What’s in your Self-Care Tool Box?
Interlude Hypnotherapy

Published: June, 2023
Competing Demands and Self-Care
Competing demands and expectations, depleted energy, frazzled nerves, and less-than-optimal health—sound familiar? Take a few minutes for yourself every day. Incorporate as few or as many of the practices outlined below. Add other techniques that work for you to build your very own Go-To Self-Care Practices Tool Box!
1. Your Breath is Your Best Friend
Often ignored, each inhalation quickly merges into the next exhalation. Our breath offers valuable insights into our internal state. When we feel deeply relaxed, our breath flows smoothly and is barely audible. In contrast, shallow or quick breathing often indicates increased anxiety and stress. Take time to observe and connect with your breath. Learn to pause and adjust your breath; you will discover a wonderful lifelong friend and a gateway to a calmer state of being.
2. Try Journaling for Clear Intentions
Journaling is a cathartic and healing practice that nurtures:
- A deeper understanding of yourself and your experiences
- An unraveling of your thoughts
- A strong foundation for your intentions moving forward
Think of journaling as making an appointment with yourself. Allow your thoughts to coalesce and develop clarity. Creating a peaceful, sacred space is vital. Journaling helps you track where you are and connect with your deeper desires. When you feel clear and at ease, you can create space for positive outcomes. Be as creative as you like; use positive imagery, materials, and inspirational quotes. Above all, enjoy the process of self-exploration.
3. Honor Yourself – Stop the Comparisons
How often do you engage in negative self-talk? Do you berate yourself for falling short of unrealistic standards? It’s easier said than done, but we can all benefit from self-compassion. Yoga and wellness practices help us understand that we’re all on different paths. Our journeys and life lessons teach us to focus on our needs until we learn everything we can. Releasing comparisons frees up energy to concentrate on the self as a whole.
4. Practice Patience and Gratitude
Ease into your self-care practice. Take note of your accomplishments and remind yourself to be patient. Show gratitude for what you have achieved and who you are. Remember, building new habits takes time. Imagine yourself as a silent witness and observe without judgment. Don’t let your inner critic take hold. Keep an open mind and monitor situations that fuel unrealistic expectations. You might surprise yourself and learn a thing or two about yourself!
5. Incorporate Positive Affirmations
If you engage in negative self-talk, try positive affirmations. They help cultivate a positive state of mind. To make lasting changes, practice these affirmations regularly. Pick a phrase that motivates you, encourages positive changes, or boosts your self-esteem.