Self care goals
We are getting further into 2021 and this year is becoming an opportunity for self-care. The world is imperfect but we can set goals for ourselves. This isn't about transforming yourself. You are already great. This is not about superficial appearances. 2021 could be an opportunity to further explore self-care (or start if you haven't already).
Last year, the pandemic put the world into isolation. Some quarantining individuals may have discovered their real selves and ways to nurture the body, mind and soul. Many people simply needed to survive. Basic needs were the focus for a portion of the population in such unpredictable times. If you are still in survival mode, there is hope. 2021 has to get better eventually - maybe when a vaccine arrives, when restrictions ease or when an unexpected miracle happens. We will see. Wherever you are in your journey, I hope these self-care goals may bring light in 2021.
These self-care techniques are my own personal preferences for healing my body, mind and soul. I am not an expert in these practices. They are simply widely known to benefit individuals in diverse ways.
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Establish a routine for meditation and yoga
Wherever you are, if you have an internet connection or a person who can guide your practice, you can try to meditate. Also try yoga if you feel ready. Yoga could be done on any comfortable floor surface. I actually prefer to experience yoga outside on the soft ground. If you don't feel ready for yoga, at least start meditating. It can change everything.
Meditate at home or anywhere for mindfulness and calmness. Image: iStock.
If you do not already have a meditation routine, and do not yet prefer an exact style, I would suggest trying different methods of meditation to know what suits you. Face-to-face meditation groups could possibly meet in particular local areas. However, government rules may change how they meet and practice due to COVID-19. Other resources include Headspace, Abide and the many demonstrations on Youtube. There are free guides for meditation. Once you know how to meditate, it can be practiced (ideally in a quiet space) at home. Yoga is definitely worth a try in 2021 for those who have not yet started. Yoga is about more than poses. I actually avoid or alter any moves that feel uncomfortable. I currently choose short yoga sessions because that's how I cope. Don't worry about advanced poses if you don't feel ready. In my understanding, the physical moves are like a vehicle to reach the destination of spiritual clarity. It is more important to calmly focus on the present moment instead of feeling sore. I understand yoga as a way to connect to the body, the self and a higher power. There is a greater purpose through meaningful yoga practice. I was more interested in yoga after realising it is for anyone.
Eat more diverse plants
Let's consume more varieties of fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, legumes, nuts and seeds. I am not a dietician. It is a suggestion based on the known benefits of plants. Simple changes may bring extra plant foods into meals, snacks and drinks. If you start with a basic dry pasta and organic pre-made pasta sauce, mix in leafy greens. Mix seeds into the normal jar of nut butter for extra goodness. When eating a soft fruit such as mango, mix chunks in a bowl with oats and seeds. Experiment with ingredients for blended drinks. A diverse range of plants can help when trying to feel refreshed.
Vegan whole plant based foods, iStock.
Almost anyone can eat more whole plants even on a strict budget. I shall admit, this depends on the location. Get the cheap fresh produce. My new ideal routine involves a bulk box of organic produce from the local co-op. It may be cheaper than buying individual organic foods retail. However, some produce box services are only delivered on particular days. Otherwise, there are more ways to afford whole plant foods. They could be from a bargain bin at the fruit and veg shop, bundles of 'odd' foods at the supermarket or from smaller local sellers. Some individuals even sell fruits and vegetables on Facebook Marketplace. Try growing some plant foods as they will be kind of free. Herbs are apparently easier. Don't let cost get in the way of eating your way to wellness.
If you can't find inexpensive fresh produce, or if you need more long term supplies anyway, preserve more vegetables and fruits at home. Keep an eye out for a second hand freezer if you need more space. Freezing could also extend the life of fresh foods. Find bulk dry foods. Even better, dry your own foods in a dehydrator. Fermentation and pickling are also meant to keep foods good for a long time. There are ways to extend the life of healthy foods by weeks or months.
I like to mix the super specialty foods with basics to feel more fulfilled. Enjoy some wild rice with humble black beans. Sprinkle a bit of hemp onto a dish of pasta. Blend nutritional yeast into a plant based cheesy sauce. Whichever diet your currently have, try a variety of plants to hope for a vibrant life.
Connect with nature
Nature is powerful in the journey towards mindfulness and beyond. When the COVID rules are more generous, embrace that opportunity to experience the wonders of this planet's natural beauty. When required to stay around home, bring a bit of nature into the home and have gratitude for any natural blessings that are already present.
If you can travel further from home, have a socially distanced visit to the water or the trees (or both). Salty air is refreshing. Leafy trees waft aromas through the air. Remember to try mindfulness when experiencing natural surroundings. In my previous neighbourhood, most people walked along the sand in what appeared to be laps or defined routes. They walked up. They walked down. Walking is great. Stillness is also important. Try sitting still in a trusted space and sense the subtleties of nature.
If you live near an abundance of natural environment, find new ways to connect with nature. Either travel to a new place or appreciate and connect with aspects of your surroundings. I started reviving my skin with aloe vera plants. Even opening a window, there is greater opportunity to breathe in the fresh air. Be with nature however you can.
Self care and safe connection in 2021
Life continues to look quite different in comparison to the pre-COVID world. Many people tried self-care in 2020. However, the pandemic caused struggles at the same time. 2021 is the time to adjust with a new reality and hopefully rebuild.
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