START AND END YOUR DAY BY COUNTING YOUR BLESSINGS
In yesterday’s blog post, I shared ways to get started with self-care. Creating habits and adding activities to your calendar help increase your chances of sticking with your new routine. Another way to keep things interesting is to treat yourself to things you’ve always wanted to do. Adding new experiences to your self-care routine is like giving yourself a little gift every day. It’s a great way to stay motivated to do things to care for yourself. If you are looking to improve your self-care habits, there are quite a few activities you can do.
Pamper Yourself
Taking physical care of oneself in a pampering way makes one feel good. Pampering is a go-to for many people when it comes to their self-care routine. Think of something you’ve never done before. It doesn’t have to be expensive. A small act of indulgence can have the same effect as an extravagant one. Maybe consider scheduling a manicure if you’ve never had one. A bubble bath with candles can be soothing if this is something you don’t do very often. If your budget and the conditions will allow, a spa day with a friend could rejuvenate your body and spirit.
Try Sensory Activities
When you are working on self-care for stress relief, one thing to note is that sensory activities can have a really beneficial effect. You should try to find activities that use different senses, like touch, smell, taste, or sight. Perhaps you want to have a bonfire at the beach, which is going to use multiple senses. You can smell the fire and the saltwater in the ocean, see the flames, feel the warmth and the wind from the ocean, and possibly even taste salt in the air. Try to find activities that really awaken your senses.
Exercise on a Regular Basis
Exercising regularly is good for your body and your mind, and can do wonders for stress. If you have a lot of mental stress, you can improve your mood and feel happier by releasing endorphins. You can choose a type of workout that helps you take better care of your physical and mental health, whether you relax during yoga, have fun while dancing, or get some quiet time by going for a walk or hike. Think of exercises you enjoy doing, but that will also give you that time alone that you really need.
Do Creative Activities
Another way to practice self-care is to find creative activities or a hobby that you may enjoy. If you used to draw or paint, isn’t it time to rekindle your interest in doing those now? Just because you’re older and have other responsibilities, doesn’t mean you have to let go of your favorite things to do. Have a sketchbook handy and draw something when you feel like it. Get adult coloring books and some colored pencils and bring them anywhere, like the train or the bus.
You can also try different types of crafts you enjoy doing, like making wreaths for family as holiday gifts or doing some baking. Try to find ways to release your inner creative energy, no matter what that entails. You will feel better by doing something you love, plus you get some quality time that helps to relieve stress at the same time. This is really hard to beat.
Celebrate Today
Most of us don’t buy ourselves presents very often or even give ourselves little treats. You can change that starting now. Think of something within your budget you’ve been wanting for a while now. Then give yourself permission to buy it. Maybe it’s that snazzy pair of shoes you’ve had your eye on or the smartphone upgrade that would make your life easier. Giving yourself one gift, no matter how small, can be a boost to your self-worth.
Enjoy the Little Things
The tiniest gestures can be the most meaningful. Indulging in small free or low-cost treats allows you to spoil yourself more often. What are some little things you’ve never done for yourself that you can start adding to your life today? Have you ever bought yourself flowers? Give it a try. You’ll get a boost every time you see that beautiful bouquet on your table or desk. Think of your favorite food item, the one you have on special occasions. Why not make one day a week a little more special by trying a new version of it? Self-care really doesn’t have to be on a grand scale. Get creative with it.
Adding new experiences to your self-care routine keeps things interesting and can also help make them more meaningful. Novelty will also expand your world and enrich your life. Have fun!