Self Care 101!

The phrase self care has been going around a lot this year. I think in stressful times it is easy to forget to take care of ourselves and 2020 has been filled with struggle and challenges for many of us. 

Self care is taking actions that help promote our physical and mental well being. I think it is important to note this looks different for everyone. I see some people consider a pedicure self care and for me personally it is something I hate to do! (I know that seems weird, and now that we are locked down in California I could really go for one right about now!) 

I think of self care as something to do when you need to re-charge, re-energize and bring joy. Some of my personal favorite self care activities include:

• Sitting on the couch and reading a book
• Applying a facial mask and using my gua sha tool
• Exercising
• Meditating 
• Talking to a friend
• Going to the beach
• Sleeping! 

Why is it hard to do?

I know getting self care time can be a challenge for many of us. Are you a mom? Well, you know all too well that having time for yourself can feel selfish, I mean can't you use that time to be vacuuming?? Many moms struggle taking the time for their self care, they think they could be doing something else with that time. I am so guilty of this. 

Another reason could be that during times of stress it is easier to lean into the instant gratification activities to take our mind of the stress (too much social media, drinking to take the edge off, eating a batch of cookies. Raise your hand if you are guilty of any of these!) I think that is why it is helpful to schedule in time to take care of yourself. I will take a bath tonight at 7pm when my kids are watching a movie for example. But the bottom line is, you know it's self care and not self destruction if you feel refreshed after and not more stressed, guilty or depressed!

Self care is such a great tool in times of stress, anxiety and this year has been full of that this year. What are some ways you incorporate self care? Let me know in the comments below!