Every time January rolls around, everyone seems to be filled with this newfound sense of motivation. “New year, new you,” is all over social media as you scroll and scroll and scroll. People are talking about getting physically and mentally healthy, being more social, and starting new hobbies on top of their daily routine. This seems like a great idea, yet also seems quite overwhelming. “Is this why they have the same resolutions every year?” you think to yourself. Well, yes. Your self care plan needs to be built by you for you. Don’t set goals for yourself that you got from someone else just because it worked for them. In this blog, we will figure out how to organize and prioritize your self-care intentions for the new year. Focus on balance and prevent burnout before Spring rolls around!
What Counts as Purposeful Self-Care?
What do you do for yourself on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis that makes you feel good? Many people today consider taking a minute to scroll online, buying something you’ve been wanting for a while, or even just treating yourself to a fancy coffee as “self-care.” And sure, these things can bring us some dopamine, but are they purposeful? If you create a habit out of these tasks, will they meet your foundational needs? In other words, do they positively affect your mood, nourish you, provide connection, and/or help you handle stress in a healthy manner?
You don’t have to buy all of these self-care products that everyone is trying to sell you. Meditation, journaling, going for a walk, meeting with friends, and even getting a massage are all some purposeful self-care habits you can try. Next, let’s talk about how to know what to focus on and how to create your own self-care plan.
What Areas of Your Life Need the Most Balance?
Trying to figure out where to start with self-care can be a little nerve wracking. Our suggestion? Audit yourself. What area of your life is creating the most tension for you at the moment? Is it something physical, mental, emotional, or social? If it’s more than one of those areas, don’t stress, you can figure it out and get back on track!
If you aren’t sure where to begin, you could take the next week or so to try and find your pain points. Every time you notice something you want to change or improve, write it down. Next week, assess your list. You didn’t sleep well? Take a walk during the day and create an evening “wind down routine.” You felt lonely? Schedule time with family and friends, whether over the phone or in person somewhere. Did you just feel mentally “funky?” Grab a book, start a new TV show, or find another new mentally stimulating hobby to start.
Creating Your Self-Care Plan
Once you determine what you want to start working on, just start improving little by little each week. Set goals, but don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t reach them. Self-care is not a race! Remember that challenges are normal, progress is not linear, and take small steps, especially in the beginning.
If you are struggling to approach each aspect of your self-care plan on your own, it’s okay to reach out for help. Reach out to friends, family, employers, mental health professionals, or…
May We Suggest: Start With Massage
How about start with a massage? No matter what type of balance you are seeking in life, massage is a great place to start. There are so many physical, mental, emotional, and social benefits of massage! Whether you are looking to manage your blood pressure, become a better athlete, or even just feel better about yourself and be more connected to your body. What better way to start than by tackling multiple stressors at once!
Our massage therapist, Jeremy, can get you on the right track to the self-care plan that your mind, body, and soul are craving. Come see us today and let’s make 2026 your year!