Self-care is Self-love

Self care is more than taking care of your hygiene. It’s more than just another thing on the to-do list. Self care is more than just working out, eating healthy and getting plenty of water. We are so busy taking care of others, via work or home life, that we often forget to take care of ourselves. Self care is an act of love to ourselves. Self care is doing what makes us feel at peace, helps us to be more mindful and leaves us with a feeling that life is worth living. It should make us feel alive. 

Here is a quick list of some of my favorites. If you already do some of these, I encourage you to set the intention of doing it solely for you. For example, if you enjoy tea - that’s your cup of tea, no one else's. If you put on your favorite show, be aware that it's your favorite and this is time you cut out for you. Or perhaps you will see something that you have put off, I hope this is a sign to indulge. 

• Talk to a friend or family member on the phone or in person

• Hang out with a friend or family member

• Send a message to a friend or family member

• Celebrate something

• Exercise (bike, hike, kayak, swim, jog, lift weights, pilates, yoga)

• Stretch your muscles

• Go for a walk

• Eat your favorite dessert

• Spend time in nature, or somewhere peaceful

• Take a nap

• Go outside and watch the clouds go by

• Learn something new that interests you (new hobby, new language, new recipe)

• Buy something you have saved up for

• Sit in the sun, as much as possible

• Plan a trip (it can be local)

• Go to the spa or do a at home spa day/treatment

• Read a good book (go to the library or bookstore)

• Go get your favorite coffee or tea

• Visit a museum or art gallery

• Go to a park

• Meditate, manifest, pray

• Join a group

• Listen to music

• Go to a concert or watch a concert on YouTube

• Write a letter to yourself or to your higher power or to someone you care about

• Cook your favorite meal/dish

• Eat from your favorite restaurant 

• Watch a comedy or stand up

• Watch a movie you love or watch one you’ve never seen (you don't have to finish it) 

• Go to a sporting event

• Build a puzzle

• Get a massage

• Go for a ride

• Eat chocolate or candy - mindfully. Really enjoy it

• Do a grateful list (I actually say this to myself daily)

• Journal - full sentences or bullet point, your choice

• Sing out loud 

• Dance

• Garden

• Be barefoot outside

• Take a bath or long shower

• Work on something you enjoy 

• Be creative - draw, paint, crochet, sew, color, scrapbook 

What self care looks like to each person will be different. But I’m sure this list gives you a starting point. My best advice for self care is asking “What will serve me best in this moment?”, listening to what resonates and acting on it.

Sincerely,

Sarah