As I was combing through my blog archives, deciding what would stay, and what would go, I almost sent this one to the trash. Then, something compelled me to read it.
I laughed at the (very enthusiastic) conversational tone, and the multitude of exclamation points; a lot of “unnecessary” peppered throughout.
What I felt, however, was a deep appreciation for the girl who wrote that post. I have grown up a lot since then, but the practices I recommended still hold value today.
The term “self-love” has gotten a lot of buzz in recent years. I decided to change the title to self-care, because that seems more accurate. Self-love comes from within. Caring for yourself is a means of showing yourself love; there is a difference.
From wherever you stand, I hope that these tips are as beneficial to you as they have been to me.
Clean Up Your Space
Marie Kondo created an empire around this concept. As she says, “Tidy your space, transform your life”. The KonMari method centers around one question: “Does this item spark joy”. Yes; keep it. No; let it go and bless it for serving you, on its way out the door. This is an effective practice.
If you are looking for an equally effective practice, simply clean up your space – and save the questioning and blessing for a later time (Do try it, though.). Ten minutes of concentrated organizing will work wonders for your mind.
In my case, I am a much more creative person when my surroundings are neat and organized.
Buy Yourself Flowers
According to this article via Psychology Today, flowers trigger the happy chemicals (dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin) in our brains. Who are we to argue with science?
Having flowers around will not only enhance your physical environment, but serve as a reminder of the beautiful, breathing, outside world too. I find the latter especially necessary for me, as I work from home and can easily get stuck inside.
I make it a point to buy myself a bouquet at least once a week. And if that is not an option, I pick one instead. The article above goes on to suggest taking a hike to seek out wildflowers; the exercise will further enhance those brain-boosting chemicals.
Move Your Body
See above. I am pretty sure that no one needs another dissertation on the mood-boosting, body-altering, benefits of exercise.
So…do it,…you know?
Even knowing these things, it can be challenging for me to motivate myself, but it is a truism that I have never regretted a workout. I enjoy running or practicing yoga.
A particular note on yoga: I am of the opinion that it heals, it saves. Yoga creates unity between mind and body, strengthening both in the process. One of the additional advantages of yoga is that it helps to release tension.
At the end of a recent practice, I had the experience of crying my eyes out on my mat. This is a common phenomenon. I had no idea I did (or perhaps how much I did…), but I needed that to happen. It was a beautiful feeling to let go of so much of what I had been holding onto.
Make (or Prep) a Clean Meal
You are what you eat. There are days when I am more green juice, and others when I am more macaroni & cheese. I reserve a place for both, but I know that I am the best version of myself when I lean toward (clean and) green.
The brain/gut relationship is real.
The easiest way for me to ensure that I eat whole, unprocessed foods more often than not, is to prep. I prefer to shop a farmers market, but even after a trip to the grocery store, I come home and sort everything. I wash and chop greens, peel and stem fruit, place herbs in water, and batch cook beans or grains. Preparation is the key to success.
Develop a Morning Routine
The way in which you wake up has the potential to set the tone for your entire day.
I like to rise (and preferably shine) with the sun, when the world is quiet.
My morning routine involves a steaming cup of coffee, meditation, prayer, stretching, writing, and a skincare regimen. This might sound like a lot to accomplish, but the whole thing takes 30-35 minutes at most. I feel at peace when I am finished, and prepared to take on whatever comes at me.
Setting this time aside for myself – first thing – in turn allows me to show up more fully for the people that I love, as well. That is what we call a win-win.
Adopt a Beauty Ritual
There are so many options to choose from here. Dry brushing is my choice as it promotes lymphatic drainage, reduces the appearance of cellulite, and leaves skin smoother overall.
Here are a few more at-home ideas: a face mask or facial massage, an essential oil bath, or a leave-in conditioning hair treatment.
Another ritual that I adore, that is entirely free, is to look in the mirror and say “I love you” to yourself. Repeat this over and over again until you believe it, and watch how every aspect of your life changes once you do; this is powerful.
Connect with a Loved One
One of the most significant things you can do for yourself is to be reminded of why you are here in the first place; to connect and to love. There is nothing else that really matters in the larger scheme of things.
Call your Mom. Have a lunch date with your best friend. Take a walk with your boyfriend.
When we were living in Grand Cayman, taking a morning walk was my favorite thing to do with my boyfriend. We are “plant people” so it was fun for us to note everything growing in our neighborhood. We would talk about our plans for the day; the happenings in our lives. It was our time together, with the added benefits of sunshine and endorphins. What could be better than that?
Tap Into Spirit
This can take shape in whatever form spirit resonates with you. It could be via meditation or your yoga practice, in a Sunday morning spent at church, or through a walk in nature. We all need something to believe in; something to return to.
I find that reading can also be a spiritual practice. Have you ever read something and it strikes a chord deep within you; to the point that you are nodding your head in agreement? I like to think of this as spirit in action.
