This week is self care week. It's really important to take time out for yourself, even when you think you don't have time. You need space to gain perspective, recharge your batteries and have a break. Doing this can help protect your physical and mental health as well as your relationships with those around you. Without self care and periods of relaxation you can be more vulnerable to stress, mental and physical illnesses and arguments with loved ones. If you're having a bad time with anxiety or depression or it's that time of year when someone close to you passed away, its vital to be kinder to yourself so that your symptoms don't get worse and to avoid a negative spiral. Do one nice thing a day if you're going through a bad time, they can be small things like having a nice breakfast, buying your favourite magazine or having a bubble bath. In general it's good to have some 'me time' during the week especially if you're a busy mum or your job is very demanding.
This post has been in the works for a while, the inspiration came from a friend when I showed her a cute animal photo in the newspaper and she responded with "one for the fridge." She explained that whenever she saw a cute animal picture she'd stick it on the fridge so that every time she opened it she'd smile and feel all warm and fuzzy inside! Anyway here are 38 self care ideas for you.
1. One for the fridge. Cut out any cute animals from papers or magazines to decorate the fridge or go digital and start a Pintrest board for them or follow my cute animals board here.
Another way to remind yourself that there's some good left in the world is watching Youtube video clips of animals helping other animals here and here. There's also this clip on animals that saved humans and true life rescue stories here.
2. Speak to the people you love. They can give you some advice on how to tackle the situation or offer some reassurance. It will also let them understand what you're going through which could ward off any future arguments. Sometimes you may not want to tell them what you're going through, but just spending time with them or talking to them on the phone will show you that there are people who care about you and who are on your side.
3. Spend time with pets playing or cuddling them. It's been proven that stroking pets decreases your blood pressure. If you haven't got a pet but love dogs then the Borrow My Doggy website will connect you with local dog owners. It costs £10 to sign up and then you can walk a dog or borrow them for weekends and holidays. If you're more of a cat person then get down to a cat cafe and show them some love.
4. Often when we're stressed or depressed we don't talk to ourselves kindly but berate ourselves, so writing a list of things you like about yourself can help to combat this. Repeating affirmations during the day will help, examples such as 'I'm capable and loveable', 'I forgive myself for not being perfect because I know I'm human' and 'I live life to the fullest.'
5. If you're feeling down or very stressed exercise will actually help. Exercising releases dopamine and seratonin neurotransmitters, two chemicals produced in the brain that promote happiness and lowers depression. It will also change your mindset, perhaps make you feel more energised and change your perspective, enabling you to see that your world is bigger that what is currently making you sad or stressed. I always feel that running is therapeutic because it feels like you are literally running outside and away from your problems you were mulling over indoors. Running alongside a river or park or something picturesque helps. Don't like running? Try Tai Chi and yoga instead, they can be very calming. Or do a Grey's Anatomy and dance it out (my preferred method!) If you're lonely then joining a team sport may help such as netball or football.
6. Write a list of things things that make you happy and do more of them. Having a list nearby will remind you of things that you can do when you're feeling rubbish.
7. Find some of your favourite quotes and frame them. You can buy prints from Etsy or use Canva to make and print your own.
8. Buy yourself some flowers. They'll brighten the place the kitchen table, bedroom or living room.
9. Turn off your mobile, have a no screen day or a digital detox weekend. Sometimes it's good to concentrate on yourself without the interruptions of other people's demands on your time. It's also refreshing to have a no screen weekend and have a break from social media. While using social media we can sometimes compare our bodies and lives to others and end up feeling sad or disappointed instead of focusing on all the good things and people in our own, off screen lives. Taking a break from looking at screen means that you fill your day with other activities, talking or seeing friends, reading a proper book, going for a walk or to the gym. Another idea is to spend the day exploring local attractions.
10. Treat yourself by paying your favourite coffee shop or cafe a visit.
11. Plan a holiday or staycation. Focusing on something positive will help and it will be easier to get through each day knowing you have something to look forward to.
12. Being in nature is known to reduce stress. So take a stroll in the local park, woods or visit the beach. Or a long country walk or hike if you're up for it.
13. Have a laugh. Book yourself tickets to a comedy night or watch a funny TV series. I recommend Fawlty Towers, Friends, Have I got News for You and Mock the Week. My favourite comedians are Katherine Ryan, Russel Howard, Britain's Got Talent Mandy Munden, Andy Parsons, Hugh Dennis and Ed Gamble.
14. Listen to your favourite songs and create a playlist. Whenever you feel down or need some time to yourself switch on that playlist.
15. Find a project: it can be decorating the spare room, a craft project-perhaps making a present for a friend, restoring a motorbike or researching your family history. This will direct all your energy into something positive and you'll be able to see the progress you're making.
16. Take photos of beautiful things. This can be arty shots of nature, buildings or pictures of your friends, family and pets. You may not be the best at taking photos but the point of this exercise is that it prompts you to notice all the beautiful things around us. You may end up with a lovely family picture to frame as a present or get lots of likes on Instagram if you are posting it there.
17. Book yourself a massage. It will rid you of stress, muscle aches and help bad posture.
18. Have a bath, fill with bath bubbles or bath bombs. Use aromatherapy bath and shower gels.
19. Cook your favourite meal or make yourself a lovely breakfast with pancakes, waffles, fruit salad, chia seed pudding, pastries, a milkshake or smoothie. Have a go baking a cake or loaf of bread.
