Self-care is so important. We often overlook taking care of ourselves because we are so wrapped up in what is going on during our busy day. In addition, taking time for yourself can often be looked down upon. In a culture that values the idea of productivity, we can feel guilty when we stop to take time for ourselves. BUT the thing is if you run yourself to the ground, you won’t be productive, think clearly, or especially be happy.

Make your goal one to thrive. To thrive, you have to take care of your health and wellness. You have to do things for you. Do things that make you happy. Relax. Be mindful about what you put into your body. Be active when you can. Show love to your body and above all learn to love yourself no matter what.

Here are 11 easy ways to start practicing self-care today!

1. Allow yourself to get sleep. Sleep is a very important part of how good our brains function. We need to sleep.  You are not a better person because you deprive yourself of sleep. Take naps if you are tired and able to. Set a bed-time and get into a routine. Even if you don’t go to sleep at that time exactly, be in your PJs, be in bed. This time is the time you unwind. Also, this is the time you silence your phone.
2. Take a break from your phone & social media. Social media can be horrible for your mental health. It also keeps your mind on. Pick a “Black Out” time as Arlene coins it. Turn off your notifications, put it on silent, better yet – put it in another room! Pick a time and going into “blackout” for at least an hour if not more.
3. Move your body. Stretch. You don’t have to turn yourself into a regular gym goer (which is an awesome goal anyway). But, move your body around. Stretch when you wake-up. Go for a walk when you get home from work. Regularly get your blood flowing. Fitness trackers are awesome because they hold you accountable. I actually have a checklist on my phone for fitness goals, to be checked off each day as I accomplish them.
4. Mindfully eat. Eating healthy of course, will make you feel good and keep your body in top shape. However, mindful eating includes eating foods that make you feel good. These means eat foods that for starts don’t make you sick. All of our bodies are different. If something doesn’t sit well with you don’t eat it. Like you know, cheese when you are lactose intolerant. Also, mindful eating, in my opinion, includes allowing yourself a meal or two that may not be the best for your health BUT makes you super happy – you know like chocolate cake.
5. Drink water. Drink water. It is great for you. It helps your body stay healthy and it make your skin glow. Who doesn’t want beautiful, youthful, dewy skin?
6. Be creative. You do not have to be an artist to be creative. Do something that is for you, that you enjoy doing, and allows your brain to go. This includes reading a book, writing/ journaling, art, crafts, any hobby that disconnects you from the media.
7. Meditate. We had to add this to the list, we are Reiki Masters, it’s important to us. Meditation can be done in so many different ways. There are literally thousands of ways to do it. Though, the core of it is allowing your mind to just be. It is allowing yourself time to silence the inner chatter, if only for 5 minutes.
8. Make a personal self-care routine. Set time aside throughout the day to take care of yourself. This can be the time you deep condition your hair, paint your nails and read a book. This is when you do you. There are no rules, this can be 20 minutes a day. An hour on Saturday – whatever works for you.
9. Be particular with the people you spend time with. Decide who you want to spend your time with. Hang out with people you like. Let go of toxic relationships. You don’t need anything dragging you down in your life and you can love people from afar.
10. Reward yourself. Treat yourself more. You work hard. If you have been saving up for a new pair of expensive shoes, buy them guilt free. Take yourself out for a drink after work. Tell yourself “good job”. Don’t be afraid to be nice you yourself.
11. Speak well to yourself. Tell yourself how amazing you are. If you got to work on time, congratulate yourself. If you cooked a good dinner, tell yourself how great it was. Look in the mirror in the morning and say “I look good.” Forgive yourself. Treat yourself how you treat people you love.