Try some self love this Valentines Day

Valentines Day is fast approaching. The media and the shops are full of romantic ways to show someone you love them, but what about self love? It’s important that you take time out for you, and even more so if you are a young adult carer looking after someone.

Here are some tips that we’ve compiled to help you care more for yourself, appropriate for any day of the year, not just Valentine’s Day!

Plan your own pamper night

You know what makes you happy. Whether it’s a long bath, reading a book or watching your favourite programme on TV. Plan some time out for you if you can. Try and get your feet up and relax as best you can.

Another great way to relax is to listen to some of the podcasts or mindful mixes that you can find on the BBC Sounds app. There’s also a wide range of music to choose from too. Alternatively, Headspace is a meditation app that can teach you mindfulness and meditation in easy-to-follow steps.

Talk to someone close to you

Let off steam and talk to someone close to you. Maybe arrange to go for a walk, meet up at a cafe, or have a long phone call with someone you haven't spoke to in a while.

Take yourself for a walk

Getting outside into the fresh air can help improve your mood. Nature’s benefits to wellbeing are well documented. Perhaps try a route you’ve not been on before or see if you can spot the emergence of any spring flowers? There may be a walking group that meets locally to you as well. The Walking for Health website has a search function where you can look for groups.

Look after your physical health

Keeping yourself physically healthy will not only benefit the person you care for, but yourself and your own mental health too. If you are stuck for where to start, Carers UK have a new Carers Active Hub. They also run regular yoga, pilates and dance class online for unpaid carers to join for free.