Self-care is a big-time buzz word but it’s one you shouldn’t ignore. When we practice self-care we avoided burnout. In other words, we place the oxygen mask on ourselves first so we can make sure to help everyone around us in an emergency.
Here are Five Self-Care Ideas:
Take a Bath: We’ve moved a lot in the past several years and I finally have a tub again! For many years baths were for when I was in a hotel, alone. Baths are always a great way to sit quietly in a space where people can’t ask you to do much. You’re wet and soapy and locked behind a door. It’s perfect for being unavailable. Plus the warm water will help sore muscles. Grab a magazine or listen to a podcast while you unwind.
Read: I love to read, especially when I can be outside or when I can wrap up and drink some coffee. We have a great library loan system here and I’m a kindle deal junkie too. I will say, though, I don’t like reading books that make me cry!
Take a Long Walk: Living in the mountains and then near gorgeous forest preserves has given me a whole new appreciation for walking. The scenery is always stunning and even when it rains it’s not a hindrance. With temperatures that rarely rise to 90 degrees, it’s always the perfect weather to hit the trails.
Get a Pedicure: One thing about living in the south is that I’ve become very conscious of when I don’t have painted toes. That’s partly due to the fact I wear sandals more often and partly due to people commenting whenever my toes are bare. 🙂 Regardless I love having someone else work on my feet ever so often!
Schedule Girl Time: Whether it’s grabbing a coffee, lunch, a pedicure, a walk, or a glass of wine, time with my girlfriends always includes time to laugh and reflect. The fall often includes significant space for girl time with football in full swing, and a busy calendar, self-care is necessary.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on July 22, 2016, and has been updated in January 2021 for freshness, accuracy, and completeness.
I hate our tub; it is just not comfortable. My one requirement for our next home is a nice tub! Whenever I visit my parent’s house or stay at a place that has a tub with jets – I take a bath! I too also feel conscience when I have naked toes. Great list!!
Yes to all of these (except the bath. I’m tall and our tub is small.)! If I could read a book while getting a pedicure with my girlfriends–that would be GOLD, BABY! Thanks for linking up!