Looking after yourself is a form of activism. When we are perpetually stressed we keep in line. When we are constantly overwhelmed we don’t have creative ideas, we run on fumes and have little left in the tank for the lightbulb moments that shake up the status quo.
When we prioritise resilience and wellbeing we bring ourselves to a state of clarity. We can develop ideas and strategies to shake things up, to push forward with game changing ideologies, to change the power dynamics that perpetuate inequality and injustice.
The not-for-profit sector needs resilience, clarity and wellness more than any other sector. The not-for-profit sector is doing the most powerful work in society, and we need you to be well to lead us all in the right direction.
It is not selfish to carry out regular self-care practices. Some may say it’s ‘soft’ or ‘woo woo’, but far too much evidence now points to the fact that when we look after ourselves we are healthier, more productive, creative and we can connect with others from a more open, kind place.
And so, here are 54 ways you can prioritise your wellbeing:
Yoga
Meditation
Jogging
Walking
Being in nature
Having a massage
TRE shaking therapy
Petting a dog
Laughing
Singing
Dancing
Hugging
Asking for, and receiving help
Painting
Cooking
Reading
Taking a bath
Travel
Swimming
Practicing gratitude
Giving yourself a permission slip
Practicing self-compassion exercises
Therapy
Coaching
Attending a talk
Attending a workshop
Drinking a smoothie
Eating anti-inflammatory foods
Climbing
Sewing
Knitting
Meeting friends
Writing
Journaling
Improvisation
Cycling
Drawing
Speaking to someone new
Watching sport with friends
Playing sport with friends
Getting good sleep
Taking naps
Gardening
Listening to music
Playing music
Being with pets
Having your back tickled
Buying yourself flowers
Having a meditative cup of tea
Relaxing your muscles
Unclenching your jaw
Breathing deeply
Doing nothing
Self-care is a priority not a luxury. You deserve to feel well, resourceful and clear so that you can forge forward in the game changing work that you do.
Go forth and be well,
Hannah and Team Bird
We are looking for people in the charity or public sectors to share their stories. If you have actively supported yourself with self-care practices in order to feel resilient and happy in your work we want to hear from you! Please email me to discuss further.
Photo by Ryan Jacques on Unsplash