Self care

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Self-Care: My Honest Lifestyle Check

Self-care is a big word that gets thrown around a lot these days. Everywhere you turn, people are talking about gym routines, skincare products, therapy sessions, diet plans and all sorts of routines. But for me, self-care is not just what people show on social media. It’s the small things you do (or don’t do) daily to protect your peace, your body, and your sanity. And if I’m being completely honest, I know I still have a lot to fix.

This post isn’t coming from someone who has everything figured out. It’s just me doing a little self-check, looking at my lifestyle and where I’m falling short. Hopefully, it’ll help me reflect and maybe encourage someone else to take better care of themselves too.

Physical Activity: Almost Zero

Let me start with this sports or any form of regular physical activity is currently not in my life. I’m not proud of it, but it’s the truth. I don’t jog, I don’t skip, I don’t hit the gym. Sometimes I tell myself I’ll start tomorrow, but that “tomorrow” never seems to come. The most exercise I get these days is walking around school, climbing stairs, or rushing to class. I know it’s not enough, and my body deserves more movement than that. I just haven’t made it a priority yet.

Doctor Visits: Rare, but I Google Symptoms a Lot

I hardly go to the hospital. It’s not that I think I’m immune to sickness, but I usually wait until I feel something really strange before I even consider going. And even then, my first instinct is to check online. I can’t count how many times I’ve searched things like “sharp pain on left side of stomach” or “why am I feeling dizzy.” It’s not the best habit, I know, because the internet can confuse you more than help. But it’s what I do. Routine checkups? Not yet in my budget or routine.

Sleep: A Bit Scattered, But Not Too Bad

I sleep around six to seven hours on average, though there are nights when I go to bed very late and still wake up early for class. I wouldn’t say my sleep is always restful. Sometimes I toss and turn, other times I stay up scrolling through my phone for no good reason. I know I should drop my phone earlier and take sleep more seriously, because when I’m well-rested, everything feels better. I’m not the worst at sleeping, but I could definitely improve my sleep hygiene.

Harmful Habits: Thankfully, None

This is one area I’m grateful for I don’t smoke, I don’t drink alcohol, and I don’t use drugs. I’ve never even tried any of them. I guess it’s partly how I was raised and partly my own choice to stay away from anything that could ruin my health or peace of mind. I’ve seen people lose themselves to addiction, and I honestly don’t want that for myself.

Diet: Junk Food is My Everyday Struggle

Let me just say it junk food is a constant part of my life, especially in school. From meat pies to soda, chips, sugary snacks, and instant noodles, I eat them almost every single day. Sometimes it’s because I’m in a hurry, other times because I don’t have the strength to cook or the money to buy a proper balanced meal. I know my body deserves better fruits, vegetables, proper meals but right now, I’m just surviving. It’s not ideal, and I know I need to work on it, especially if I want to stay healthy in the long run.

Personal Hygiene: Not Perfect, But I Try

Even though I don’t follow any fancy skincare routine, I do maintain basic hygiene. I bathe every day sometimes twice if it’s been a stressful or sweaty day. I brush my teeth morning and night, and I make sure my nails are trimmed when they start looking rough. I believe in looking clean and smelling fresh. I may not use face masks or scrubs or expensive products, but I make sure I’m not walking around dirty or unkempt.

Mentorship: None, Really

I don’t have a pastor, a therapist, or a counselor I talk to. I don’t even have that one person I sit with for regular deep conversations about my life. I do most of my thinking in my head. Sometimes I journal, sometimes I pray in my heart, but mostly, I just try to figure things out on my own. It can get overwhelming, and I know it would be nice to have someone to guide me through certain phases of life. But for now, I just take it one day at a time.

Social Life: Small but Steady

I’m not exactly a social butterfly, but I do go out with friends once in a while. School can be draining, and sometimes, just sitting with friends to laugh, gist, or walk around the campus makes a big difference. I like people who bring peace not drama so I keep my circle small and try to stay connected without losing myself.

Books: Yes, Always

Reading has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. Whether it’s a novel, a short story, or something motivational, I always have something I’m reading. Books help me escape reality, reflect on life, and sometimes even find answers. Reading is definitely one of the healthiest self-care habits I have.

Final Thoughts: I’m a Work in Progress

So, do I practice self-care? In some areas, yes. In others, not at all. But the point of this whole check is not to judge myself, but to acknowledge where I am and where I need to be. Self-care is not a one-time activity. It’s a lifestyle. And while I may not have it all together, I’m learning, I’m growing, and I’m trying.

If you’re reading this and seeing yourself in some of these habits, just know you’re not alone. We don’t have to be perfect. We just need to be intentional.

The photos are that of my friend I loved them ❤️
Inviting my friends @ukpono @zory23 @onlyonefave