Emotional self-care

Journaling

placeholder image desc. TODO: implement alt-text handler
Freepik

Getting out into nature

placeholder image desc. TODO: implement alt-text handler

Making time for enjoyment

Physical self-care

A healthy amount of exercise can also improve your mood and reduce depression.

Spiritual self-care

Spiritual self-care refers to the act of nourishing your soul.

placeholder image desc. TODO: implement alt-text handler
Freepik

placeholder image desc. TODO: implement alt-text handler
Freepik

Acknowledge what your body does for you

I like that my hands have allowed me to type this message.

I am able to take my dog out for a walk because of my body.

I can feel the softness of my cat’s fur with my hands.

Acknowledge the things that might not work for you

I can see that my shoulders are too wide and that hurts me.

I think my voice is too squeaky and I do not feel like myself.

Notice and neutralise negative self-talk

Body negative thought
Body neutral thought
“I think I’m too short for a guy and I hate it so much.”
“It makes me so uncomfortable when people treat me as less of a man because of my height, but I am who I am and I should be kind to my body because my body deserves care.”
“I hate the way I look with this binder and I’m not flat at all.”
“I should wear something that makes me feel less dysphoric.”
“My voice is too deep and I’ll never pass even after I’ve practiced so much.”
“It makes me uncomfortable when people misgender me after hearing my voice but I am making progress by practising, and one day I will get there.”

placeholder image desc. TODO: implement alt-text handler

placeholder image desc. TODO: implement alt-text handler
Freepik

Relationships are a two-way street.

placeholder image desc. TODO: implement alt-text handler
Freepik

Self-soothing activities that stimulate the senses help here:

Understand that these are just recommendations — there’s no wrong way to deal with how we feel inside! Remember to avoid unhealthy coping strategies. Workaholism, alcohol and substance abuse will ultimately lead to a state where instead of feeling more at home with your body you end up feeling worse. You may feel good in the brief moments where you are indulging in something unhealthy, but they will be detrimental in the long term.