#SelfCareSundays are no longer just for Sundays. In the rise of mental health awareness, people around the world are practicing self-care on a regular basis. Self-care doesn’t just mean face masks, it’s so much more. When you’re having a bad day or a stressful week at work, try some of these things that will help you take care of yourself, your sanity and unwind your body, mind, and soul.
If you need help, join us at the SELF(ish) Philly Conference on April 3, 2020 in Philadelphia. The event is hosted by Danielle Massi, a Spiritual Psychotherapist and Founder of The Wellness Collective PHL, and Carlee Myers, Founder of The Stress Less Company. You’ll learn why you should be taking care of yourself first and how to be a boss in your own life.
Spa time
Let’s start with the obvious. The easiest way to unwind after a long day is to go home and start a nice warm bath and just let all the stress melt away. Light some candles, play some white noise in the background and empty your mind. It’s hard to do that these days because we are all so busy with our lives. Allow your mind to go blank as you’re relaxing. And if you have extra time, throw on a face mask and pour yourself a glass of wine.
Cook
Find a recipe online and grab the ingredients that you need to make the meal. Cooking requires multitasking and your full attention. It’s a great way to shift your mind from one focus to another. You can then reap the benefits of your hard work afterward. Talk about instant gratification!
Color
I found a bunch of these adult coloring books on Amazon. There are different patterns and things for you to color that is a great stress reliever. My personal favorites: “Fucking Adorable! Cute Critters with Foul Mouths”, “101 Beautiful Patterns”, and “Coffee Animals Coloring Book”. I find that in times where I can’t empty my mind, it’s easier to do something mindless.
Read
What better way than to escape the reality you’re in than jump into another reality? When I find a really good book, it’s hard to put it down. This is a great way to pull yourself from one universe and into another. I have trouble sleeping, and when my room is quiet and dark, my brain goes into overdrive and I can’t sleep. I started reading a book before I went to sleep and it really helps. But be careful, if you got a good book, you might not want to sleep at all!
Family/Friends
Call your best friend or your family. At times, emptying your mind doesn’t work so it’s easier to shift your focus from yourself to someone else. Take the time to catch up with a friend and let the conversation flow. I find myself talking about random things to my friends and it immediately makes me feel better. Outside input on the stressors in your life can open up solutions that you’ve never thought of, or it may be the kick that you need to accept something in your life.
Work Out
Sitting still not really your style? Well, get to the gym and sweat the stress off! Exercise has plenty of benefits such as improving sleep, mood, and mental health. It’s also a great way to get angry in a healthy setting. If you don’t have access to a gym, go on YouTube and watch yoga videos, or go out for a run. Try taking a barre class if you’re feeling adventurous!
Meditate
Meditation has a bit of a learning curve, but it’s worth it. I haven’t been able to perfect it just yet, it’s a work in progress. If you are able to meditate, do this for a couple of minutes each day to start your day off and you’ll start feeling results in a few sessions. This is the best gift you can give yourself. Take care of your mind, body and spirit.