Self-care is a valuable component of mental health, especially for women in addiction recovery. Taking time for yourself, even if it’s only for a few minutes, can help you remain calmer and more collected. Keeping an even keel is critical if you hope to stay motivated and prevent a relapse. With that in mind, here are six easy ways you can incorporate self-care into your daily routine.

1. Eat Mindfully

Often, we eat our meals while we’re working or watching TV, thus denying ourselves the full sensory experience of food. Treat yourself with more respect, and allow yourself to indulge in a distraction-free meal where the food is the sole focus. The concept of mindful eating refers to a practice of eating slowly, engaging with the textures, flavors, colors and smells of what’s on your plate. As a bonus, becoming more consciously aware of your food helps you avoid overeating.

2. Celebrate Your Accomplishments

While most people benefit from keeping a to-do list – and the satisfying feeling of crossing things off when you’ve finished them – how often do you automatically move on to the next item on your list without stopping to congratulate yourself for your productivity? At the end of each day, make a list of all the productive things you’ve done. Whether you contributed creative ideas to a brainstorming meeting at work, or folded and put away all your laundry, pat yourself on the back for a job well done.

3. Be Thankful

Addiction causes you to lose things, from your friends to your health. Part of recovery means being grateful for what you have. Keep a notebook or writing pad by your bed, and every night before you go to sleep, jot down at least one thing you feel thankful to have.

4. Let Your Inner Child out to Play

You may tell yourself that you’ve outgrown childhood hobbies, but the joyous, adventurous little person you once were is still there somewhere inside you. Whether your favorite activity was wading in the creek and catching frogs or making necklaces out of wild clover, allow yourself to return to those happier days. If you have a child of your own, you can have extra fun introducing them to these hobbies.

5. Get Lost in a Good Book

Reading a book you love is a wonderful way to feel happy and escape from the world for a while. Whether you start a new book a friend recommended you, or fall into an old favorite, there is something inherently meditative about the act of reading.

6. Do a Digital Detox

There are many merits of social media. You can use it to keep up with the news, connect with relatives who live far away or even find a new job opportunity. However, there are also many advantages of unplugging and stepping away from the scroll for a day or two. After all, many social media sites are a source of negativity because people post hurtful comments or use it to brag about their accomplishments. If you take a break from social media, you can become more focused and in the moment.

Be Your Best Self

At Canyon Crossing, our unique programming helps women discover the joy that comes with being sober and free from drug and alcohol addictions. We are here for you when you’re ready to change your life for the better. Contact us today to learn more.