Creating and maintaining a self care plan can feel overwhelming. However, having a good sense of what we can do to look after ourselves is fundamental to looking after our mental health and wellbeing.
Rather than being a one off plan that we write up and store away, self care is more like a lifelong project that we create and recreate in order to support our changing self care needs.
So how do you create a self care project? Here are a few creative ideas to get you started...
Make a self-care collage
Use magazines, newspapers, old letters, pictures or any kind of medium. Cut the items down to size and glue them randomly onto large heavy paper. Post the paper some place where it will be seen and use it to boost your mood.
Compile a playlist for every mood
If you're into music, this might be particualrly appealing. You can organise your music library on your computer or your phone - or perhaps even write a list of songs you can listen to boost your mood. You can title the playlist according to the emotion it represents or according to how you'd like to use it e.g. "to help when I'm feeling angry"
Design self care cards
Use white or coloured paper to cut out index cards. On one side of the card, write something inspirational or uplifting and decorate the other side with pictures or a collage. When you're feeling low, you can pick out a card (without looking) and read it as a prompt for reflection.
Create a self care jar
Decorate an old empty jar using coloured paper, stickers, or paint. Fill the jar with strips of paper containing postive affirmations, coping statements, inspiring quotes, or positive notes to yourself. Pick one out every day or as needed.
Now, it's your turn! What self care projects have you found helpful? Look forward to hearing your ideas! 👩🎨
