Department of Family Services – Domestic and Sexual Violence Services

CONTACT INFORMATION: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
703-324-5730 TTY 711
12011 Government Center Parkway, Pennino Building, Floor 7, Suite 740
Fairfax, VA 22035
Toni Zollicoffer
Director

Volunteer Voices – Self-Care: Five Self-Care Tips for Emotional Well-Being

Volutneer Voices newsletter graphic image of conversation clouds, announcement horn, speaker microphone

Year-round, Domestic and Sexual Violence Services have wonderful volunteers who give of their time and talent to help others. We also recognize that each volunteer may have other things going on in their lives, too. 

Life can sometimes demand a lot. Stressful jobs with endless virtual meetings, juggling family obligations, unresolved trauma from the past, re-learning third-grade math alongside your child. On top of that, the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 has been over-the-top challenging.

Additionally, it seems like there aren't enough hours in the day to do all the things you’ve been planning to do. But there are some things you can’t afford to skip! One of those things is self-care, which is vital for emotional well-being.

Daily self-care activities can help with managing emotions in a healthier way – allowing us to better navigate the things we face daily. 

hand holding match to light candleTry these simple tips:

  1. Meditate for 5 minutes each day. There are lots of ways to meditate, but the most important thing to remember is to make time to check in with yourself. Clear your mind of clutter and breathe deeply. Focus on your breathing and nothing else.
  2. Take a break and go for a walk outside. This is especially important if you’ve been sitting for extended periods of time and are paying for it with neck and low-back issues.
  3. Light a candle. Whether you choose tea lights or scented varieties, the act of lighting a candle and bathing in its glow feels like your own personal sacred ritual.
  4. Enjoy your favorite cup of tea or glass of wine before bed.
  5. Dance, sing or write. Find a creative outlet and set aside time each week to just do it.

Find ways to incorporate self-care into your regular regimen, and you’ll find more balance and tranquility in your life.


This article posting is part of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Services' Volunteer Voices monthly newsletter for current and potential volunteers. If you're not already a volunteer, learn how to get involved. Find out about upcoming trainings, volunteer trainings, happenings around the DSVS office and information about articles, books, media recommendations and more.

Learn more about the Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (DSVS).

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Fairfax Virtual Assistant