Self-care (defined as: the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one’s own health) can mean different things to different people. Whilst the foods we choose to put on our plates and our exercise routines are a huge part of having a healthy life, true wellness comes from emotional and mental health too. Whilst getting facials and massages is a great way to inject some self-care into your life (and one of my June goals) these aren’t things that I have time to do regularly. I believe that self-care should be prioritised every day – it just comes down to looking for the little ways to ‘take five’ for yourself throughout even the busiest of days.
// Skincare
I might not be able to get a massage and/or facial once a week – but I can relish doing my skincare routine every evening. In the morning I take more of a slap dash approach as I’m usually in a rush, but my evening skincare routine is a real opportunity for me to just take a few minutes to really love and pamper my skin (and thus myself).
// Dog Walks
Whilst this isn’t exactly optional, taking my dogs for a walk is something that has recently become quite therapeutic for me. For a long time I’d dread coming home from work and having to rush out the door to walk them, I’d be hungry and tired and never get much enjoyment from it – particularly now that it’s dark in Melbourne when I get home from work. However, my husband and I are now in a much better routine as we walk the dogs together after dinner – it’s a nice way for us to let our food settle after we’ve eaten, and we’re generally just much more enthusiastic about it as a result. Timing makes all the difference!
// Cooking
I’m the chef in our house, and provided I have enough time, I find cooking incredibly relaxing. I’ve taken a lot of enjoyment in the last few months looking for and trialing new recipes, and even on nights where I’m a bit rushed – I still enjoy whipping up quick and easy classics. I like to light candles in my kitchen whilst I cook and will sometimes watch a show at the same time. It’s proven to be a really good way to have some time to myself as my husband is more than happy to stay out of the kitchen.
// Podcasts
I’ve loved listening to podcasts for the longest time but took a break when I got really bored of listening to crime podcasts. The last few months I’ve loved listening to podcasts on my walk to and from work but tend to go for more lifestyle based content as it’s light and easy to dip in an out of. I’m going to share my favourite podcasts in a post in the near future, but one of my most loved is The High Low.
// Cleaning
This must be something that has come with age, but I find that cleaning can often be a great way for me to give myself some self-care time. Not only is the act of cleaning relaxing (good when combined with a podcast) but it also leaves my house looking tidy and inviting which is also really good for my mind. I hate having a messy house – it can really effect my mental happiness – so I make sure to always make our bed in the morning and tidy up before I go to sleep to make sure I’m putting myself in the right head space.
How do you find time for self-care throughout the day?
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