As an expat you are going to have some amazing life-changing experiences, but with so much inevitable uncertainty in expat life, this can take a toll on your emotional and physical wellbeing. Facing common day-to-day stressors in expat life will be a lot easier when you’re feeling mentally strong enough to do so.
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Why expats need to take self-care seriously
Developing an effective self-care plan that works for you
Self-care is not a one-size-fits-all approach, it really comes down to what your needs are and how you care for yourself. This can be anything from taking enough time to rest, making time to socialise or that workout class you never miss each week. Making time to introduce self-care into your daily routine will help you focus on your health and wellbeing and take on all the highs and lows that come with expat life.
When creating your self-care routine, consider all aspects of your life
If you are finding it difficult to manage work and your personal life, evaluating all areas of your life can help you establish and find the right self-care routines for you. There are various self-care strategies you can implement. Some of the most universal approaches focus on key areas of life, including:
1. Physical self-care: Taking care of your body by fuelling yourself with healthy nutritious meals and making time to exercise, or it could be as simple as getting enough quality sleep. For more on how to look after your physical health explore our guide on staying healthy as a busy expat here.
2. Mental and Emotional self-care: Incorporatingmental and emotional self-care into your routine can help you better understand and process both good and bad emotions, while also managing symptoms of anxiety and stress. These practices can include keeping a self-care journal, morning meditation, or even making time for therapy to reflect on past experiences.
3. Social self-care: Connecting with others in your social circle is a great way to boost your mood and feel connected with family and friends. As a new expat, it can be challenging, but taking time to meet other expats and locals in your area will help you feel more connected to the community and can positively impact your mental health.
How to make sure your self-care strategies stick
Not every self-care routine is perfect, but discovering what strategies work for you is key to maintaining them in your life. To help you incorporate some effective self-care into your daily routine, here are some practical tips.
Start making time for activities you enjoy
Finding simple activities or hobbies that you enjoy outside of work will help to naturally support your own wellbeing. Maybe you have a hobby that you have been neglecting. Caring for yourself means you need to make time for things you enjoy. Dedicating time to these activities can positively impact your mental, emotional, and physical health over time
Be realistic with your time for self-care activities
With a busy schedule, it can be so hard to find the time to introduce a new self-care routine. Try to set realistic expectations so that you are not overcommitting to something that will not be sustainable. Small and simple changes will benefit you more in the long run.
Stay consistent with your self-care routine
Consistency is key to ensuring your new self-care routine sticks. It's okay to fall off track occasionally, but maintaining consistency will help you feel the most benefits over time.
Learning to say no and prioritising personal well-being
Your time outside of work is valuable and there are only so many hours in the day. If you feel you're spreading yourself too thinly, it might be time to decline some invitations. Take the time to rest and rejuvenate in your own way.
An essential for anyone living and working abroad is access to international health insurance. At Allianz, our cover is specifically designed for individuals residing or working overseas for an extended period. Explore our international health insurance for expats and find the right cover for your needs today.
Are you moving abroad?
Before venturing to another country, make sure you have a health insurance plan you can rely on.
