When is the last time you did something just for you? Life can tend to get in the way of taking care of ourselves, but self-care doesn’t have to take hours and it doesn’t even have to be the same routine – it can be whatever works best for you! It’s important to build self-care rituals into your life to keep yourself happy and at peace–as women keep the world running!
According to mentalhealthfirstaid.org, “Engaging in a self-care routine has been clinically proven to reduce or eliminate anxiety and depression, reduce stress, increase happiness, and more. It can help you adapt to changes, build strong relationships, and recover from setbacks. In a national survey, Americans cited benefits of self-care as: enhanced self-confidence (64%), increased productivity (67%), [and] happiness (71%). From a physical health perspective, self-care also reduces [risk of] heart disease, stroke and cancer.”
The statistics speak for themselves! Self-care is essential to our health and wellness. There’s no way to pour into others without filling your cup first, but it’s also essential to meet your own needs and honor yourself independently of what others around you may require so here’s some tips on how to build your best self-care routine.
Morning/ Evening Routine
Establishing a morning and evening routine is the best way to stick to your self-care practices. Each morning and evening, start with your skincare routine. This can include ice rolling, doing gua sha lymphatic drainage, applying skin patches, and using your favorite products. Lolli and I both love face rolling and experimenting with skin cycling among favorite products. This little mini “facial” treatment will get you motivated to get out of bed in the morning and help you wind down for sleep every night. Lighting a candle, turning on your favorite music and doing a 20-minute tidy of your space are also great ways to signify the start or end to the day!
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness can look different to everyone but doing a bit of mindfulness work each day can create such a difference in your daily outlook. For some people, prayer/meditation is key. Even 5 minutes in the morning and before bed can set the tone for the whole day. So get comfy, turn on a meditation podcast, open a devotional book, or just focus on your mind. Maybe you enjoy journaling – gratitude journals are an amazing way to focus on the little things that bring us joy and remind us of all the good we have in our lives. Encourage your kids to start this practice, too! If you’re anxious or stressed, deep breathing techniques or a walk in fresh air can help lower your heart rate and recenter the mind.
Focus on Health
A big part of self care is actually giving our bodies everything it needs to thrive! This can be in the form of daily supplements and vitamins (so talk to your doctor about what the best option for this might be for you) and start feeling your best. Setting a water intake goal and reaching a steps goal is an easy and great way to fuel your body’s state of equilibrium. There are even fun water bottles to help you track how much you drink per day. Cooking healthy, whole meals is essential to feeling your best. This one definitely takes a bit more time but meal prepping and having a great recipe book on hand is the best way to make sure you’re eating well. Don’t let those new year’s resolutions die in February!
Get Moving!
As Elle Woods famously said — “endorphins make you happy!” Try to do some sort of movement every day, as exercise not only improves your physical health but emotional and mental health as well. This can be anything from a yoga or spin class to walking the dog outside or just getting some time in the sunshine! If you have a busy work day, try a walking pad under your desk or a stationary desk bike for your office! You can even set up a small workout station in your home for quick and easy Youtube workouts. Step trackers and fitness watches are great tools for self-accountability. Lolli uses an Apple Watch and I like my Amazon Halo for that!
Unplug
So much of our lives are spent on our phones or computers, and it’s imperative that we put the technology down every once in a while! This is a great time to read a book you’ve been meaning to get to, do a spiritual reflection, or even watch your favorite show or movie without distraction! Anything that will disconnect you and your brain away from the constant need to connect and compare that we feel when we’re on our devices. Don’t let anxiety win, and know when you need a break from your usual pace!
Relax
This one is easier said than done, but taking time to relax will make all the difference when life gets stressful. Setting up your bathtub like a spa with candles, a beautiful tray and maybe a glass of wine will make you feel like you’re on vacation. Going to get your nails done, booking a massage with Zeel or Soothe (who come to you!), having a spa day, or getting a facial are all things you can do monthly to create time for yourself away from everyone and your phone (this is key!).
Be Social
We are social creatures that crave connection with other people! Haven’t talked to your best friend from college in a few months? Pick up the phone and call them! Been too busy to see your neighbors? Have them over for a dinner party or happy hour. Go to a workout class with a new friend! Host a zoom party with friends across the country. Volunteering your time is also an amazing way to interact with others while giving back to your community! RealityCheckIt.org is a great way to plug in to DFW nonprofits’ needs in real time!
Escape
This one might be the most important! Vacation can relieve so much stress, give you time away from the daily chaos and create new amazing memories. My recent couples trip to Cabo was incredible (thanks to Lolli for keeping the kids!), and we came back feeling refreshed and motivated. It’s amazing what a little time away by yourself, with your spouse or with your girlfriends can do for your mental health.
Don’t forget to show yourself a little love this month! Let us know your favorite self-care rituals by tagging @lolliandme on Instagram!
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