how do you self-care?
self-care can look different for everyone. It’s not about following what’s popular on instagram (the cliche; taking bubble baths, although I do LOVE myself a bubble bath).
self-care is about tuning in deep into yourself and figuring out what you NEED, what makes you happy, what fuels your soul, mind, passion, spirit, and body.
It’s about taking the best care of yourself possible.
Here are just a few ways I take care of myself. These practices help me tune back into myself and my intuition, guide me through harder times, and help me simply be, which is the point of it all, right?
- Positive Affirmations.
I am beautiful. I am loved. I am supported. I am talented. I am enough.
Your thoughts are powerful. The way you speak and feel about yourself will radiate into every aspect of your life. Never forget that you get to determine your self worth, so why not value yourself at the highest standard possible? Know that you are deserving. You are worth it. And if you don’t know it yet, keep repeating positive affirmations to yourself, until you begin to believe it.
Yoga
Yoga at the beach may possibly be my favorite thing ever. I sometimes dread going to yoga classes and definitely don’t go to them enough, but every time I do, my body is vibrant with a sense of calm and peace. It’s the most wonderful feeling in the world. Take the time to connect your movement with your breath to get in touch with your breath and body. Flow with the sound of the waves. Close your eyes and find your inner stillness and inner peace as you move and stretch your body in ways you could not imagine.
- Meditation
I tried to meditate for years, but couldn’t find it in myself to dedicate time to a regular practice. However, when I moved from California to Connecticut a couple months ago I finally gave myself the challenge of meditating every single days for 30 days straight. It’s amazing what 10 minutes of stillness every day did for my mind and soul. It helped with my anxiety, my intuition, and really connected me with the universe. I found myself craving it. Now I try to start every morning with 30 minutes of free writing (my morning pages) and 10 minutes of meditation.
- Podcasts & Walks/Working out
I recently started loving podcasts. It’s been a great way for me to feel like I’m learning something and is the perfect activity to accompany either a workout or a long walk. I listen to them mostly at the gym or even when I’m doing my HIIT workouts at home. My favorite podcasts are Soul on Fire by The Balanced Blonde, The Compass by Leah Walsh, Office Hours with Kate Lumpkin, and IGNTD by Sophie and Adit Jaffe. Podcasts during my post-grad transition really helped me feel less alone and like I was surrounded by a community because I was engaged in topics that I feel passionate about.
- Quality alone time
Spending time alone is really when I take care of myself because it allows me the time and space to do the things I want to do without having any concerns of others. I am a deep thinker, so it allows me to process my thoughts and feelings. I noticed when I’m with other people, I don’t think as much, which is great when I want a break from myself, but a lot of the time, I need that alone time to pause, to reflect, to be with myself in a deep and loving way. I used to always say that I am in a caring and loving relationship with myself, and it’s true. It will always be true. You should be the most important person in your life because you’re the one that has to deal with yourself 24/7. Let that be a joyous experience.
- Oil Massages
After I shower, I lather myself with coconut oil. It’s a wonderful way to feel my body. It’s important for me to show my body love and I do that simply by touching it. I massage, caress, and explore my body, thanking it for all that it does for me by nourishing it with oil. It makes me feel so good and clean and I love taking that time to spend loving on my body.
- Eating Well and Drinking Water
Sometimes this means eating a balanced diet of protein, carbs, and vegetables and eating really clean. I don’t like processed foods and sugary foods and generally eat super clean. I love grilled chicken, sweet potatoes, rice, roasted veggies, etc. However, sometimes this means “treating” myself and eating chocolate or a boston kreme donut (my fave). It means loving myself enough to allow myself the pleasure of food, no matter how many “calories” are in it or not. I also drink a lot of water (about 3-4 liters a day). I have a 1 liter bottle from BKR and I can’t live without it. It’s the best investment I own.
Like I said, self-care is ultimately about what makes you feel good. The way I take care of myself changes day to day because I listen to what my needs are telling me that day and I do whatever will make me feel good that day.
These practices are more general and what I do to feel good on a more consistent basis, but by no means do I follow these to a T every day.
Today for example, I ate way too much food and a bunch of cheese at a pizza restaurant with my friends instead of working out.
Even though I’m lactose intolerant and cheese doesn’t make me feel good, I knew the way I wanted to take care of myself today was spending time with friends and indulging in delicious food at a restaurant I had been wanting to try. Next time, should I choose a healthier option that will make me feel better in the long run?
Sure, but the other thing about self-care is knowing that you’re not perfect and loving yourself anyways.
Mermaid Musings 