5 Basic Ways to Practice Self-Care to Navigate Daily Problems

Credit: Bonface Omiti

In our daily lives, we often face a series of situations that require us to navigate through a complex web of decisions and actions. Consequently, we make plans, set goals, and create blueprints for our future. On a larger scale, we organize our lives around our aspirations, dreams, and responsibilities. For instance, you may choose to pursue education, a career, and/or relationships.

Each aspiration, dream, or responsibility comes with its own set of demands. These demands require compromises, as life often throws unexpected challenges our way.

When seeking fulfillment in our personal and professional lives, we must strive to balance the inevitable trade-offs. This forces us to adapt and recalibrate our plans.

Life places us in situations where we structure our days with routines and rituals that set the tone for the day and help us unwind and reflect in the evening. We cultivate habits of self-care and self-reflection, nurturing our physical, mental, and emotional well-being to make peace with the past, embrace the present, and envision a hopeful future.

Ultimate Self-Care Routines to Solve Daily Problems

1. Avoiding ArgumentsWhile discussions and dialogues can be constructive, arguments are not. They often aim to manipulate, intimidate, or force the other person to accept one’s point of view. Arguments waste time and deteriorate relationships. The focus shifts to belittling, demeaning, or discouraging others, all in the pursuit of self-vindication. Losing an argument can drain mental energy and harm well-being, leading to resentment and making it hard to focus on personal goals.

   Why Avoid Arguments?

   Medical and psychological research has shown that emotional arguments can lead to:

   • Increased heart rate
   • Increased blood pressure
   • Stress hormone release (epinephrine and norepinephrine)
2. Practicing ForgivenessAs human beings, we are all prone to errors. I am not perfect, and I may hurt or disappoint others, just as I have been hurt or disappointed by them. This happens to everyone, whether intentionally or unintentionally. When hurt, it is easy to feel anger and other strong emotions. However, holding onto these feelings—bitterness, resentment, and anger—can lead to serious health issues. Unforgiveness keeps the pain alive, preventing wounds from healing and leading to a life focused on past grievances.

   As a Christian, I have learned to forgive continuously (Matthew 18:22).

   Why Is Forgiveness Important?

   • Forgiving releases me from negative emotions, allowing me to move forward. It frees me from those who have harmed me and creates space for healing and growth.
   • Forgiveness fosters empathy and compassion for those who have hurt me.

   Key Point: Forgiveness is a conscious decision to let go of negative feelings, regardless of whether the other person deserves it.

3. Eating Healthy MealsA healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat options can reduce the risk of heart disease by maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

   Why Should I Try to Eat Well?

   A well-balanced diet provides:

   • The energy needed to stay active throughout the day
   • Nutrients for growth and repair, helping prevent diet-related illnesses and keeping me healthy
4. Practicing Selective ListeningTrying to absorb everything I hear can be exhausting and energy-draining. I choose to listen only to what is relevant and important, a concept known as selective hearing. Selective hearing allows me to focus my attention on specific information while ignoring what isn’t necessary. I refer to this as the “principle of ignorance,” which helps me avoid distractions and saves time by filtering out irrelevant information.

   In my pursuit of a better life, there are countless obstacles, and staying focused helps me stay on track and achieve my goals.

   Biblical Example: Nehemiah 4:1-22 tells the story of Nehemiah rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. Despite mockery from naysayers like Sanballat and Tobiah, Nehemiah and his team chose to ignore them, applying the principle of selective hearing until they completed their work.

5. Practicing Regular ExerciseRegular exercise is essential for maintaining good health. To stay healthy, I engage in activities that burn calories consistently.

   Why Is Exercise Important?

   • Exercise releases endorphins, which improve mood and reduce stress. With a clearer mind, I can approach work more effectively and make better decisions.
   • Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and strengthens the immune system.

Conclusion

In the face of adversity, challenges, trauma, or significant stress, we all need to incorporate self-care routines into our daily lives. Each of us is on a unique journey, facing different processes and callings. Self-care helps us build resilience—the ability to adapt well to life’s ever-changing conditions.

Let us nourish our physical and mental well-being by empowering our journeys with positivity and embracing life. Remember, we are all in this together. Let us approach each day with resilience and optimism.