Self-care practices that support overall mental health and aid in eating disorder recovery
The National Institute of Mental Health defines self-care as “taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health”. Self-care is a crucial part of eating disorder recovery. It helps you connect with your body, heart, mind, and spirit, while also giving you mental clarity, peace, and energy. This can feel difficult or uncomfortable for those struggling with eating disorders, however, it is crucial to take time to practice self-love and compassion during recovery.
Self-care looks different for everyone because it involves what you enjoy and can do to take care of yourself. It can be as simple as cuddling up and watching a good movie or taking a bath. There is certainly no right or wrong but it is important to determine what self-care is to you, as well as some activities that work for you.
There are Four Pillars of Self-Care, which will be defined below, this will allow you to identify what might be helpful for you or new activities to try!
Physical Self-care
- This type of self-care focuses on the body. You might think this only involves exercise, which it does, but it also includes food, stretching, breathing exercises, sleep, and massages. All of which improve your health and well-being by including both movement and relaxation activities.
Emotional Self-care
- This focuses on keeping your heart happy and focusing on your feelings. It is important to learn to identify your feelings and to address them without judgment. This will allow you to better connect with yourself and others, as well as reduce stress. Some activities you can include here are:
- Spending time with loved ones
- Exercise boundaries
- Do things that make you happy and help you stay positive
Mental Self-care
- This involves taking care of the mind, which has a significant impact on both our emotional and physical health. Activities in this pillar involve avoiding stress, and anxiety. Some things you can include in your routine to improve your mental health are:
- Avoiding negative self-talk, instead, challenge those thoughts and focus on self-compassion and self-love. Remember you can control your mind, it doesn’t control you!
- Read books or listen to podcasts about mental health or topics you enjoy
- Listen to uplifting or relaxing music
- Exercise boundaries and know when to say “no”, especially when you need time for yourself
- Journaling
Spiritual Self-care
- This focuses on connection with your higher self and your spirit. This doesn’t necessarily need to involve religion, instead, it is a way to connect with your true self. This involves meditation, prayer, expressing gratitude, and spending time in nature.
