The Ultimate Guide to Practicing Selfcare During Hard Times
As of July 11, 2024, the annual inflation rate in the US was 3%, which is the lowest it's been in over a year. This is down from 3.3% that we saw in June and a 0.1% decrease from May to June. Buttttt, prices are still a whopping 21.78% higher than they were in 2020, when the pandemic-induced recession started.
But first, what is inflation?
Inflation is the rate at which the price of goods and services increases. Because of inflation, the value of money decreases over time. So inflation affects the prices of everything around us.
The most recent surge in inflation has been driven by supply chain issues, a housing crisis, consumer demand and economic stimulus from the pandemic.
Historical U.S. Inflation Rates
To give you some perspective, from 1989 to 2019, the average inflation rate was 2.5%. The U.S targets a 2% rate of inflation over time.
"If a person is constantly feeling stressed about finances and struggling to pay for necessities, they're likely to have less energy to focus on making healthy lifestyle choices or accessing preventive medicine, thus creating a domino effect on other important aspects of their lives." ~ Harvard Business Review, 2022
Why is self-care important during challenging times?
During times of financial stress and uncertainty, taking care of yourself is crucial to maintaining your mental and emotional well-being. Self-care practices can help reduce stress, improve your mood, and boost your resilience in the face of adversity.
How can you practice self-care during hard times?
1. Prioritize self-care activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as reading a book, taking a bath, or going for a walk in nature.
2. Practice mindfulness and meditation to help calm your mind and reduce anxiety.
3. Connect with loved ones for support and companionship, even if it's just through a phone call or video chat.
4. Engage in physical activity to release endorphins and improve your overall well-being.
What are some self-care practices to try?
1. Create a daily self-care routine that includes activities you enjoy and that help you relax.
2. Set boundaries with work and technology to give yourself time to unwind and recharge.
3. Practice gratitude by keeping a journal of things you are thankful for each day.
4. Treat yourself to small indulgences, like an indulgent body cream, taking a long bath, or a movie night at home.
Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish—it is essential for your overall well-being, especially during challenging times. By prioritizing self-care, you can better cope with stress, improve your mental health, and build resilience to face whatever comes your way.
