As Music Therapists, we are naturally empathetic and compassionate. It's easy to get so caught up in what others need that we forget about ourselves. Studies have shown that this could result in burnout, stress, fatigue, and more. This is why practicing self-care is so important. I personally have struggled with stress, anxiety, and depression for as long as I can remember. Over the years, I have learned how important it is to make myself a priority. I am not perfect, but it's something I'm now pretty good at (most of the time). Here are some of my favorite self-care practices.
Prayer and Meditation
Before I start my day, I need to start with prayer and meditation. Even if it's only for 5 minutes. It set's the tone for my whole day. Youtube is full of free guided meditations with music.
Exercise
Following meditation, I spend at least 20 minutes moving my body in some way. Usually this is by doing yoga. Not only does it give me a sense of accomplishment, but it releases endorphins in my body that increase positive feelings.
Healthy Diet
Full disclosure. This is one that I'm still working at. Our body and mind are so connected. When we feel bad in our body, it definitely affects our mind and emotions. In my experience, when I'm feeling poorly in my body, I don't have the motivation, stamina, or even the same level of positivity as I do when I'm choosing healthy foods.
Essential Oils
I use essential oils every day. They help with emotional regulation, physical well-being, and mental acuity. In addition to using them topically in the morning, I diffuse them at night to help me wind down.
Pampering
Sundays are my pampering day. I do a face-mask, hair-mask, and do my nails. Pampering myself is one of the ways I show myself love. It reminds me that I am important and deserve this time. I need reminded of that a lot.
Journaling
This is one that's really new to me. As in the past 6 days new. I've been journaling about my day every night before going to bed. I've never considered myself much of a journal person but I've found that it really helps me process my feelings. As a music therapist, this is so helpful. Instead of carrying those feelings in my heart and shelving them indefinitely, I'm getting them all out on paper. I like to imagine it shooting straight out of my heart and onto the paper. This was suggested to me by a good friend who happens to be an Art Therapist. Which brings me to my next self-care tactic.
Spending time with the people I love
I need, I repeat, NEED to be connected to the ones I love. Family and Friends. It edifies my soul and fills my heart. Whether it's being silly, having heart-to-hearts, or simply sitting in each other's presence, nothing is better than to love and be loved. This looks a little different in out current climate. Thank goodness for FaceTime and Zoom!
Songwriting
Songwriting is not only one of my favorite things to do in Music Therapy, but also for myself. So often I am busy learning and creating music for the benefit of others. It feels so great to create music with no agenda other than enjoying myself.
So there you have it! My self-care routine in a nutshell. Did you see anything you might try? What are some ways you practice self-care? I would love to hear from you! Leave a comment below or on my Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/chordsofcompassionllc/.
Talk to you soon,
Hannah
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