5 Ways to Practice Self Care

Now more than ever, practicing self care is one of the most important things we can do for our minds, bodies, and sanity. We are all in this together and we will all get through these trying times. We will learn, we will grow, and together we will rise up stronger than ever. However, it is especially important to take care of yourself. Oftentimes, when we hear about self care, our minds automatically go to a service at a spa or something similar. Don’t get me wrong, there is absolutely nothing wrong with pampering yourself at a day spa, but self care doesn’t always mean having to spend money. Sometimes money may be tight or the thought of making an appointment and trying to coordinate a schedule might be stressful. Here are a few ways you can indulge in self care right now.

Journal

The best part about journaling is it can literally be about anything you want and no one ever has to know. If there’s a specific style of writing you enjoy practicing try scheduling 30 minutes one day a week. Free writing is my favorite style of writing. The point of free writing is to keep writing without stopping, if your mind blanks on the thought you were on, you just keep writing whatever comes in mind next. It is really neat to see where your mind takes you with this exercise. There is no right or wrong way to free write as long as you keep writing. Also, if you have trouble expressing yourself or your feelings, journaling is a great way to get those feelings and maybe even some frustrations down on paper without having to verbalize them. 

Take a Bath

Bath time as a kid used to be the best part of the night! Why can’t it be the best part of the night as an adult? Sure baths take time, so make it a once or twice a week event for yourself. Mix some of your favorite relaxing essential oils in with epsom salt or try a new bath fizz. I recently found a local shop that has “unicorn dust” and “dinosaur dirt” and it is my absolute new favorite thing ever! They smell amazing and turn the water into a colorful fizz filled spa. Bring a book or magazine and let yourself slip away from the real world, or light a few candles, close your eyes and enjoy the peace and quiet for yourself.

Workout

Workouts are a perfect way to clear your mind and hit the refresh button for your body. Work out your emotions after a long, hard, or frustrating day. Use a work out to celebrate new achievements or keep a good mood fresh. Your body will thank you with energy later and help with a better night sleep. If you ever need motivation to work out, I can almost guarantee anyone you ask will almost always tell you to go do it and you will feel better. 

Eat Well

Eating is one of the core components of self-care because it is nurturing our bodies to exist, literally. How much we eat, what, and when can play a role in how we feel and show up every single day. Food affects our performance and energy levels and it can impact our mood. Nourishing with a balance of proteins and healthy fats throughout the day will help your body get what it needs to perform. Food also helps to provide comfort and satisfaction, but remember to only indulge in ‘cheat’ meals 20% of the time or twice per week. 

Get Plenty of Rest

Getting a good night’s sleep or a great nap is arguably one of my favorite things in the world. Sleep is paramount for our health and serves as another perfect reset button. I used to think I was sleeping way too much, but in talking with my doctor, I learned everyone’s bodies have different needs and it’s perfectly ok for adults to get 6-10 hours of sleep a night. Sleeping without an alarm also helps to put your mind at ease. Allow yourself to disconnect and get the deep sleep you deserve, even if it is only a couple hour nap. 

Thanks for reading. I’d love to hear from you: missintl2020@gmail.com Stay happy, healthy, and grounded Mind. Heart. Body.

Megan Vladic

Miss International 2020