What is the #1 thing that gets in the way of establishing and maintaining a self-care routine for your body after 60?
Distractions.
But not just any kind of distractions.
These distractions are the result of placing more value on taking care of everything and everyone else above your own well-being.
In my previous article and video for Sixty and Me readers, we looked at how to start a self-care routine after 60.
For this article, and the accompanying video, we are going to explore how to remove obstacles and distractions to caring for yourself, while still caring for others in your life.
We will also explore 15 easy and proven options to start a self-care routine for your body after 60.
Taking responsibility for your well-being means taking responsibility for distractions that appear to keep you from starting and sustaining a self-care routine for your body.
It’s very easy to blame outside conditions or people for getting in the way of doing things that benefit your well-being.
To begin removing distractions means taking responsibility that you put them in your life. This is not someone else’s fault. Therefore, once you own this you can begin establishing healthy boundaries.
This is not to suggest you are removing every distraction from your life. It means you can more lovingly and effectively minimize the influence current distractions have over you.
Which brings us to the topic of self-love. Self-love and a healthy self-care routine for your body is about balance.
That is why taking responsibility for your well-being does not mean you completely ignore your other important responsibilities.
It comes down to being responsible for where you choose to place your attention. This is about re-prioritizing and re-organizing your daily routine around what you value most.
Once you have identified the distractions and begin addressing them, the next step is to choose what kind of self-care routine is for you.
There are many different ways to engage in a self-care routine for your body.
The first thing to do is acknowledge that what works for someone else may not be in alignment with you. Because of that, explore your options with an open mind and feel into which of them creates the ideal state of well-being for you.
Here are 15 easy and proven options for a self-care routine for your body:
You may already be engaging in one or more of these right now. That’s wonderful if you are.
The thing to consider then is not only which of these work the best for you but also, which of them can you engage more of your time doing.
Clearly, you don’t require anyone’s permission or advice to laugh and spend quality time with people you love.
But there are some options on this list that will necessitate a visit with your primary doctor or a professional fitness trainer to discuss what options are best for you at this time.
As with any activity you engage in to take care of your body after 60, being mindful not to overdo things is important.
Again, the best self-care routine is one that is balanced with where you are now emotionally, mentally, and physically. And equally so, one that is balanced with your time and energy spent in other areas of your life.
Most of all, enjoy every part of your self-care routine for your body. For what’s the point of doing anything for yourself if you are not having fun doing it?
Please join me in the video where I will share additional insights, such as why conscious breathwork and meditating are two essential self-care practices. I will also guide you through three journal prompts to help you integrate what you are learning.
Which of the 15 options for a self-care routine for your body do you engage in? Which options do you want to try or do more of? If you don’t see an option that you are currently engaged in, please do share it as well.
Tags Empowerment
Great points, thank you for the enCOURAGEment.
Since January ,omitted some habits which began with lockdown: nightly ice cream with my husband (he is welcome to his), chocolates, and junky entertainment. Added strength training with interesting and encouraging YouTube videos.
Now…adding some meditation…Begining with 5 minutes. Step by step.
Walking is one way I look after myself. I walk for over 90 mins each day (in 20-30 minute sessions). It clears my head when I am at work, gets my blood moving, uses muscles that may not have been active for a while, is good exercise without putting too much strain on any area, and I get to look around, say hi to people I pass, & I have time to think about my breathing—more slowly & deeply. Keeps my weight in check, too. Total self-care!