International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate women’s achievements and advocate for gender equality. However, it’s also an opportunity for women to prioritize their own mental health and wellbeing. In a world that often demands more than we can give, it’s important for women to take care of themselves so they can continue to show up as their best selves. In this article, we’ll explore five self-care tips that women can use on International Women’s Day (and beyond) to support their physical, emotional, and mental health.
Here’s one of my favorite journals that help me maintain my self-care, here.
Prioritize Sleep On International Women’s Day
As women, we often juggle multiple roles and responsibilities, and sleep can easily fall by the wayside. However, getting enough quality sleep is crucial for our overall health and wellbeing. Lack of sleep can affect our mood, cognitive function, and immune system, among other things. On the other hand, getting enough restful sleep can improve our energy levels, reduce stress, and boost our immune system.
To prioritize sleep on International Women’s Day, try setting a consistent bedtime and wake-up time. Create a bedtime routine that helps you wind down and relax before sleep. This might include taking a warm bath, reading a book, or practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation. Aim to avoid screens (phones, TVs, tablets) for at least an hour before bed, as the blue light they emit can disrupt our sleep-wake cycle.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a powerful tool for reducing stress and anxiety, improving focus and attention, and increasing feelings of happiness and wellbeing. It involves bringing our attention to the present moment, without judgment or distraction. Mindfulness can take many forms, from meditation to yoga to simply taking a few deep breaths throughout the day.
To practice mindfulness on International Women’s Day, try setting aside a few minutes for a guided meditation or yoga practice. Alternatively, simply take a few deep breaths before starting your day, before a meal, or whenever you feel stressed or overwhelmed. Notice the sensation of your breath moving in and out of your body, and allow any thoughts or feelings to come and go without getting caught up in them.
It’s always great to refer to affirmation cards to help uplift your spirits. Here’s one that I enjoy, click here.
Connect with Others
As social creatures, humans thrive on connection and social support. However, in a world that often prioritizes productivity over connection, it can be easy to feel isolated or disconnected. Taking time to connect with others can boost our mood, reduce stress, and increase feelings of social support and belonging.
To connect with others on International Women’s Day, reach out to a friend or family member you haven’t talked to in a while. Set up a virtual coffee date or phone call to catch up and connect. Alternatively, consider joining a local community group or social club that aligns with your interests or passions. Connecting with others who share our values and interests can be a powerful way to feel seen, heard, and supported.
Move Your Body
Exercise is a powerful tool for supporting our physical and mental health. It can improve our cardiovascular health, reduce our risk of chronic disease, and boost our mood and energy levels. However, exercise doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym or running a marathon. Movement can take many forms, from taking a walk around the block to dancing in your living room.
To move your body on International Women’s Day, find an activity that feels enjoyable and energizing for you. This might mean going for a hike in nature, taking a dance class, or simply stretching or doing some yoga at home. For home yoga, I use this durable and portable mat, HERE. The key is to find an activity that feels good for your body and aligns with your interests and values.
Practice Gratitude On International Women’s Day
Gratitude is a powerful practice for cultivating a positive mindset and increasing feelings of contentment and happiness. It involves acknowledging and appreciating the good things in our lives, no matter how small. Research has shown that practicing gratitude can improve our relationships, reduce feelings of depression and anxiety, and increase our overall sense of wellbeing.
To practice gratitude on International Women’s Day, take a few minutes to reflect on the good things in your life. This might include things like your health, your relationships, your job, or even the simple pleasure of a warm cup of tea. Write down a list of things you’re grateful for (in your journal, here), or simply take a few moments to mentally acknowledge and appreciate them. You might be surprised at how much of an impact this simple practice can have on your mood and outlook.
You should write in a journal daily. Here’s one journal you can use, HERE.
In conclusion, self-care is an essential part of our overall health and wellbeing, and it’s important for women to prioritize their own needs and self-care practices. By prioritizing sleep, practicing mindfulness, connecting with others, moving our bodies, and practicing gratitude, we can support our physical, emotional, and mental health and cultivate a greater sense of balance and wellbeing in our lives. So this International Women’s Day, take a moment to celebrate yourself and all the amazing things you do, and commit to making self-care a priority in your life.
