Your Health in Action: 5 Self-Care Practices for Introverts
Whenever I tell people that I’m an introvert, they are often a little taken aback. “But you aren’t awkward in social situations!” they protest. Others think that I’m being self-deprecating, and respond with a concerned “Awwww, I don’t think you’re an introvert at all,” as if trying to comfort me.
The thing is, I don’t consider introversion to be a flaw by any means. Nor do I equate being an introvert with lacking communication or social skills. Being an introvert simply means that I draw my energy from within, rather than from other people, and that in order to recharge, I need time alone.
I work in business development, where my job is to cultivate relationships, spread brand awareness, and — on some days — talk to literally hundreds of people in the course of a few hours. I absolutely love what I do, and am so happy to have a job that introduces me to so many interesting people. But when the weekend rolls around, I can’t wait to take a little time to myself.
For all of my fellow introverts living in an extroverted world, it’s important to take care of yourself and your overall health. Let’s delve into five self-care practices that all introverts should implement into their lives!
1. Prioritize time to yourself at home.
This may seem like a no-brainer, but if you’re a chronic over-committer like me, it might be easier said than done. Remind yourself that it’s okay to say no sometimes and stay in! When you know you need the time to yourself, take it. Whether you use that time to curl up with a book, listen to your favorite podcast, or plunge into a mindless Netflix binge is completely up to you. If you get through the entire second season of Master of None in one weekend, I promise I won’t judge!
2. Go out in public by yourself.
Go for a walk. Visit an art museum. Go to the movies! It can feel socially unacceptable to do these things alone, but incredibly energizing once you finally do. Get used to doing some things by yourself. One of my favorite memories from last year was when I visited Leu Gardens on my own. I loved spending time in nature and taking in all of the beauty that the botanical gardens had to offer. Doing this by myself added an almost meditative element to the experience.
3. Find your creative outlet.
For me, that’s writing — and yes, I am the cliché girl in the coffee shop putting pen to paper. What can I say? It makes me happy! I also love coloring and attempting to play keyboard when I need to unwind.
4. Turn off electronics.
This is an area where I truly struggle, but it can make a world of difference. Thanks to smartphones and social media, we are constantly connected to something. I challenge you to disconnect. Switch your phone to do not disturb after a certain time at night. Better yet, turn off your devices and soak in the time to yourself.
5. Listen to your body and give it what it needs.
Make sure you are getting enough sleep, and eat the foods that truly nourish you. Maybe your body is craving physical activity to de-stress, or perhaps diffusing essential oils will do the trick. Make your health a priority — without that, how can you do all of the amazing things you do? 🙂
Any of my fellow introverts in the house? Share your favorite self-care practices in the comments section below!
