Self-Care is important because it increases your awareness and connection to your body. Self-care is one of the most overlooked fundamentals to well-being, yet it costs virtually nothing. Self-Care can easily be cultivated one day at time. Try some of our ways to practice self care and incorporate them into your daily routine.
Treat Yourself!
Read A Self Improvement Book
A great self improvement or motivational book can give that extra PUSH you need to re-focus or re-energize. Self-improvement books provide you with the fuel and inspiration to continue striving for the life of your dreams. Reconnect with your why and get the tools you need to continue moving forward and making it happen.
Listen To A Guided Meditation
Guided mediation gives you the opportunity to slow everything down, and give your mind a break. It improves your cognitive abilities and mental clarity. Meditation also assists with visualization and helps reduce stress. Starting with guided meditation will help you incorporate meditation into your daily routine.
Write Yourself A Love Note
Its ok to brag on yourself. Studies show that we usually remember the things that we did wrong more frequently than we remember our accomplishments. Take some time to pat yourself on the back and fall in love with who you are. Include a list of 10 things that you absolutely love about you. Highlight those attributes every chance that you get.
Write A Note Of Gratitude
Gratitude is one of the keys to happiness. Tell someone who has helped you along the way how much you appreciate them in your life. A written note displays your thoughtfulness and appreciation. The recipient of your note will be encouraged to continue to do wonderful things for the other member in their tribe. This activity completes the circle of giving and gratitude.
Light A Stress Relief Candle
Sometimes the smallest things can make a big difference. If you don't have much free time, try lighting a stress relief candle as you shower and prepare for bed. Take a few moments to close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Allow yourself some time to reconnect with your body and mind. You will feel the difference and your soul will too.
Paint / Draw / Doodle
Tap into your creative side. Many of us are so focused on our to do lists and top 3 priorities that we seldom take the time to be creative. Creativity is the route to authenticity. As we create, we explore our being, accessing what we think and believe. The more we create, the more we are mindful of our habits, impulses, and desires.
See It & Believe It
Do Yoga
Get active and mindful at the same time. The benefits of yoga are innumerable. Yoga increases flexibility, which relieves minor aches and pains. It also increases blood flow, alertness and focus, which makes you feel happier. It is easy to find a 15-minute yoga class on You-Tube. Try a yoga class in your neighborhood for a guided practice.
Visualization
Find a quiet place, set a 10 minute timer and close your eyes. Take the time to breathe deeply and visualize your dream life. What are you working for? What does it look and feel like? Your mind has to see and believe in the vision, daily.
Indulge In A Guilty Pleasure
If you don't make you happy, then who will? Every now and then allow yourself to indulge in a guilty pleasure. If binge watching your favorite show with a glass of wine and kettle corn popcorn brings you ultimate joy, go for it! Allow yourself the time to do the things that bring you joy. Life is tough enough, don't try to make it through without a little happiness.
Watch A Motivational TED Talk or Podcast
There are tons of areas of interest to pick from. If you are feeling down find an energetic motivational speaker to kick your energy up a notch. Use the time to learn about something you’ve been putting off like sales marketing or the newest innovations in the tech industry. Watch or listen to something that makes you feel more focused and empowered afterwards.
Pamper Yourself
Book a massage at the spa or a facial to rejuvenate your body. Try giving yourself a massage or mani/pedi to connect with your body. Feel it, nourish it, love it! Just as any human being thrives on positive, loving touch, so does your body.
Smile In The Mirror
Fall in love with yourself! Love your smile, your teeth, every single bit of it. When you love yourself, you teach others how to love and respect you. Smiling exudes your inner confidence to the world. You cant always control what happens to you, but you can control how you react to it. Smile!
Donate Things You Aren't Using Anymore
De-clutter your life and give to someone in need, double win! Constantly evaluate the things in your life that are no longer serving you. If you haven't worn something in 2 years, just get rid of it. You’ve outgrown the thing and there’s someone else who could benefit from your generosity.
Do A Fun Craft Or Project
There’s some small project or DIY pin on Pinterest that keeps getting pushed to the side. Do something fun for yourself! Making art is meditative. Taking the time to use our hands, mind, and energy to create something we love is of uptmost importance. Being creative makes us happy. Treat yourself.
Plan A Movie Night
Pick a fun movie and invite some friends over for a night of laughter and snacks. Movie nights usually turn into nights filled with great conversation and connection. Fun, laughter, and play brightens the mood, helps us connect to others, reduces stress, and enhances well-being.
Soak In A Bath With Lavender
Take the time to allow your body to relax. Warm water and lavender have soothing and calming properties which combat inflammation and muscle tension. Light candles, play light music and dim the lights for a totally relaxing experience. When you feel good, you are able to better adapt to the situations in your life.
Cook A New Healthy Recipe
Cooking has a relaxing factor. Knowing that you are preparing a meal that will nourish your body and give you the fuel needed to be the best version of yourself, is another benefit. Eating healthy strengthens and reinforces the mind-body connection, it also makes weight management easier. Self care allows you the time to do the things that make you the best version of yourself.
