Oof, doesn’t the idea of sitting on the front porch sipping on a glass of wine or having Cheap Little Cigars on a Sunday evening sound like a blissful day?
Some will call it an “unproductive” or “wasted” day, but those who have experienced first-hand the benefits of taking a self-care day will testify to its importance on one’s mental health.
A self-care day is your day. Whether you spend it journaling, meditating, or catching up with your friends, self-care days allow you to recharge.
Picture by danielsampaioneto on Pixabay
Come Monday, and you will be ready to tackle what lies ahead.
It’s no lie that when you feel good, you look good. So find what relaxes you the most. Then, venture on the web or try one of the following activities to start treating yourself.
Bubble Bath & Candles
Picture lit pumpkin spice-scented candles, the smell of your favorite lotion, bubbles, and warm water.
A long week calls for a long bubble bath.
Picture by Victoria_Borodinova on Pixabay
Put on some classical or instrumental music to set the mood. If you prefer watching tv, put a comedy or musical movie. Replenish your body; don’t set a timer.
Spend as much time in that bath and slip into the most comfortable set of pajamas you can find.
Pedicure & Manicure
Caregivers and heads of households already devote much of their energy to others. Pedicure and manicures may appear insignificant to certain people, but enjoying the little things is crucial.
Picture by StockSnap on Pixabay
If you’re concerned about affording a pedicure or manicure, do it yourself. Beginners will struggle at first, but with practice and a little patience, you’ll be able to treat yourself properly.
Your hands are tools you use every day. Show them some love and appreciation by paying close attention to them on self-care days. You won’t have to go all out and glue crystals on your nails. Just trim and polish them.
‘Unplug’
Don’t look at your phone! Challenge yourself to refuse to check up on emails, texts, or social media platforms.
Be in the present moment with your children, family, and friends. Make it a habit to ‘unplug’ and rethink or reflect on your life, goals, and feelings.
Mother and Emmy nominated filmmaker Tommy Shlain explains the critical benefits of unplugging one day per week. Shlain gives readers eight reasons to distance yourself from the online world:
- Increases productivity
- Increases focus
- It helps you sleep better
- Reduces depression and anxiety
- Improves relationships
- Improves health
- It breaks unhealthy patterns for your mental health
- Transforms you into a better human being
Establish a Face Routine
Not everybody has the luxury of spending big bucks on face masks, makeup, cleansers, moisturizers, sunscreens, exfoliants, serums, or toners. You get the idea. The list goes on and on; meanwhile, your wallet shrinks.
Picture by bridgeswar on Pixabay
Keep it light and simple. Experiment with multiple face products and discover which freshen up your skin. Choose quality over quantity or brand when it comes to face products.