It’s summer time and the living is easy…or it’s filled with a never-ending to-do list and days that seem to lack any real productivity entirely. We all want to feel productive and useful without looking like we just completed the Ironman Triathlon, again. Follow one or all of these Five Self-Care Tips for Summer to run your own race at your own pace.
Self-Care isn’t easy but it is your responsibility.
Taking care of your energy is serious business. It means listening to yourself and your needs whether they be immediate or long-term. What is self-care? Self-Care is any activity done in the name of your mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health. You are a deserving, valuable and capable being – treat yourself accordingly.
1. Aromatherapy is your friend.
What is aromatherapy?
“Aromatherapy, also referred to as Essential Oil therapy, can be defined as the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonize and promote the health of body, mind and spirit. It seeks to unify physiological, psychological and spiritual processes to enhance an individual’s innate healing process.” – NAHA
So it’s a bit more in-depth than just walking through a field of blooming lavender but that in itself can be just as therapeutic. This is one of my favorite self-care tips that I practice regularly.
Some of my favorite ways to indulge in aromatherapy are adding a few drops of my favorite essential oil blends (or using one of my fragrant bath bombs) to a warm bath or to any post-shower body oil I have on hand. Essential oils like ylang ylang, neroli, geranium, lavender and bergamot are on heavy rotation in my skin care world.
Aromatic spritzers are also an easy way to ease into using essential oils. Mix no more than 15 drops of essential oil per ounce of water and use when and where needed. I’ll spray my bed linens, car mats and even curtains with it, sparingly of course. Feeling a little creative? Try this easy diy cocoa body butter recipe.
2. Accept your limits.
No matter how much you think you should take on we all have limits. Setting healthy boundaries and using your voice to say, “No” or “Maybe next time”, is a game changer. It does take some getting used to and not everyone will like it but self-care isn’t about everyone else, it is about you and listening to your needs. They are valid. And you have to prioritize your needs. Slow-down. Prioritize.
3. Unplug.
Unplug. Your phone, tv, your laptop – PC, tablet, mobile device – etc. It may sound extreme but it is so refreshing. I have an alarm (set daily) on my phone that goes off at the same time everyday telling me it’s time to log-off. Now I’m not logged-on everyday but it’s a good reminder if I am that I may have been “wired in” for too long. Set a time limit and stick to it.
Technology makes it very easy to disconnect from your reality and spend way too much of your time being inactive. This can bring on chronic stressors, fatigue and that hamster wheel feeling. You know the one where it feels like everyone else is making progress in life and you’re stuck? It simply isn’t true but in order to see it you have to start being a present participant in your life. Take a walk, read something new, learn something new, take up a new hobby, volunteer your time – Experience your life.
4. Get moving.
So this is subjective and will mean different things for different people but it ties into Unplug. I am not a morning person, really, do not wake me up unless I am late for something. But once I get up I’ve got to get moving. And on any given day that could mean smudging and de-cluttering my space, a weekend deep clean in my house – 3 kids and 2 little fur friends make that a weekly must, going for a long walk or bike ride around our neighborhood, rolling out my workout mat and getting in some exercise and yoga stretches, spending time with my plants – the list goes on.
Think about what makes you feel good when you’re up and about. Go with that and expand on it. Do you like spending time outdoors? Are you more of an indoor gazer? What local hidden treasures can you find in your area to explore?
5. Practice bold self-love.
Self-love, self-respect, self-worth: There’s a reason they all start with ‘self.’ You can’t find them in anyone else. ~Unknown
You need your love because the only person you are truly stuck with in this life is you. Bold self-love looks like how you would treat a friend who is down or a loved one who really needs your support. It can be difficult to focus on self-love, especially when we are our own toughest critics, but begin by allowing love to flow through you. Focus on what you appreciate in your daily life no matter what task or juncture you are at.
External circumstances do not determine your worth. Speak kind words to yourself, make room for healthy habits, show yourself some compassion! Be your own competition and set small goals toward the life you see for yourself.
By caring for yourself you care for others and further spread the message and awareness of self-care as a norm.
Want more ideas for self-care? Read 12 Sacred Self-Care Rituals to Get Through the Holiday or Any Day.