At first glance, you would think that self-care is a new trend. Contrary to popular belief, self-care is something that should be exercised regularly in our daily lives. This practice is extremely important to good well-being and state of happiness. However, given our demanding jobs and fast-paced society, some people are forgetting to practice self-care.

If you think you are one of those people, then no need to worry! We have prepared the ultimate self-care checklist to remind you of your self-care needs. Based on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, this checklist lists down everything that you need to do for the day.

Drink Water
The human body is made up of 80% water, so drinking water is a vital part of self-care. But drinking one cup of water is not enough; you need to drink at least eight cups of water to complete this self-care ritual. To avoid forgetting this task, you can use an app that reminds you to drink water at different times of the day.   

Eat Nutritious Foods
Along with drinking, maintain a healthy diet is also important for self-care. After all, your strength and energy are dependent on the nutrients being absorbed by your body. So, if you have a penchant for eating fast food or skipping meals, perhaps its time to quit those habits.

Exercise
You can never skip on exercise! Experts have long-found the benefits of exercise on the brain. Not only can exercise increase dopamine levels, but it also helps to generate new brain cells. However, you don’t need a hardcore exercise routine to keep your body and brain fit. Walking is enough to burn calories and improve your daily mood!  

Go outside 
 If you always feel cooped inside your dorm or your house, that might be your mind telling you to go outside. Another important part of daily self-care is taking time-off outdoors. Though you don’t need to go camping or mountain climbing; just stepping out of your house will do.

Sleep
If you have a habit of sleeping 3 – 5 hours a day, then it’s time to change routine! Experts stress the importance of adequate sleep as insufficient sleep causes irritability, mood changes, and the like. If you don’t want these problems, then it is highly recommended that you sleep for 7 - 9 hours.

More self-care practices
For some people, self-care isn’t just limited to making sure that you’ve met your basic needs. Others prefer to reward themselves for their hard work or to take a break from the bustling mundane life. If you’re one of these people, then we have another checklist for you!

Treat-yo-self Checklist 

• Listen to music
• Take vacation
• Meditate
• Get a massage
• Start a Journal

As you can see, this is only a working checklist. We want you to complete this checklist with all the things that you would like to do! After all, self-care practices are different for everyone. Each has its own needs and wants.

References:
https://www.brainmdhealth.com/blog/self-care-guide-how-to-put-yourself-first/
https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/10/internet-self-care/408580/

Contributed by: Allison Julianne Macasaet, a freelance writer on the side, a student of international relations on the other. Interests include fantasy books, international relations, and lifestyle.