Part of living a beautiful life is taking good care of your self. As women, we have the tendency to put ourselves at the bottom of the priority lists. As the saying goes – you can’t fill someone else’s glass if yours is empty! How true is that, and yet so easy to forget?
I’m sharing 10 simple ways we can take better care of ourselves. One vital habit is self-care and it’s a practice that requires us choosing to do it and then, be certain we are intentional about making it happen. The results will prove that you can experience more joy, rest and soul-health. I’m by no means perfect at this, but I’m definitely aware of when I need to focus on myself and I’m sure you are as well. The first step is to make a conscious effort to take care of you!
Social self-care. Think about which activities and relationships are truly adding value to your life, and then intentionally make more time and space for those things. I love to garden, photography, hike and home décor so these are the activities I tend to gravitate towards. Family and close friends add needed value as well so dinner dates with them are a priority for me.
Do something that gives you energy! Exercise is a key part of self-care. Take 20 minutes to stretch, walk or do 30 minutes of yoga. I recently started this yoga program at home and I’m really enjoying it and seeing the benefits. Find an activity you enjoy. It could be golfing, gardening or even the exercise that comes with playing with the grandkids!
Take a long, warm bath. While you’re at it, light your favorite candle and listen to music. Most of the time, its when we’re up at our cabin that I find quiet time to do this and I look so forward to it.
Treat yourself to fresh flowers. I’m a huge fan of Trader Joe’s, they have the very best prices and a lot to choose from. Be sure to check them out.
Practice mini-meditation. Begin or end your day with a minute of deep breathing and focused awareness of your body, thoughts and feelings. One of my favorite apps for meditation and relaxation is called Calm.
Write or journal your thoughts. Take 15mins in the morning with a cup of coffee or tea and jot down whatever is on your mind and 5 things you’re grateful for. I have this Prayer Journal that I write in every morning!!
Be still. I have always been so drawn to the outdoors at sunset. I’ll forever be that girl who gets really excited when the sun sets in the sky. I embrace the stillness and reflect on all of Gods goodness and true beauty in the world. Savor the moment and make it part of your mindfulness routine.
Enjoy a piece of chocolate or a glass of wine. Better yet, enjoy both together. Dark chocolate and red wine have many health benefits. I have to admit this is something I do almost daily!
Schedule yourself a pedicure. It’s one way to reaffirm your value! I always bring in my favorite bottle of polish for them to use, this way I can touch up my pedicure, if needed between appointments. Right now, I’m loving this shade of polish!
Hopefully, we can get away soon and once you feel safe to do so, why not book a 1 or 2 night staycation alone or with a good friend. A change of scenery does wonders for the soul. Don’t forget to check Groupon or Travelzoo for any good deals or consider traveling at off-peak times of year.
As you can see, these are all fairly simple things you can do to fill your glass, so you can in turn, pour into and fill those around you! I hope you will take some time for YOU and try one or two of the ideas I’ve shared.
What do you consider the most important part of self-care? Feel free to comment below with any of the ways you practice taking care of you.
Love & Hugs,
Mimi Jackie