Self-Care for Introverts

Coming into the new year I could sense a clear need within me to recalibrate.  The holiday season had been hectic, and I felt in over my head with business and social obligations and unforeseen spending.  I knew I needed rest.  As an introvert, I assumed regaining energy would happen in the quiet moments so I set out to protect and even scout out alone time and rest.  Something strange happened – after a few weeks I started feeling worse!  Nothing made sense, wasn’t this the successful introverted method to revitalize my quiet spirit?  Then, I heard an expert in self-care share this excellent tip: regardless of personality traits, active rest (being with others, exercise) has been shown to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul much more than passive rest (being alone and/or inactive).  As an introvert I was doing it all wrong!

Concurrently, I have been reading about a program that promotes overall internal and external wellness.  One component of the program that struck me (and that I scored pretty low in) focused on environmental health and how this may impact introverts more than extroverts.  For those who prefer staying home more than being out and about, how intentional are you with your environment?  Research shows that energy and mental health can improve exponentially when we also care for our surroundings.  Here are some questions to ask yourself that may improve your overall wellness.

• Are my personal files, papers and receipts neatly filed away?
• Is my car in excellent condition?
• Is my home neat and clean? (Vacuumed, closets clean, desks and tables clear, furniture in good repair, windows clean)
• Are my appliances, machinery and equipment working well? (Refrigerator, toaster, water heater, computer)
• Are my clothes pressed, clean and make me look great?  (No wrinkles, baskets of laundry, torn, or ill-fitting clothes)
• Are my plants and animals healthy?
• Does my bed/bedroom let me have the best sleep possible?
• Do I live in a home/apartment I love?
• Do I consistently have adequate time, space and freedom in my life?
• Is my work environment productive and inspiring?
• Is my bed made daily?
• Do people feel comfortable in my home?
• Have I let go of things in my home that I do not need?
• Am I consistently early or easily on time?

Clearly, I have some work to do in my own life to successfully answer these questions.  For the complete checklist, please feel free to e-mail me at info@cerinagriffin.com and I will be happy to send it to you.  I am excited to readjust my self-care routine to include others, more activity and environmental intention!  How about you?