Prioritising self-care for wellbeing and productivity

Taking time for self-care is not just a luxury, it's a necessity. It is crucial for maintaining both mental and physical health, which in turn enhances productivity and overall life satisfaction.

Self-care involves intentional actions to look after your physical, mental, and emotional health. It's about recognising the need for rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. According to a study by YouGov, 24% of UK adults engage in daily self-care practices, which underscores its growing importance in our daily routines. A web-based survey conducted by the Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, involving adults from UK, the USA, Australia, and Japan, found that the prevalence of self-care was highest in Japan (54.9%), followed by the UK (43.1%), the USA (42.5%), and Australia (40.4%).

But are we all doing enough? The corporate mental health alliance, Australia’s leading workplace survey reported in 2023 that 44 per cent of employees are experiencing some level of burnout.

Why self-care matters

Self-care is essential for preventing burnout and maintaining a high quality of life. It's especially important for those in demanding jobs or caretaking roles, as it helps to manage stress and maintain a balanced life. The World Health Organisation emphasises the role of self-care in health promotion, disease prevention, and healthcare cost reduction.

Key elements of self-care

• Physical health: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are foundational to good health. Simple activities like walking or light exercise can significantly boost your mood and energy levels.

• Mental health: Mental self-care includes practices like mindfulness, meditation, and setting aside time for hobbies. These activities help reduce stress and improve cognitive function.

• Emotional wellbeing: Building strong emotional health involves nurturing relationships, setting boundaries, and engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment.

Practical self-care strategies for you

• Set boundaries: Learn to say no to additional commitments that may overextend you. This protects your time and energy for essential self-care activities.

• Schedule downtime: Dedicate specific times in your day for rest and relaxation. This can be as simple as a daily walk or a few minutes of deep breathing exercises.

• Connect with others: Social connections are vital. Spend time with family and friends, and don't hesitate to reach out for support when needed.

• Mindfulness practices: Incorporate mindfulness or meditation into your routine. This can help you stay grounded and manage stress more effectively.

Strategies to implement within your teams

• Recognising signs of burnout: Identifying symptoms early can help in taking timely action to prevent further mental health decline.

• Work-life balance: Encouraging a healthy balance between work responsibilities and personal time is crucial. Flexible working hours and remote work options can significantly improve this balance.

• Support systems: Building strong support networks within the workplace can enhance overall wellbeing. This includes having access to Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) and peer support groups.

• Professional development: Opportunities for continuous learning and development can empower your team and enhance their job satisfaction and mental health.

Investing in self-care is investing in your future wellbeing and productivity. By prioritising your health and taking proactive steps to care for yourself, you can navigate life's challenges more effectively and enjoy a higher quality of life.

For more insights and strategies on maintaining wellbeing and mental health and reducing burnout within your teams, contact us today.

References:
https://business.yougov.com/content/50089-stress-reduction-and-mental-well-being-are-key-motivators-for-britons-practicing-self-care
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5381426/#:~:text=The%20results%20showed%20that%20the,%2C%20and%20Australia%20(40.4%25).
https://lsj.com.au/articles/the-case-for-taking-self-care-seriously/
https://defradigital.blog.gov.uk/2023/07/24/why-its-important-for-me-to-make-time-for-self-care/
https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2024/06/24/default-calendar/self-care-month-2024