Note: This post may contain affiliate links and Sprinkle of Care may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you when you click and purchase an item from the link.
It's so easy to get caught up in the chaos of our everyday routine, that it's quite easy quickly forget to check in with yourself. With the year just flying by, I want to challenge you to keep yourself in your thoughts just like everyone and everything else in your list.
If you're already walking around with bags under your eyes and tucking hair kinks under your "I'm trying to adult by the skin of my teeth" hairdo, then you are in dire NEED to self-care as a means to survive this year.
I got you bestie! Here are 10 self-care ideas that you are going to want to try!
1. Find a Comfort Drink
Your starting point has endless opportunities! This could be a favorite iced coffee, tea, smoothie or even a refreshing lemonade. Having a comforting go-to drink can give you something to look forward to in your day or week, especially when you're feeling a little stressed out or have a very hectic schedule.
It is a simple pleasure that makes a world of difference. You don't have to limit yourself to just one drink, just make sure that every time you take a sip of whatever drink you choose, you're truly enjoying the moment.
Go all out with your drink accessories too. Get yourself a cute aesthetic mug screams your personality or that brings a smile to your face every time you reach for it. This way, when you pick up your drink, it is a visual reminder that this is your personal moment with yourself.
2. Take a Picture for the Season!
Depending on where you live and when you're reading this, the season may vary. I live in South Florida and it's pretty much palm trees and sunshine year-round over here. However, the "'tis the season" feels is totally up to you. Aim for a location that speaks the best vibes you wish to capture for your photo goals.
Don't be shy to strike a few glamour or fun poses wherever you choose to go, whether you're in solitude or in a crowded area. If you lean towards the shy kind, drag that reliable friend who knows how to bring that foxy side out of you. Pose and flash!
3. Find a Favorite Accessory
Getting a fun accessory that screams your personality can be just the perfect pick-me-up. Dressing up with accessories can really uplift your spirits, regardless of the occasion. You don't need to go to a special event to put on accessories and feel good about yourself. Simply find items that resonate with you and that you can wear anytime, anywhere. This can be putting on a pair of cute earrings, a stylish sling bag, or oversized shades.
The possibilities are endless within your wardrobe. Styling and creating your aesthetics does can be as simple as incorporating little hints of your personality and what makes you happy in your everyday wear.
Small details in your wardrobe build on personal confidence and motivate you to look and feel fabulous everywhere you go.
4. Freshen Up Your Space with Scented Aromas
Candles keep my sanity throughout the year! Sometimes we need to practice mindful breathing and taking in a moment when we get home. A good scented candle does the trick for me.
Some of my favorite candles include:
Good-smelling candles are therapeutic on so many levels. It activates your senses and invites peace of mind after a hectic day. You can even pair your candle with one of your comfort drinks just to level up your self-care.
5. Indulge in a Hot Bath or Shower
Enjoying a hot bath after a hard day of work, school or running around after little ones can be just right to finish off your day. Hot baths help relax tense muscles. Scented oils are also a great addition to your bath time set the mood for a perfect aromatherapy session and helps relax the mind as well.
If you do not have a tub at a home, hot showers are still wonderful for "me" time. Pick a nice body wash that will activate your senses and let the water run down your body, get steamy with that water!
6. Journal Up
Journaling is a wonderful way to give yourself the attention you need for mental health care. If you're like me, you worry more about the need of others and less about your own needs.
Journaling helps you process difficult emotions, thoughts and feelings that you may be struggling to speak with others about. It can lead towards insights and breakthroughs, which boosts mindfulness and helps you cope with emotional burnout or stress.
Not only can journaling help you check in with yourself mentally and emotionally but also sparks creativity. Write poems if that's your thing. Or pick some thought-provoking prompts that will force you to learn more about yourself on a deeper level. Personal growth comes from within.
Related: How to Journal for Beginners
There are many affordable journaling books that can cater to your style and needs. Some books I that peaked my interest for journaling include Self-Love Workbook for Women , The 6 Minute A Day Diary for More Mindfulness, Happiness and Productivity and Let That Sh*T Go. While I personally love these books, you can also opt for a simple college rule notebook to scribble away and still achieve the same rewarding outcome.
7. Enjoy a Favorite Playlist, Podcast or Audiobook
Switch up TV for a playlist of your favorite music as an alternative to disconnecting from the world. Discover a new podcast that can spark up enthusiasm and motivate you to be in a better mental state. Listening to something you enjoy can help elevate you, no matter what you're doing or wherever you are.
If you're love books but hate reading them, audiobooks is a great option as well. The idea is to remove yourself from binge watching TV and try something new.
8. Put on a Face Mask
If you have not been taking care of your skin,'tis the time! Feeling silky smooth does wonders to your self-esteem. When you feel like you're glowing after a good skin care routine, it boosts your confidence and you'll want to show off your naked face. This can encourage you to feel more comfortable in your skin, without the urge to put on makeup or even take a nice natural-faced selfie.
Face masks come in many varieties depending on how you're trying to pamper yourself. You can buy wet masks, mud masks, charcoal, and peel-offs. There are many options to choose from and these can be very affordable if you're a little worried about breaking the bank. You can make your own using simple kitchen ingredients or go to your nearest pharmacy, Walmart or Target stores.
9. Power Yourself Up with Motivation Quotes
Recharge yourself with positivity. The Pinterest app has tons of empowering quotes that can help elevate you. Find a quote that resonates with you and hold on to it. Quotes can improve your mindfulness and self-awareness. It also empowers you to be a better version of yourself, especially when you're very tired but need to keep going to meet your personal goals.
Motivational quotes are great to keep on your laptop or smartphone's background as a reminder of your higher self. Google images are also a good option to find motivational images to cater to your day. You can also check out our social media for more Sprinkle of Care inspirational posts: TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest.
10. Go out!
Every human needs social connection. Self-care also includes going out and enjoying yourself. This doesn't have to be a nightclub. As a 30+ years young person myself, the night life is no longer in my blood. But you connect with friends and people you love by spending time outdoors.
If the weather permits, go out to the beach or a park. Hang out and reconnect with people you enjoy spending time with. As adults, it is more difficult to just drop everything to hang out with friends when there are many other things to juggle daily. So schedule it in advance if you have to.
Other ideas include visiting a food market or festival and eat with your loved ones, guilt-free! The point is to indulge in the simple pleasures of life while you still can. Allow yourself to live in the moment.
Connect With Me
These are the things I put into practice for self-care. Invest in yourself and cater to more self-care throughout the next couple of months because you're totally worth it. Let me know what other treats keep your sanity alive. I’d love to hear what you do!
Comments