Self-Care For Higher Self-Esteem

One of the most important things you can do for mind and body is take a break once in a while. That may mean taking time to stop and smell the roses or a more realistic approach--making it a mandatory part of your day. Why wouldn't you add self-care into your daily routine? Science shows it makes you more productive, reduces the stress that leads to debilitating and fatal illnesses and can make you instantly happier. Purposeful self-care is proven to build awareness to listening to your body and developing a better relationship with your self, which leads to higher self-esteem.

Who Has Time for Self-Care?

You do! In fact, you waste more time thinking about what to do or when to do it, when in fact self-care can take just seconds. It's the acct of noticing what you need and deserve in the moment, respecting your body and mind, and showing yourself love and kindnesses. Above all else, it's a mindful reminder that you are important and deserving of a little "me" time. The more you remind yourself of this, the more it will enhance your self-esteem.

Use these ideas for some simple self-care that takes just a few minutes:

S - snuggle with a furry friend or human - being close to someone who provides affection (licks from Fido count) increase oxytocin, the love hormone.

E - eat foods that you nourish you - notice what foods fuel your body and mind.

L -look at something beautiful - a picture or an image that makes you smile or inspires you, mindfully, for a minute.

F - funny clips, GIF's or images - laughing and smiling produce happy endorphins making it more likely you'll be in nicer to yourself and those around you.

C - create confident thoughts with affirmations - take a moment to look for inspiring and loving quotes or phrases, read them to yourself, and put them into your phone or place on your mirror.

A - allow yourself a little luxury - the towels you reserve for guests, use them for you, buy the nice bath salt, get a foot massage (more men are in spas than ever before) and treat your body with some love.

R - read a blog or book that inspires you or that you look forward to.

E - enjoy a warm beverage, a cup of tea or coffee - become mindful of little things throughout the day that feel good.

These little, loving acts thought the day can really make an improvement in your self-esteem. Making time, even a few minutes, shows your body and mind that you are worth it. What acts of self-care do you try to do daily? Please share your ideas and let us know what your favorite ideas are.

Take Good Care.

Emily is the author of Express Yourself: A Teen Girls Guide to Speaking Up and Being Who You Are.You can visit Emily’s Guidance Girl website. You can also find her on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter.