This month is all about showing the ones we love just how much we love them. But when was the last time you showed yourself some love? Life is always pulling us every which way, and at times it seems that we cannot catch a break. Sometimes we see stories on the news that scare us and articles on social media that discourage us. With all this commotion in our lives, it is important for us to take a self-care day. You may be saying “YES! I agree, I should take care of myself more…but how?” Self-care is actually difficult to remember, and at many times is the last thing on our to-do list. Below are some tips for self-care and some ideas that you can adopt into your “treat yo self” day.
-Self-Care Tips-
- Be intentional about self-care. Plan a day or maybe even an hour of every day where you do something you love. Planning your self-care is a great way to make sure it happens. Otherwise, that latte or good book you were looking forward to will move to the bottom of the to-do list.
- Commit to actually doing what you planned. If you make plans for self-care, stick to them. A great way to do this is by learning to say “no” – and by understanding that saying “no” is okay. When we are overwhelmed, bogged down, and just plain tired, listening to our minds and bodies – and using that one little word – can be our ticket to relaxation. In the end, you’ll be happy you said it!
- Make a list of all the things you love to do. Sit down this week or weekend and really think about what makes you happy. Is it reading, walking, talking with friends? Whatever brings you moments of joy, jot those things down and hang them on the refrigerator. Whenever you feel stressed, go to your list and pick one.
-20 Ideas for your list-
- Take a candle-lit bath
- Create a garden
- Read a book, magazine, blog
- Go for a walk (no pup needed)
- Watch a movie
- Take a drive in the countryside (or mountains)
- Meditate or practice yoga
- Listen to your favorite music
- Grab lunch with a friend
- Unplug from technology
- Bake some cookies
- Journal your thoughts
- Take a nap
- Binge-watch your favorite show
- Watch or listen to something that makes you laugh
- Volunteer
- Join a fun exercise class (martial arts, Zumba, spinning)
- Go get your nails or hair done
- Make a list of all the things you are thankful for
- Go outside and take pictures of anything that inspires you
These are just some examples of things you can do to take care of yourself. In the end, you do you. You are different from any other person that has existed or will ever exist. So, find out what makes you happy and run with it! This Valentines Day, “Treat Yo Self!”