10 Easy Self Care Tips to Feel Vibrant Today
Taking time to show yourself some love and focus on self care helps fill up your cup. As the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup- so as a mama, it’s vital to fit self care into your regular routine.
I used to rush around taking care of everyone else. My needs were often put on the backburner because I didn’t have “time” for me. Constantly giving of yourself and not replenishing your resources can only lead to spiralling down- and that’s where I was headed. I have since made it a priority to make time for myself everyday.
What is self care?
Self care means different things to different people. In a nutshell, it is understanding yourself when it comes to mental, physical or emotional needs. Sometimes we focus on just the physical needs- like spa visits or having a bath- and that is just one piece of the puzzle. Self care means tuning in and taking deliberate and self-initiated action to care for a part of you.
Why should I make this a priority?
After giving and giving to your family, spouse, career, volunteer role and other responsibilities- You. Will. Burn. Out.
What does burnout look like?
• Your days blend together
• You are overly emotional
• Quick to anger
• Frustration at your partner
• Giving up on interests and hobbies
• Lashing out
• Not showering or taking care of yourself
I have felt all of these things. I have crashed and burned HARD. Being a mom to two under two with limited family support and postpartum depression put me in a place where I felt exhausted, guilty, angry and frustrated. I have been a SAHM and a WAHM for 7 years. I know that I am the best version of myself when I take care of myself. Once I let go of the guilt and realized that I was worthy of taking the time- everything changed!
10 Self Care Tips to Try Now
Tip 1: Move your body
Physically moving your body will change your state, is good for your overall health and will boost your mood. Take a walk (solo or with your kids), do a short yoga routine (I love Yoga with Adriene for just me or Cosmic Kids will work if your kids are joining you) or do a quick High Intensity Interval Training workout (set up a circuit at home that your kids can join in)
Tip 2: Let Yourself Off the Hook
Give yourself permission to say No, take a break or do a mediocre job. Sometimes, we have such high expectations of ourselves that we forget to offer ourselves the same grace that we would extend to our kids, friends or colleagues. Give yourself a break.
Tip 3: Call a friend
A quick chat with a good friend is a quick way to feel connected and loved. If it’s the last thing you feel like doing, you probably need it the most. Be upfront and say you’ve only got ten minutes but you wanted to chat. I bet you will hang up with a smile on your face.
Tip 4: Get outside
There’s a reason that the saying “Stop and smell the roses” is so famous and timeless. Slowing down to appreciate the simplest things while being fully present brings us back to that wonder and magic we experienced as children. Go our for a walk with the intention of finding something beautiful- and you will find it.
Tip 5: Stop procrastinating
Putting things off can cause unnecessary stress. Make a To Do list of things you’ve been meaning to get to and then find 3 things that will take 3 minutes or less. Set a timer for 10 minutes and cross them off your list. Celebrate your accomplishment and enjoy feeling a little lighter.
Tip 6: Chug some water
Most of us live in a state of constant dehydration. When you are dehydrated you may feel fatigued, like you have brain fog or even be in a bad mood. This is one of the simplest ways to care for your physical self and can be done anywhere, anytime. If you want to treat yourself, you could grab a pretty water bottle to keep with you as a reminder.
Tip 7: Bring nature indoors
In the chilly winter months, having some greenery indoors can boost your mood. Whether it’s a little succulent for your desk, a nice big monstera for your living room or fresh cut flowers for your kitchen- a little nature can bring a lot of happiness
Tip 8: Put some music on
Blast some tunes from a particularly happy time in your life. I know I can’t help but sing and dance when I play Hits from 1995 on Spotify. Let yourself fully enjoy the moment…even if it’s a party of one in your car.
Tip 9: Remind yourself why you are awesome
You can make a list, say it out loud or just reminisce about the great qualities you have, the moments you have made a difference or the things you have accomplished
Tip 10: Meditate or rest
Quiet your mind. All the little things can wait. Find a guided meditation to follow along with on YouTube or simply allow yourself a chance to lay down and rest.
The Last Thing You Need to Know about Self Care
The most important point to remember is that self care isn’t selfish. Taking time everyday to check in with yourself and do something that feels good is worth your time. Daily self love woven into your routine will keep you feeling more balanced and happy!
Share this with a friend you appreciate!