Tips on how to look after yourself when you need it most!

This last year has seen a rise in people actively incorporating self-care into their lives. From implementing small daily habits that build to a happier and more cared for you, to dedicating time purely for yourself when you need it. There’s a lot on offer for self-care from books to 3-step skincare routines but when that’s not at hand we have created a list to help you through the moments when self-care is a must.

1. Go Outside

This is something that always seems to pop up on these lists but it's so important. It might not always be practical to go for a full-on wildlife-filled hike but it's fact that breathing in the fresh air and getting your blood pumping is good for your mind, body, AND soul! It could as simple as taking a stroll through your local town or popping in your headphones and listening to your favourite playlist or audiobook as you walk around the park with a hot drink. Whatever version of going outside suits you, you should do it, you will feel better for it.

2. Stay in Bed

A bit contradictory to the last point but some days staying in bed is necessary. Catching up on sleep can sometimes be the answer. Everything can feel so much worse if you’re looking at the world through a blanket of tiredness. Even if you choose to stay in bed to not sleep, but to binge on your favourite TV show or YouTube series, make it nice. Put on some clean pjs so you feel fresh, light your favourite candle and if you have fairy lights switch them on to create a nice inviting atmosphere. Most importantly let go of the guilt of staying in bed, that never helps. Rest is important and sometimes needs to be prioritised to make you feel better.

3. Organise & Clean

Now I know this sounds more like a chore than a self-care activity but de-cluttering or tidying your room/house can work wonders for the mind. I promise! There’s a reason why Marie Kondo and Mrs Hinch have become so popular, not only are they gift-giving with their cleaning and organising knowledge but they are paving the way to mindful living. You will feel so much better for clearing out that wardrobe that you regularly struggle to close, and donating the clothes you no longer wear. Creating a calm and clean living space will give you a space you can fully relax and unwind in. Somewhere you can leave the rest of the world on the doorstep.

4. Cooking or Baking

Food can be a nice self-care practice. It’s very easy and tempting when you’re having a hard day to just throw some oven bits in or shove something in the microwave and be done with it. Now don’t get me wrong, I'm guilty of ordering pizza because that’s the only thing that will do, but sometimes cooking something from scratch and making something hearty and comforting is the key. Get up and go and buy the ingredients to your favourite meal or sweet treat and enjoy the process of cooking or baking. You will feel accomplished and happy with the end result.

5. Reach Out

Sometimes self-care might need to stretch further than yourself. Let your friends or family know how much they mean to you and fill the airways (or message ways) with love. Why not start a conversation about a nice memory or funny story that you share. Nostalgia can be a lovely thing and a good pick me up. Alternatively don’t be afraid to tell someone you are having a hard day, it’s important to be open with the people that mean the most. They care about you as much as you do about them, let them know and let them help. Self-care isn’t a solitude thing.

6. Lower Expectations

Self-care is usually a much-needed reaction due to the stresses of life and certain situations. This could include expectations you have unknowingly put on yourself. Now I know this isn’t an easy quick fix and might not be relatable to your situation, but letting go of pressures and ideals you have for yourself can be a really good start. It's important not to compare yourself to others or live your life in “stages you should be at” it doesn’t work like that. Don’t punish yourself for things you know you wouldn’t to someone else. Give yourself a break.

7. Watch Something

Society is very good at giving us too much choice (not always a bad thing by any means) but we have all been there searching through Netflix or the TV planner for hours, to then end up not actually watching anything. On days where self-care is essential, you might not have the mental energy to aimlessly scroll, resulting in no outcome and feel like you have wasted time. Unless you want the challenge or have a clear plan on your next binge-watch, you should stick to something you know. Re-watch Friends or all of Drag race again, or even a movie or show from your childhood and see it through different eyes. There’s a lot of comfort in allowing yourself time to lose yourself in some telly. Don’t feel guilty about it.

8. Indulge yourself

There’s nothing wrong with indulging yourself from time to time. Treating yourself can be something we forget to do as we spend so much of our time and energy on other people. It could be buying yourself some flowers, a bath bomb or treat yourself further by booking on to a pottery class that you have always wanted to try. You're worthy of it! Remember to treat yourself.

Whatever version of self-care is for you, remember that its okay to take the time to implement it. Don't let the pressures of life affect your wellbeing.

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