I don’t know about you, but my body always tells me when I haven’t been doing enough self-care. Whether I haven’t been eating well, moving my body enough, meditating regularly, or getting in enough fun, my body is always gracious enough to inform me. I may feel very fatigued, feel melancholy, gain a few pounds, have puffy fingers, or just feel achy. I try to listen…and usually do. But when life gets busy or things we don’t expect happen, it can be hard to fit that self-care in, as well as having big impacts.
Self-care is important and often overlooked. It's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of responsibilities and forget to take care of ourselves. But remember, my friend, you can't pour from an empty cup. So, I'm here to gently remind you to take some time out for yourself, to recharge and rejuvenate. Because your well-being matters, and self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity.
We all know that eating right, drinking lots of water, exercising, and getting enough sleep are essential for our well-being. But I thought I would share some unique and unconventional ways that you can show yourself some love.
1. Get Rid of Those Toxic People In Your Life: This was the first one that came to me. This is essential. When you surround yourself with positive people you are more likely to feel motivated, inspired, and confident in pursuing your goals and dreams. Eliminating toxic people will make space to bring in those with positive energy, and their optimism can be contagious. Positive people believe in your abilities and encourage you to push beyond your limits. With their support, your mental health and overall well-being improves, and you can overcome obstacles and face challenges head-on.Surrounding yourself with positive people creates a nurturing environment where you can thrive and grow and stop doubting your self-worth. Along with doing your own inner work, their presence reminds you that anything is possible and that you are capable of achieving greatness.
2. Declutter A Space: Clean your fridge, declutter your closet, or organize that junk drawer! I fully believe that clutter lends to stagnant, old, and negative energy in a space. Because clutter can create a sense of overwhelm, decluttering will help reduce stress and anxiety. A cluttered space is a cluttered mind. When your physical surroundings are organized, it becomes easier to think clearly, make decisions, and prioritize tasks effectively. This allows for better focus and concentration, leading to increased creativity and productivity, fresh ideas and new perspectives.
Now, I just don’t talk the talk, I walk the walk too. I recently cleared out and organized two closets. For me, I was so overwhelmed, I decided to reach out to professional certified organizer, Lorese Comer Harper owner of Neat Nest. We started with the big walk-in. That was such a huge job. Then we tackled my clothes closet in my bedroom because it was a hot mess. I couldn’t concentrate or find anything. And, I noticed I wasn’t sleeping well either. She was awesome and great to work with. It was great having another perspective and guidance. Scroll to the end for before and after pics.
That act of self-care has made an incredible difference. The energy in those spaces is like night and day. They feel light and airy and, my mind feels clearer as well. In addition, I’m finally sleeping better.
3. Get That Crystal Reiki Session: Getting a crystal reiki energy healing offers numerous benefits. Not only does it feel good, it enhances energy flow, promotes relaxation and stress relief. Crystal Reiki also balances and aligns chakras, and aids in emotional healing and release. In addition, it supports physical healing and pain relief, and fosters spiritual growth and connection.
4. Make Mondays “Monday Me Day”: Ok, it doesn’t have to be Mondays. But, dedicate time each week for yourself, where you can engage in activities that recharge and rejuvenate you. This can be as simple as taking a long bath, reading a book, or going for a peaceful walk in nature.
5. Take a Technology Break: This may seem like a no brainer. But, spend a day or even a few hours without any electronic devices. Allow yourself to be fully present in the real world and reduce the pressure of comparison and information overload. This can help lower stress and improve mental health. It’s also a great break for your brain and eyes too!
6. Get Some House Plants: I LOVE my houseplants. They bring me joy and brighten up my home. Houseplants clean the air and add ambience, and provide me a sense of accomplishment when I see them grow. Did you know that studies have shown that having house plants increases concentration and productivity by 15%? So, there’s another reason to bring these into your life.
7. Get Creative: Engaging in the process of creating art allows you to tap into your inner creativity and explore different forms of self-expression. Whether it's painting, drawing, sculpting, or even writing, art provides a unique outlet for channeling your thoughts and emotions. Art can also serve as a means of self-discovery, helping you gaininsights into your own thoughts, beliefs, and values. It encourages introspection and reflection, fostering personal growth and a deeper understanding of yourself.
8. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Do something you’ve always wanted to do. You never know where it may lead. When I decided to go to that first dance class, it was an hour away. And I was all by myself. But I had no idea how many friends, love and joy it would bring into my life.
9. Start a Gratitude Journal: Write downthings you're grateful for each day. This can help shift your focus from negative thoughts to positive ones. Over time, you’ll notice how you’ve become more positive and that things always tend to work out.
10. Try Sound Therapy: Listening to certain frequencies can help reduce stress and improve mental clarity. They also help balance your chakras and clear out negative and stagnant energy. Plus taking time out of your day, helps with relaxation and gives the body a chance to rest.
Remember, self-care is not a luxury, it's a necessity. It's about taking time for yourself, to rejuvenate and recharge. Try these alternative self-care practices and discover what works best for you. And NEVER let anyone make you feel guilty for doing so.