​5 most underrated forms of self-care you're probably ignoring (But need right now)

Self-care isn't just about taking bubble baths and green smoothies. The real form of self-care is simple habits that rebuild you from within. So, here we list simple self care habits that are highly underrated. Read on to know more. Which one is your favourite? Tell us in the comments below:

Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries are a form of self-care too. Research shows assertiveness training cuts stress up to 52% and significantly boosts self-esteem.
This simple step can help you reclaim your time to your goals, relationships that truly matter, and sanity-- thus focussing on things that truly matter. Remember, true self-care honours your limits, not societal "nice guy/ girl" expectations.

Suppressing your tears delays healing. Instead, learn to accept that it's okay to not feel okay at times. Sit with yourself each day (at least for 15-20 minutes) and feel your emotions-- whether it is feeling sad, emotional, angry or happy. Journal your thoughts and emotions and validate what you are feeling. This helps reduce any pent-up pain or emotions, and makes you feel free instead. Science shows emotional release through therapy or journaling lowers stress hormones - while crying shows promising but results.

Considering the fast-paced and constantly digitally connected world we live in, it can feel overwhelming for people at times. So, schedule one screen-free Sunday every week. No doom-scrolling on social media or checking emails. Replace this time with outdoor walks, reading books, spending quality time with family or reconnecting with friends. Digital overload can make you feel anxious, and so digital detoxes can restore dopamine balance.

It is often said what you do first thing in the morning, sets the tone for the remaining day-- and rightly so. So, instead of rushing in the morning for work or household chores, plan to wake up early (ideally by 5am or 6am). This will give you enough time to kick-start your day on a slow, relaxed and calm manner-- thus making you feel good and accomplished. You can utilise this time for yoga, mediation, journaling, exercising or simply sitting with yourself for sometime. Slow mornings help you reclaim your time and space, and not feel rushed through the day.

Take out time to schedule nightly nostalgia rituals-- be it looking at old photo albums, 90s playlists, or your grandma's favourite recipes. Nostalgia reduces feeling of loneliness. It also reminds you of the tough times in the past and how you overcame them-- thus building your faith that you can do it this time too. And by sharing stories from your past or childhood days with your partner or children helps deepen your bond with them.