I feel as though there’s a direct correlation in the amount of responsibility we take on and the amount of time we talk about the need for self-care. That’s right, I said talk about self-care, because as a fellow mom, I know finding the time to practice self-care can be challenging.
We all know that we need time for ourselves. We need time to breathe and recharge and feel whole again. We need less chaos and stress and more peace. We need an hour, a day, a solo trip to the Bahamas.
This January, I created a list of quick ways that I could be more mindful and present and practice quick self-care for just a few minutes per day. Your life may be so chaotic that finding an hour a day or taking that solo trip is out of the question, but ANYONE can find 2-3 minutes.
Here’s my “Serenity Now, Insanity Later” list:
- Unplug from devices. Don’t just step away from them, shut them off. When was the last time your turned off your phone?
- Write down a personal goal. Write it in a notebook, on a napkin, or on your bathroom mirror. Use this time to dream. Dreaming is fun!
- Compliment someone (and mean it). Take a moment to think about what you love about that person and say a prayer or send a positive vibe for them.
- Find a quote or scripture that speaks to you. Write it down and look at it several times throughout your day.
- Declutter a nook in your home. Maybe it’s that messy kitchen catch-all drawer, your makeup cabinet, or the center console of your car.
- Before bed write down 3 things you appreciated in your day.
- Practice 1-2 minutes of breathing. Unplug from your devices, close your eyes, and breathe. Focus on the inhalation and exhalation of each breath.
- While driving, use red lights as an opportunity to look around at your surroundings. Stop picking up your phone every time your car stops at a red light or in traffic. Use this time to appreciate the things around you that you pass by every day.
- Weather permitting, take a walk outdoors.
- Read something for enjoyment. A Red Stick Moms Blog post is the perfect start!
- Write a thank you note to someone.
- Write down one focused health goal, and ponder on how you will achieve that goal.
- When eating, focus on your food. No cell phones, TV, or car eating. Think about the textures and taste while you’re eating.
- Stretch before bed or when first waking up. Notice anything sore or tight on your body? A quick stretch could give you an indication of things within your body that may need more attention.
- When you wake up, say “thank you for another day of life” before getting out of bed.
- Embrace your creative side! Paint, draw, doodle, dance, write, or do whatever comes naturally.
- Do a guided meditation. Headspace is a great place to start.
- When negative thoughts or self-doubt creep in say “I am enough.” Take it one step further by speaking positive affirmations over yourself.
- Sit in silence for 3-5 minutes.
