long walk. Self-care can also mean allowing yourself some luxury and indulgence. A home spa evening could be just perfect to lift the spirits.  At Soilse Pharmacy we stock a range of quality beauty products for just such occasions. Choose a rejuvenating face mask or complete manicure /pedicure products or .  enjoy a warm bath infused with lavender to induce a good night’s sleep. Self-care does not have to end at that one evening of indulgence. Invest in good skincare and haircare products and pamper yourself on a daily basis. Recognising that you are ‘worth it (to quote a popular advertisement) is good for your soul!

Treat yourself as you would a precious loved one

A good diet with regular exercise and a balanced lifestyle is the epitome of good self-care. Taking care of your physical and mental health assists in avoiding the risk of serious health issues and should be part of your daily routine. From time to time, you might need some vitamins and supplements to boost immune systems, assist with those minor health issues and ensure that your body, the only one you will ever have, is getting all, it needs to keep you functioning well. And if anxiety should creep in, or if you are feeling a little bit down, seek the appropriate help. Of course, we all can have bad days. Many people find Rescue Remedy assists with day to day coping skills and can give quick relief at times of stress. However, constant stress will have a detrimental effect on your mental health and physical health and spiral out of control if we are not vigilant. Simple self-care practices, such as taking breaks, connecting with those who keep us uplifted and loved will help in avoiding feelings of depression and anxiety. Practicing meditation or yoga and connecting with nature may cut down the negative effects too. If symptoms persist you should seek assistance from your doctor. This is practicing self-care at a high level.

Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you

• Learn to say ‘no,’ when you need to
• Practice deep breathing for a few minutes when you need to.
• Eat Healthily
• Spend time with people who uplift you
• Speak to yourself kindly
• Don’t let your ailments, pans and aches go unchecked
• Recognise and attend to your needs as well as those around you

There is often a feeling of guilt when those who are used to looking after others, take time to look after themselves. This is an archaic, outdated attitude. Self-care enhances your own life and that of those around you. Ditch any silly feelings of self-indulgence and martyrdom and learn to accept that in caring for yourself, you care for others too. This means taking a sick day when you need to (We learnt that one during the pandemic!), resting when we need it and acknowledging our own needs, both in mind and body.

Whether you are an exhausted caregiver, a worried parent or just feeling temporarily tired, burnt-out, or stressed, a little time spent taking care of your own needs is essential in getting back to your real self. So, book that gym. Go for that walk or swim and make that appointment for the dentist, doctor, or optician, that you have been putting off for so long. Treat yourself the way you would treat those you love.

Take time to do what makes you happy