Life can be stressful. This is something I know we can all agree on. Whether it be sixteen overdue assignments, obnoxious customers at work, or, you know, living through a fucking pandemic, you need time for a break to take care of yourself. Taking a break is healthy as it allows you to recharge and keeps you from burning out. Breaks are also a form of self-care, however, that is not the only time that you should be taking care of yourself. Self-care should be a part of your life, like eating or breathing, as we should routinely take the time to care for ourselves. So, I am sharing some of my favorite self-care practices to encourage everybody to take some time for themselves today and every day.
Having a cup of tea
One of my favorite self-care practices is having a cup of tea. How is having a cup of tea self-care? Well, it’s more so in the way I drink it. Having a cup of tea and relaxing in my backyard is one of my favorite activities in the morning. It gives me a moment to just relax and breathe before beginning my day. I also like to use this time to journal about however I have been feeling. It allows me to have time to take a breath, self-reflect, and enjoy a good cup of tea.
Exercising
You should be active at least 45 minutes a day. No, this is not me saying you have to do 45 minutes of hardcore cardio a day or telling you how to live as I am not a doctor. However, being active is a form of self-care because you are showing your body you love it by moving it and giving it a chance to exercise. There are many easy ways you can implement exercise whether it be taking a walk during your lunch break, yoga before you start your day, or playing just dance (all of which I do and enjoy). Before I started exercising daily, I did not realize how much of my time I spent sitting or laying down. Even while you're watching a movie, just stand up and do some simple exercises. It will make all the difference to you and your body.
Burning a candle
Okay, this one might seem confusing but it always makes me feel better. Whether it be in your room, your home office, or just your living space in general, burning a candle always soothes me. It’s something about creating a new fresh smell that relaxes my body and it can allow you to take your senses to a new setting whether you’re working or just relaxing. It doesn’t even have to be a candle, though I know that’s what many people prefer. I actually prefer incense because I like the smells better and the smoke but my mom prefers wax warmers which heat up beautifully smelling wax. You could also opt for a diffuser and use essential oils. Anything to freshen up your space and make you feel good.
Painting
I have recently found a love for painting, even though I am not particularly skilled. I love trying new things — especially things I have no knowledge about — because it opens up a new world of knowledge for me to explore. Painting has been one of those things in the last few months that I have gotten into doing and it is so relaxing. After a full day of work, school, interning, or whatever else I have going on, it is nice to wind down in the evenings with a good paint sesh. It doesn’t have to be painting either! I find anything I can do while just listening to an audiobook or some music and just focus on the task is sooo relaxing. So whether it’s painting or some other hobby, taking time out to just let yourself do something you enjoy is super important!
Smoking weed
Okay so, this one is a bit controversial for several reasons. First of all, I am not saying to use weed as a coping mechanism. I know a lot of us who tend to do it but I would not encourage it and if possible would suggest seeking professional guidance if you are dealing with too much emotional turmoil if it is available to you. However, at the end of a long day, and in a controlled manner, allowing yourself to have a blunt and relax with a good movie is not a bad thing. I love weed but I know it is still taboo for a lot of people. So whether it be a glass of wine or a blunt at the end of the day to wind down, I say why not. Allow yourself to enjoy life.
These are just some of my favorite self-care practices but what are yours? What are the little things you enjoy? Spend time trying to figure it out and actively cater to yourself. What makes you feel good? What makes you feel relaxed? Think about it and remember to take care of yourself every day!
