Self-Care

What is Self-Care?

Self-care is any action we take deliberately to better our health. When many people hear the term self-care, images of yoga and meditation spring to mind. While those are both great self-care practices, the concept extends far beyond those two activities.

Between classes, relationships, homework, clubs, midterms, family, and more... it can get difficult to keep up with everything while in college. With all that in mind, self-care becomes a vital practice that is best carried out proactively. Counseling Services advocates using Self-Care Anchors to keep up with your wellness over the course of the academic term.

Self-Care Anchors

A Self-Care Anchor is a small action that promotes long-term wellness when repeated daily. Anchors are different for everyone, and can vary widely based on the goals of the individual. 

For effective Anchors, focus on these 3 principles

• Simplicity: Anchors are about starting small. Don't set out to write a novel or run a marathon tomorrow, start with a sentence or a 10 minute walk.
• Intentionality: Pick Anchors for a reason that means something to you. Assign expected outcomes for each anchor to motivate and measure your progress. 
• Consistency: Self-care stability is built over time. Consistent action moves you toward your goals, while consistent inaction moves you further away.

If you are unsure what Anchors might be beneficial to you, take a look at these important areas of wellness. Try some of the Anchors below, or brainstorm other Anchors based on your needs.

• Physical Anchors: not hitting "snooze," drinking water instead of soda, and taking a 10 minute walk each day.
• Emotional Anchors: setting and maintaining boundaries, starting an emotion log or journal, and reinforcing a positive outlook.
• Academic Anchors: going to class even if late or unprepared, speaking at least once per class, and summarizing class notes 
• Social Anchors: contacting friends or family, saying hi to a stranger, and making time to be alone. 
• Environmental Anchors: cleaning one thing in your room/suite/living space, recycling, and volunteering for community or larger scale environmental efforts
• Financial Anchors: sticking with a budget, tracking your spending, and saving a small amount each day
• Spiritual Anchors: journaling your answers to life's big questions, praying or meditating on something important to you, and exploring the worldviews of other cultures.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, come to Counseling Services during business hours. After business hours call Campus Safety (309.341.7979) or call 9-1-1. Click Crisis Sessions for more information.