Self-Care Sunday: Daily Practices

At MHC, we understand that self-care is a deeply personal journey, with individual needs and approaches varying widely. However, one thing remains universal: the more tools you have in your toolkit, the better prepared you’ll be to access those tools as a means of prevention and intervention before reaching the point of distress. We also recognize the importance of self-care in bolstering our resilience and coping mechanisms. That’s why this year, we are leveraging our expertise and focusing our efforts on learning from our staff and community partners. 

Today, we’re shining a spotlight on daily practices as vital tools for self-care, echoing the wise words of Traci, a Yoga In Our City (YIOC) teacher, who reminds us, “Self-care should not be considered a reward for hard work. It isn’t something you should feel you have to earn, nor is it something to feel selfish about. Self-care is a necessity. It should be a priority.” 

John Woods, Education and Training Coordinator at MHC, shares his personal insights into the daily rituals that contribute to his mental well-being. Despite the demands of work, family, and friends, John emphasizes the importance of making time for oneself. Here are some of the activities he incorporates into his daily and weekly routines: 

Rest: John listens to his body and prioritizes rest, going to bed early when needed, as he typically wakes up each day around 6 AM. 

Music: He listens to music several times a day, adjusting his playlist based on his emotional needs, whether it’s uplifting tunes to combat a low mood or calming melodies to unwind. 

Connection: John makes an effort to connect with family or friends, even through simple gestures like sending a text to let them know he’s thinking of them. This helps him stay connected and fosters a sense of community. 

Nature: He makes time to take a walk outside or simply be in nature, even if it’s just for a few minutes. The change in surroundings helps energize him and provides a sense of appreciation for the natural world. 

Hygiene: John finds that brushing his teeth in the afternoon not only promotes dental care but also leaves him feeling refreshed and energized, without relying on caffeine. 

Quality Time: Spending time with loved ones, including his dog Moose, reminds him of what’s truly important for his overall mental health and well-being. 

These simple yet effective practices demonstrate the power of incorporating self-care into our daily lives. By prioritizing our own well-being, we’re better equipped to navigate life’s challenges and support those around us. Let’s make self-care a priority today and every day. 

To further support your self-care journey, we’re excited to announce our collaboration with Yoga in Our City for #SelfCareSunday throughout May. YIOC, a program that began in Hartford, Connecticut, has grown into a statewide initiative that promotes community well-being. Subscribe to @yogainourcity for livestream and recorded classes all summer long and mark your calendars for May 18th when YIOC returns to parks near you. 

This year, MHC invited Connecticut residents to demonstrate their self-love through our #LetsFaceIt campaign. A donation to the #LetsFaceIt campaign is an investment in the safe and welcoming environments for those we serve and it’s an investment in our future.