Treating Yourself with Kindness

By: Nishka

June 23, 2021

Hand holding a card that reads "Kindess. Pass it on." and the ocean in the background.

Times can get rough, and it’s easy to get caught up in everything around you. This is why it’s important to maintain mindfulness and treat yourself with kindness. During my past year at Ryerson, I explored a lot of self-care techniques and figured out what works best for me. Hopefully, some of these tactics will help you in your self-care journey.

Journaling

Person writing into a notebook, with papers, books and coffee on table

The thing with journaling is that you can get so creative with it. Some people like to have separate journals for separate things, but for myself, one is enough. Each page can be something different. When you’re feeling down you can write down how you’re feeling on one page, and on the other you can record a fond memory you have. It’s a great form of gathering your thoughts, and the options are endless!

Meditation (external link)

Person meditating with their legs crossed

When you start off meditating it’s important to do it for a short period of time and work your way up to longer durations because you might be a little restless at first. You need to find a nice calm and quiet place where you can focus and can sit up straight with crossed legs or even lay down. I personally find laying down makes me want to fall asleep. The key to meditation is concentrating on your breath. If your mind wanders you should acknowledge it and bring your attention back to your breathing. Adding meditating to your daily rituals will definitely be a game-changer.

Stay active

Three women in athletic attire, working out in a room with woga mats

Keeping your body active not only keeps you healthy but also makes you happier. When you take part in physical activity your body releases its natural endorphins. These are neurotransmitters that make you happy and uplift your mood. I always try to do an exercise routine every day or go on hikes to stay active. There are so many different ways to get exercise, so what you’d like to try is up to you.

Have a clean environment

Desk that contain laptop, notebook, glasses, poster and a lamp

I can’t tell you how often I’ve been in a slump and moped around in my messy bedroom. The environment that surrounds you has a huge impact on you. That’s why it’s important to develop a habit to keep everything clean and tidy.

Listening to music

Younge male looking at their phone with headphones on.

I’m always listening to music, so it’s a huge part of my daily routine. The music I listen to usually reflects how I’m feeling or influences how I will feel. I think of music as a type of self-care— when I need a mood-booster, I listen to songs that’ll make me feel happy. I highly recommend creating an uplifting playlist (external link) of your own, because you’ll never know when you’ll need that extra push.

These are just some of the things I do to treat myself with kindness. I hope they inspire you to do the same.

Be good to yourself.

“See” you soon!

– Nishka