Remember to slow down and take care of yourself by keeping your heart happy. Here are some great self-care tips to help you feel the love throughout tough times.
1. Read a book
There are few things that feel better than getting lost in a really good book. As people get older, they spend less and less time reading for fun. So, let’s get back to basics and read something because we want to, not because we have to. Head to your local bookstore and browse for your new favorite or download an e-book online.
2. Cook your favorite meal
There was probably something specific that popped into your mind when you read “favorite meal.” Is it something slurp-worthy? Hearty and warming? Sweet and satisfying? Whatever it is, make it at home tonight. Cooking a seriously delicious meal can give you a huge sense of accomplishment that’s sure to make your heart and your tummy happy!
3. Meditate
Meditating is arguably one of the best forms of self-care out there. It may seem silly or frustrating at first, but taking even one moment to shut out the world and be alone with your thoughts and your breath can do wonders for both your mental and physical health. If you have no idea how to meditate or where to start, trying downloading a guided meditation app, and get ready to get your zen on!
4. Clean
Take a page out of Marie Kondo’s tidying philosophy and start de-cluttering. This might just seem like another chore, but there are serious benefits to clearing out some clutter. It’ll give you that same sense of accomplishment while also helping you to de-stress. It’s been shown that cleaning has a calming effect on the mind, because cleaning up our external environment can help us feel like we’re cleaning up our psyche. It’s also a great way to boost your mood – cleaning can get you working up a sweat and burning calories, and in doing so, your brain releases endorphins, which are the feel-good chemicals. This can give you a sense of reduced stress and anxiety, and can improve your mood.
5. Pamper yourself
There are so many ways that you can do this. Have a bath, treat yourself to a massage or do that face mask that’s been sitting in your drawer for weeks – it could be as simple as swiping on your favorite lipstick. Just find something that you know will make you feel happy. We often get so caught up in our day-to-day that we forget to take care of ourselves. No matter what you choose to do, you can rest assured that you’ll be feeling a glow inside and out after this step!
