self- care the practice of activities that are necessary to sustain life and health, normally initiated and carried out by the individual for him- or herself.1
Life gets busy. I think that’s a statement we can all agree on no matter how different or similar our personal lives are at the moment. Whether you’re a student doing virtual schooling, working from home or on the job hunt, we always seem to have something to do on our list. When life gets busy we seem to prioritize what is upcoming or urgent but on your list of prioritize, where does you self-care fall? Has it even made it on your list?
Now, I don’t think self-care will be the solution to all life’s problems, but I do think it is a responsibility that we must make time for proactively. In order to take on the upcoming week and pour into others, we need to make sure we are making time to re-fuel and take care of ourselves too. Here is a list of self-care habits you can incorporate in your life, daily, at the comfort of your own home.
1. Rise and Shine
Wake up when no one else is. When your home is quiet and everyone else is asleep, take advantage of that time and watch the sunrise. Absorb the morning vitamin D when the sun rays are soft. Simply clear your mind of the day that lies ahead and watch the sun slowly appear for another day. I challenge you not to take pictures but to simply enjoy with your senses, see the colours and feel the warmth.
2. Daily Movement
Daily movement is so vital to our bodies. This does not have to mean an intense weight lifting session or challenging run, although those activities are great. Physical movement can look different daily and sometimes we have to wake up each morning and listen to how our bodies feel. Moving your body can mean a simple 15 minute stretching session, yoga or a walk to get some fresh air. However you get your body moving, this is important, daily.
3. Breathe
Starting your morning off with some silence and deep breathes through the practice of meditation can really prepare your mind for the day. Whether you follow an in-depth and guided YouTube video or simply sit, close your eyes, and focus your mind on deep breaths, this moment of intense focus and silence can bring you peace for the rest of the day.
4. Coffee
Coffee time! My favourite time of the day. Now, I’m not a daily coffee drinker, but when I do decide to have a cup, drinking it is not even my most favourite part- it’s the process of making it. Turning the kettle on, frothing my oat milk, soaking the coffee grounds in the French press and making a little cup of art. Making coffee is such a slow, quiet and soothing process. It allows me to slow down, take a break from work and clear my thoughts.
5. Dress-Up
Now even in 2023, some of us are still pretty much in a virtual or at least hybrid world- whether you are working, a student, a parent, or wearing multiple hats. Being at home, it’s easy to fall into a habit of putting in minimal effort into your outfit, hair or overall appearance. For me, staying comfortable is important but adding a little flare to your outfit can boost your confidence and help you prepare for the day.
6. Go to bed early
End your day by going to bed at a reasonable hour. This can look different depending on your lives, but ensuring you get at least 7-8 hours of sleep is ideal, to feel fully rested, energized and ready for the next day ahead. I like to start my night time routine at 10:00 PM and be in bed no later than 10:30 PM. I can’t seem to fall asleep right away, so I grab my current read until my eyes tell me it’s about time to shut the lights off. I do strongly recommend and avoid opting for my phone. Scrolling through Tik Toks or Instagram can be endless and makes me wonder where the time goes, so avoiding making this a habit is key.
7. Connect
Live life with others. As an introvert, solitude is my comfort zone. Connecting with others and making plans is something I am working on and have to be intentional about. But connecting with others truly is a form of self-care- to conversate, share stories, talk about what you’re going through- highs and the lows. This can be easier said than done. It’s always when the day of your plans is nearing is when you regret making the plan in the first place. However, you and I both know, committing to your plans and going through with it always ends up being worth it.
8. Pamper
When was the last time you pampered yourself? I always feel rejuvenated and my best self after I’ve taken some time to take care of my skin, nails and body. This can look many different ways but here are a few things I try to incorporate into my pampering routine every now and then. Starting with my skin, simple but effective; a face mask. Face masks are a great way to take care of your skin on a weekly basis and take little to no time. Just apply and you can go on with your day or chores. I love a good charcoal mask that targets and helps to get rid of blemishes, like this one from the ordinary.
Another great way to unwind is a little at home spa day. There’s nothing like a warm bath or shower to unwind and allow your mind and body to relax.
9. Binge Watch Movies or Shows
My week can get pretty busy and I actually try to avoid Netflix during the week to avoid procrastination and binge watching. However, when I know I have a day to do this, I seize the opportunity. This can be one of my favourite things to do on a self-care day. Sit, relax and do nothing but watch for hours. The only caution with this, it may be hard to stop!!
10. Journal
Journaling is a habit I strive to incorporate in my every day. 15 minutes of reflection to work through my thoughts that may be clouding my mind, and simply pouring my thoughts onto paper. This is a great way to start your day or un-wind and reflect on the day before bed.
Life is busy and there is no denying that. But start making time to take care of you- I think it’s a great investment in your time each week and what easier way to do this than within your own home. Let me know how you’re prioritizing yourself this week!
1“self-care.” Oxford Reference. . . Date of access 14 Dec. 2022, <https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/oi/authority.20110803100453172>
