What does self-care mean to you? For many people, self-care involves indulging in activities like shopping, getting a
pedicure, having a massage, or enjoying a
relaxing vacation. However, is it always necessary to spend a lot of money in order to practice self-care? I don't think so.
I believe that self-care should be a daily practice, and if it required substantial spending, it would become unsustainable. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy treating myself to facials or shopping spree, but I don't believe that self-care is solely about those activities.
Here are a few self-care tips that you can incorporate into your daily routine:
Squeaky Clean
Sometimes, all you need is you to feel clean. I know that sounds so simple and weird, but if you are feeling down, hop in the shower or bath to feel a bit better. If you want to take a shower, make sure it’s long and hot.
Play music, really take time massaging your scalp when you wash your hair, and even try exfoliating your body, or trying out a new soap that you’ve been waiting to try.
If you have the time, a bath is a great option, too. Grab a glass of wine, or a cup of tea and a book, throw on some relaxing music, fill the tub with
Epsom salts,
essential oils, and whatever else you like and hop in.
Once again, take your time and enjoy yourself. When you get out of the tub or shower, take your time getting ready and focus on your skin. Apply your
favorite products to your face and body and do your hair, if you have time.
Seriously - this will make you feel like you are starting fresh and new again and will completely restart your day.
Throw On Some Clothes
After your shower (or even if you do not have time to shower), throw on some clothes...but not just any clothes! When it comes to getting dressed, I really want you to choose something that you feel great and confident in.
Self-care is all about feeling the best that we can possibly feel, so wearing something that we love is the perfect way to add just an extra touch of self-care into your
getting-ready routine.
Eat Up
Once you have finished getting ready for your day, it is time to eat! Many people have the goal of weight loss in the new year, and it is impossible without healthy eating. You know the saying, “abs are made in the kitchen.”
Well, it’s true. Weight loss aside, a healthy diet can help you become more energized, it can help with disease prevention and your overall health.
“The nutrients in the foods you eat support the activities of day-to-day living, protect your cells from environmental damage, and repair any cellular damage that might occur. Protein rebuilds injured tissue and promote a healthy immune system.
Both carbohydrates and fats fuel your body, while vitamins and minerals function throughout your body in support of your body’s processes. Vitamins A, C, and E, for example, act as antioxidants to protect your cells against toxins, and B vitamins help you extract energy from the foods you eat. Calcium and phosphorus keep your bones strong, while sodium and potassium help to transmit nerve signals.
Without a healthy diet, you might compromise any of these essential functions. The great thing about eating healthy is that it will also boost your mood and support your body as a whole, so it really is the perfect way to practice self-care.
Find The Sun
I’m not sure about you, but I love going outside when I am practicing self-care. Why? Maybe it’s the fresh air, or Vitamin D, or just a change of scenery, but I always feel so refreshed during my time outside and afterward, as well.
If you have extra time in the morning, I highly recommend sitting outside for a bit - maybe while drinking your morning
cup of tea or
coffee or while you journal or read a chapter or two in a book that you’re reading.
See A Counselor or Therapist
Last but not least, talking with a counselor is always a great way to practice self-care because if you are not in the best shape when it comes to your mental health, then you probably have a hard time feeling great about yourself and your day-to-day life.
If you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or other problems, please seek out counseling or a therapist.
In conclusion, self-care is not just about booking an expensive spa day or going on a luxurious vacation. It's about taking care of ourselves each day, even in small ways.
By practicing self-care daily, we can prioritize our mental and physical health without breaking the bank.
Taking a long shower, putting on clothes that make us feel confident, eating healthy, spending time outside, and seeking counseling when needed are all simple but powerful ways to show ourselves some love and care.
Remember, self-care is not selfish - it's necessary for our overall well-being. So, let's make self-care a daily habit and prioritize our health and happiness.