recently life hasn't given me much of a break, everyday there's something to do, a list of things to check off... but last night, i got into comfortable clothes, went to brush my teeth and wash my face, and realized how much i have been disregarding my own self care needs. i had breakouts from not properly washing and moisturizing my face, huge knots in my har from lack of moisture (in my case hair oil), my toes were badly chipped, my nails half chewed off, and my legs really could use a razor. i decided right then that tomorrow was going to be a much needed 'me' day.
self care should be part of our daily routine, and although we try to schedule ourselves into our to do lists, sometimes we fall behind and our own mental and physical health suffer. when this happens, i like to schedule a day for myself, the first full day i have is dedicated to me.
coffee
first is always coffee, i love the smell, the sound, the first taste... it's my first true love.
tidy up
then, i need a clean space to have a clear mind.
changing the sheets and blankets on the bed and the couch, cleaning all the floors and countertops, giving the shower a good wipe down and the toilet a good scrub are all part of tidying up.
if there are dishes to be done or put away, i clear them before wiping down these areas.
sweat session
if i don't get in a sweat session in the morning, it likely won't happen. so once things are tidy and clean, i head to either a pilates class, yoga, spin or the gym for a good workout. typically i'll opt for a class so i can't have my phone with me as a distraction.
warm shower
this is not your typical shower, first you'll need a thick moisturizing hair mask. let it sit while shaving your legs + washing your face. then continue on with shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. and i always add hair oil and a moisturizing cruelty free lotion to my entire body once i towel off.
healthy home made breakfast
depending on when you're hungry, for some it's first thing in the morning, for me it's later in my morning, you'll want to get in a healthy breakfast. since i prefer to do fasted workouts, i try to finish a full bottle of water on my way home from the gym. then breakfast is usually a smoothie, oatmeal, or avocado toast.
journal
while i eat i like to journal, whether that's writing out full thoughts or bullet points, adding in photos or event tickets with captions; it varies everyday. putting your thoughts to paper is your own free therapy session, i promise you.
go for a walk
if you have a pet like i do, this happens daily anyway.however on a day that i don't have anywhere to be, we (kaiya and i) take the scenic route. no matter what season it is, this is my time to spend in nature. sometimes we'll drive to a park or just walk in the neighborhood.
manicure / pedicure
a must on a self care day. i feel human again after i have my nails done.
car wash
kind of like my home, when my car is clean i feel more in control and of course, cleaner!
do something you love
anyone else find doing laundry therapeutic? having everything clean and put away, new sheets and clothes and blankets... there is nothing better. i'll also catch up with friends and family, watch some television, catch up on a series i started. i might grab lunch with someone i've been meaning to see or with my mom since she lives close by.
evening beauty routine
i know a face mask isn't a fix all but it's so nice to rid the day from your pores. i try to do one that's cleansing like a charcoal mask or seaweed and then a mask that's moisturizing and brightening. and of course moisturizer (mine is medicinal from a dermatologist), eye cream, and a face oil.
palo santo + meditating
i use a meditation pillow but wherever you prefer to sit, just take 5 -10 minutes and focus solely on your breath. thoughts will come and go and you should acknowledge them but then, let them be. it takes time to learn this practice and i still have evenings where i struggle hard. but i find that an app or soothing music helps. i'll also burn palo santo prior to clear the space. i feel it gets me in the right mindset.
wellness is not all or nothing. in fact it never works when we look at it that way. life happens, but as long as we are motivated to implement new healthy routines then we're on a good path.
i hope you feel inspired to take a day for yourself. your 'you' day doesn't necessarily have to be any of the above. maybe you like to go shopping or hiking or run errands... i like to clean on my days off because it makes me feel good. everyone is different, has different needs, embrace what makes you happy.
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