Self-Care

Self care is very important to us as humans. The way we take care of ourselves can determine how well we live life. If we get to live life to the fullest. Self care should be intentional and done consistently. Our physical, mental, emotional and psychological health is very important so we must try as much as possible to take care of ourselves.

We can take care of our body the way we eat, exercise, the habits we form over time, the things we take into our bodies. This will help us to be fit and healthy. Not forgetting proper hygiene, mental rest and even social activities. All these attributes to self-care. The habits and steps we take to improve or maintain our being or body is what we call self care.

Do I practice self-care?

Follow me as I answer these wonderful questions by @graceleon

I wouldn’t say daily, but I try to stay active at least five times a week. I play football twice a week which helps to keep me fit and healthy. Most days except Sundays and Fridays, I exercise early in the morning. I do jumping jacks, sit ups, squats, mountain climbing, russian twist and mostly press-ups etc. This helps me keep fit and also improves my mental and physical health.

Honestly, I usually go to the doctor only when I’m really sick or something feels off. Routine checkups aren’t yet part of my lifestyle, but I know they’re important and I hope to make them a regular thing as soon as I can afford it consistently. I do wish to go for routine check-ups to know about my health more. I know this will help me keep track of my health.

I average around 6 to 7 hours a night. Sometimes less, but I always try to achieve 6-7 hours of sleep. Some times I do sleep 5 hours but rarely do I sleep 4 hours. In the area of sleep, I think I do my best to care for my body and brain. I sleep also in the afternoons for 1-2 hours when I am back from work. This makes me feel relaxed from the day's work before I start reading and doing other home chores.

No, I don’t smoke or use drugs. I also don’t drink alcohol. I try to keep my habits clean because I believe they affect both physical and mental health. I have never smoked before and wouldn't even want to try it. I have cut off some friends because they smoked and were heavy drinkers. Just like it is said that bad company corrupts good manners, I trim off such friends.

Yes, I do want that. I may not eat fruits and veggies every day, but I’m conscious of it and trying to eat more natural and healthy meals when possible. In Nigeria we plant a lot of natural foods. We eat more of vegetables in our soups and I try to eat much of it when I can. But I don't eat fruits everyday. I am doing my best to balance it so that I can take more of the vitamins and have a balanced diet.

Maybe once or twice a week. Sometimes it’s convenient or tempting, but I’m aware of the effects, so I try not to overdo it. I haven't had any carbonated drink in the last three months. I drink only water. I have reduced a lot of junk food this year. But I still take a little of bread and biscuits once or twice a week.

Yes, I do. I bathe daily, brush my teeth regularly, and keep my nails trimmed. I’m not very deep into skincare routines, but I try to stay neat and clean. I bathe twice daily, keep my underwear clean every time I take them off. I brush twice a day, I clean my tongue too. Sometimes I whisked my mouth with coconut oil and cloves to help with bacteria. My oral health is very important to me. I love keeping my nails short and this is because I play a lot of football which doesn't allow keeping long nails.

Not officially, but I do have a few people I look up to, who give me guidance from time to time. I’ve also considered getting a counselor someday when the time and resources align. I just prefer talking to my friend who acts as a mentor to me. I talk to my mom also. She is a mentor to me. She advises me on what to do and what not to do.

Not very often. It depends on my schedule and mood. Sometimes I isolate myself, but I understand the value of connection and try to be more intentional about it. I go out with my best friend to stroll and to have a good time out. While doing this, she helps to talk to me and keep me company whilst we have fun. It is always great being in her company.

Not actively, but I do pick up articles, short reads, or motivational content online. I’m planning to start a good book soon to get back into the habit. I was reading a great book at the beginning of the year but I haven't finished it. I will go back to finishing it.

I would say I’m on the journey. I care about myself and my future, so I do what I can with what I have. But yes, I know I could improve in some areas especially routine check-ups, better diet, and more mental rest. I’m a work in progress. I do hope to improve on taking care of my self.

I invite @ujunwa01, @imohmitch and @onlyonefave to participate in this contest.