I’m not really a self-help follower. Despite the fact that some of my favorite reads from this year fall into that category (Rising Strong!), buzzwords like self-care tend to turn me off. It’s all a little hippy-dippy for me and seems straightforward.
Of course, I take care of myself! But it goes further than that. It’s not just about your physical health, but your mental health. What makes you feel recharged? It’s not what you “should” be doing, but what makes you feel reset. It’s that activity that you can do selfishly and without guilt.
One of the questions that is frequently asked on Real Talk Radio is your favorite self-care practice, which is what made me really think about it. For creatives, or those who work from home like I do, self-care is essential.
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Self-care is different for everyone. What works for you might not work for me. But here are a few of my favorites that I’ll let you borrow. In the words of Parks and Recreation, treat yoself. Just make sure to do it frequently!
1. Get a massage or take a bath and splurge on all the good products. The Loews hotel in Atlanta is my favorite place to get pampered.
2. Read a book or magazine. Watch a movie. Listen to music or podcast for pleasure. True crime podcasts are my favorite.
3. Color in an adult coloring book or free draw, a technique used in teaching. I recently got a Doctor Who coloring book that I’m obsessed with.
4. Scrapbook or craft. Is this just me that loves working with my hands? Find inspiration on Pinterest.
5. Meditate or do yoga for calm, not exercise. Use the Zen app for guided meditation.
6. Sleep. I like napping outside by the pool with a blanket.
7. Move your body. Take a walk, kayak, paddleboard, swim, or dance. My favorite activities are taking my dog for a walk and renting a paddleboard at the river near my house.
8. Meet up for coffee with a friend or loved one. Spending time with people that know me well and get me makes me feel great.
9. Write a note to someone far away. This is the benefit of having friends all over the world.
10. Journal. Sometimes I jot down thoughts and other times I just describe inane events.
11. Take a class or learn something. I use DuoLingo every day to keep my mind active and to learn Spanish.
12. Purge unnecessary items. Clean out that closet.
13. Cook something delicious but good for you.
14. Get a blowout, haircut, or makeup done just for fun. Treat yourself.
15. Write affirmations on your mirror or add to your gratitude jar.
What’s your favorite self-care practice?
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I’m a big believer in self-care, but it’s only this year that I’ve learned what it actually means and how important it is. I have various ways of looking after myself; reading a good book with a lit candle, swimming, yoga, writing, listening to music… depending on what I feel I need. I love your list of self-care ideas… maybe I’ll finally buy an adult coloring book and get coloring :)
Love these ideas too, Ella!