“I need to be selfish.”
When these words come from a potential boyfriend, anyone’s initial reaction would be panic and devastation.
Ok maybe I speak only for myself because frankly I was shocked as I heard these five words and thought: “how can being selfish be a good thing?”
A part of me immediately dismissed this notion but over time when the anger and disappointment of things not working out finally left me – I got it. He was right – prioritising oneself is key because you can’t give from a proverbial empty cup.
Self-care is an essential part of our well being. It’s important to pay attention to yourself as it helps you to feel more connected to yourself and those around you.
This month, because it’s my birthday month, I’ve made a decision to be kinder to my self and have some self-care activities which I hope you can also adopt in your self-care routine:
- Unwind – tea makes it all ok – add some lemon and mint and some delish biscuits and you’re good to go.
- Escape – my budget doesn’t allow for weekends away so I’ve chosen the more affordable way – I read.
- Mediate – I find this one challenging. It’s hard for me to quieten the mind but if you can take a few minutes each day to reflect, it all adds up.
- Pamper – painting my nails while watching something on TV is a nice way to treat myself. From soaking, to scrubbing then moisturising my feet – it’s really the little things.
- Treat – a good glass of red, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate and spicy snacks are my go to after an exhausting day. Whatever the problem is, I’ll find the solution at the end of the glass.
- Write – ever since grade 6 English class, I’ve been keeping a journal. Writing helps me to ‘talk’ about my feelings without any judgement. I also love reading back past entries and giggle about some of the crazy things I’ve overcome.
- Record – count your blessings. Last year I read about keeping a good things jar and I started one this year. Each time something good happens, I write it on a sticky note and place it in the jar – when the year ends I’ll open it up and look back at all the lovely things that have happened.
- Listen – music is an amazing way to help lift the spirit. Despite the mood I’m in, when certain songs come through the speakers, I immediately feel good.
- Unplug – switch the phone off, go outside and watch the clouds float by.
When self-care becomes part of your routine, you’ll feel less stressed; you become happier and are able to deal with situations more positively. Luckily good vibes are contagious so the people around you will be grateful too.
Please share some of your self-care activities with me so I can add them to my list.
icherryefresh 