10 Helpful Ways to Self-Care
Self-care is important, there are no two ways about it. We all need a bit of ‘me’ time now and again, a chance to rest our bodies, reorganise our thoughts and show some self-appreciation. It’s good for the mind, body and of course, the soul!
So here are 10 Helpful Ways to Self Care that you can start implementing today.
Hydrate
I think we all know how important it is for us humans to make sure that we drink enough water every single day, but sometimes it’s easy to forget! Keeping hydrated keeps our brains in top form and our bodies functioning properly, so go on, treat yourself to a fresh glass of water! Feeling in need of a slightly more spiritual approach? Try energising yourself with Moon Water and charge yourself up with the Moon’s direct energy.
Eat Mindfully
When you’ve got time to yourself, sometimes it's rather tempting to go full out and gorge on some fast food and sugar. But deep down, our bodies are really crying out for some nourishing proteins, natural sugars and healthy fats. So next time, rather than filling up on sweets and ending up completely bloated and sluggish, try switching your focus onto some more delicious and naturally grown organic foods! Bright vibrant foods absolutely loaded with nutrients and antioxidants, and when you’re full? Stop! Our bodies are our temples, let's listen to them.
Exercise
You know what, sometimes all we need in order to feel better is to do a little exercise. I don’t mean slogging it out on the treadmill or at the gym if that’s not your style, but maybe just a little gentle stretching can help. Or taking a walk outside in the fresh air. Another great option is yoga! Yoga works for people of all capabilities and is great for the mind, body and soul. It doesn’t matter whether you join a class or practise at home, whether you have a mat or simply use a towel, all you need to do in order to start reaping the benefits of yoga is to show up.
Journal
Ah, one of my all-time favourites! Do you have an overactive brain too? Constantly thinking about one thing or another, over analysing and never feeling completely rested? Well, one of the best things to do to combat this, is to write it all down. Whether it be things that have happened, things that you want to happen or how you feel in general, writing all your thoughts down can help to remove them from your brain. This is called journaling. Nobody else has to read what you’ve written, it doesn’t even have to make any sense but as long as it's out of your head (if only temporarily) it’ll help take the pressure off and leave you feeling a little more relaxed.
Pamper
Come on, who doesn’t love a good pamper session? Whether you’re by yourself or with some friends, everybody loves a little bit of TLC. You don’t need to head to an expensive spa either, you can simply treat yourself at home. Why not make your own face mask, stick some cucumbers on your eyes and lie back with some relaxing music on? Or light some candles and run yourself a hot bath, infused with your favourite crystals and/or products. Create your own natural shampoo, do your nails, whatever helps to make you feel relaxed and cared for!
Organise & Cleanse
You know what they say - a tidy space makes for a tidy mind. There may just be some truth to it. If you’re feeling unsettled and a little all over the place, try organising and cleansing your space. Surround yourself with your favourite things, your favourite crystals and light some incense to cleanse both your atmosphere and your aura. Tidying up is a form of meditation in itself, as you’re focusing on the task at hand rather than anything else, so try this and see how you feel afterwards.
Tarot and/or a Pendulum
If you’ve got a lot on your mind and are seeking reassurance, turning to tarot can help. Whether it be asking for certain answers, doing an overall spread or just simply wanting to self reflect then tarot can help to ease your mind and find the answers you seek. Not into tarot? Then try using your favourite crystal pendulum in order to connect with your higher self and gain reassurance that way. If it’s not even reassurance that you’re after, then just the actions of both can be quite relaxing and meditative.
Be Kind
I think a big way to truly show up for yourself and care for yourself is to be kind. Respect yourself and notice your accomplishments. Be proud of everything you have done over the years, everything you’ve learnt, everything you have achieved, big or small. Recognise your strength, your beauty and your charm because you are unique. You are you. And there will never be another. Some people like to stare into mirrors and repeat affirmations, some like to cheer themselves on throughout the day and why not? You should be your own cheerleader, it’s easy to forget that sometimes but as long as you believe, then the world will.
Technology Break
One of the quickest ways to introduce self-care to your system is to switch off your phone. Life these days is completely consumed with technology, especially social media. It’s an easy way to reach people, even masses of people at just one click of a button (and for some of us, it’s our job) however all that radioactivity seriously can’t be good for the brain! You can never truly switch off and appreciate everything around you if your life completely revolves around technology, so do yourself a favour and switch it off.
Bedtime
Finally, I’d say an hour or so before settling into bed, make yourself some herbal tea! There’s a lot of different natural options out there such as chamomile, lavender, valerian root, lemon etc all known to help reduce the likes of insomnia and anxiety. For an extra decent night's sleep, I’d recommend dropping a little lavender essential oil into a diffuser, or even directly onto your pillow. Let the heavenly scent circulate, indulge yourself in a good book and gently sip your tea before drifting off into the land of nod.
Let me know if any of these work for you or if you have any other helpful ways to self-care!
Sweet dreams!