By – Josephine Agbonkhese

While your looks may be enhanced by the myriad of beauty products in your arsenal, you most likely cannot truly maintain a sense of wellness and true beauty if nurturing your mind, body, and soul do not become part of your daily life.

In todays fast-paced world, embracing self-care has become more important than ever.
Follow these tips for self-care practices you can imbibe to feel at your best. Remember to schedule suitable times for them and stay consistent.

Build a morning routine
There are benefits to building a morning routine you can keep; one with a typical wake time, a healthy breakfast, and exercises like yoga or stretching, is a great idea. In fact, experts say having a more intentional approach to the day early on, can help instill self-confidence and lead to a more productive rest of the day.
Include activities that nourish your mind, such as journaling and moments of reflection or meditation.

Build a relaxation ritual
In the midst of busy schedules, it is important to carve out time for relaxation. Cultivate a relaxation ritual that allows you to unwind and recharge. It might be reading a book, listening to your favourite music, or watching a movie. For some people with really tight schedule, this could be merely spending time with loved ones as it is, for them, a rare opportunity.

Eat right
Make meal-time special. Eat a wide range of foods to make sure your body is receiving all the nutrients it needs. For calories, choose higher fibre or wholegrain varieties of starchy foods, such as wholewheat pasta, brown rice or potatoes with their skins on. Keep an eye on the fats you add when you are cooking. Eat at least five portions of a variety of fruits and vegetables every day. Eat more fish; especially oily fishes as they are high in Omega-3. Cut down on saturated fats and sugar, and then eat less salt. Drink water always.

Create bath routine
A luxurious self-care bath can be an incredible way to relax and relieve stress. Time a bath appropriately, preferably night, and ensure you have no outstanding to-do. Remember, much like timing, your bath-time mindset matters. So, shut off your mind from all stressors. Ensure the water is neither hot nor cold and, importantly, incorporate skincare such as adding some essential oils to your water, putting on a face mask or exfoliating. Finish up with some moisturising body lotion. You can light some candles and keep your mind occupied with some entertainment while at it.

Exercise
Exercise releases endorphins; hormones that make you feel good. It also sharpens focus and aids sleep. Staying physically active also lessens the risk of mood disorders, increases energy, and improves mood overall. It also helps lower your risk of chronic health issues.
Schedule time and days for regular body workouts and ensure you stay consistent.

Prioritise sleep
Sleep is vital for the well-being of your mind, body, and soul. Scientists also say sleep is one of the top ways to keep stress in check. Finally, the brain needs sleep to function; without it, you will be less patient and focused, make poor decisions, and be more moody, irritable, and emotional.
Establish a consistent sleep routine and create a sleep-friendly environment by keeping your bedroom dark, cool, and free from distractions.
You can also engage in calming activities before bed, such as reading a book or practicing gentle stretches to prepare your mind.