20. Do something new. If you've always been interested in photography watch a few Youtube videos or go on a course. If you've ever wanted to learn another language then log onto BBC Languages or Duolingo for free. Ever wanted to play the guitar? Then Youtube tutorials or classes can help.
21. Wear your favourite outfit- whether it be comfortable or sexy- a flattering dress or pair of jeans. Wearing your favourite clothes gives you confidence that you look good and feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible.
22. Watch your favourite films or TV series. My favourites are Sex and the City, Samantha Who, Singing in the Rain, Harry Potter, Sherlock, Pretty Little Liars and The Good Fight.
23. Create a Space of Peace. This can be a corner of your room or sitting room where you can go and recuperate. Maybe a lovely comfy chair or sofa or a window seat to read by. Decorate with calming things such as candles, flowers, shells, rocks, ornaments, cuddly toys or quotes.
24. Read your favourite books. I find it very comforting to read a book I love and know so well. My favourites are Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, the Harry Potter series and books by Meg Cabot and Lindsey Kelk. In the summer read in the park and in the winter find a cozy fireplace to read by.
25. Wrap up warm and go outside to stargaze. As well as being beautiful, the distance and the all encompassing nature of the universe can put things into perspective.
26. Print out your digital photos or photos from your Instagram or phone. Frame them or display them in a digital photo frame.
27. Ring the changes and try a different makeup look. Browse Pintrest and Youtube tutorials for 'How to' guides and inspiration. Ask for a different haircut at the hairdressers or dye your hair another colour.
28. Enter a competition, it doesn't have to be anything complicated that involves you doing lots of things to enter. You do have to be in it to win it though! You never know, you may be surprised a few weeks or months down the line to find out that you've won!
29. Colouring for adults has been a big trend because anyone can do it and it can be very relaxing. There are so many different colouring books out there, there's something for everyone! If you are feeling more creative try your hand at painting or drawing. Here are a couple of free uplifting colouring pages from Frugal Family.
2. Speak to the people you love. They can give you some advice on how to tackle the situation or offer some reassurance. It will also let them understand what you're going through which could ward off any future arguments. Sometimes you may not want to tell them what you're going through, but just spending time with them or talking to them on the phone will show you that there are people who care about you and who are on your side.
3. Spend time with pets playing or cuddling them. It's been proven that stroking pets decreases your blood pressure. If you haven't got a pet but love dogs then the Borrow My Doggy website will connect you with local dog owners. It costs £10 to sign up and then you can walk a dog or borrow them for weekends and holidays. If you're more of a cat person then get down to a cat cafe and show them some love.
4. Often when we're stressed or depressed we don't talk to ourselves kindly but berate ourselves, so writing a list of things you like about yourself can help to combat this. Repeating affirmations during the day will help, examples such as 'I'm capable and loveable', 'I forgive myself for not being perfect because I know I'm human' and 'I live life to the fullest.'
5. If you're feeling down or very stressed exercise will actually help. Exercising releases dopamine and seratonin neurotransmitters, two chemicals produced in the brain that promote happiness and lowers depression. It will also change your mindset, perhaps make you feel more energised and change your perspective, enabling you to see that your world is bigger that what is currently making you sad or stressed. I always feel that running is therapeutic because it feels like you are literally running outside and away from your problems you were mulling over indoors. Running alongside a river or park or something picturesque helps. Don't like running? Try Tai Chi and yoga instead, they can be very calming. Or do a Grey's Anatomy and dance it out (my preferred method!) If you're lonely then joining a team sport may help such as netball or football.
6. Write a list of things things that make you happy and do more of them. Having a list nearby will remind you of things that you can do when you're feeling rubbish.
7. Find some of your favourite quotes and frame them. You can buy prints from Etsy or use Canva to make and print your own.
8. Buy yourself some flowers. They'll brighten the place the kitchen table, bedroom or living room.
9. Turn off your mobile, have a no screen day or a digital detox weekend. Sometimes it's good to concentrate on yourself without the interruptions of other people's demands on your time. It's also refreshing to have a no screen weekend and have a break from social media. While using social media we can sometimes compare our bodies and lives to others and end up feeling sad or disappointed instead of focusing on all the good things and people in our own, off screen lives. Taking a break from looking at screen means that you fill your day with other activities, talking or seeing friends, reading a proper book, going for a walk or to the gym. Another idea is to spend the day exploring local attractions.
10. Treat yourself by paying your favourite coffee shop or cafe a visit.
11. Plan a holiday or staycation. Focusing on something positive will help and it will be easier to get through each day knowing you have something to look forward to.
12. Being in nature is known to reduce stress. So take a stroll in the local park, woods or visit the beach. Or a long country walk or hike if you're up for it.
13. Have a laugh. Book yourself tickets to a comedy night or watch a funny TV series. I recommend Fawlty Towers, Friends, Have I got News for You and Mock the Week. My favourite comedians are Katherine Ryan, Russel Howard, Britain's Got Talent Mandy Munden, Andy Parsons, Hugh Dennis and Ed Gamble.
14. Listen to your favourite songs and create a playlist. Whenever you feel down or need some time to yourself switch on that playlist.
15. Find a project: it can be decorating the spare room, a craft project-perhaps making a present for a friend, restoring a motorbike or researching your family history. This will direct all your energy into something positive and you'll be able to see the progress you're making.
16. Take photos of beautiful things. This can be arty shots of nature, buildings or pictures of your friends, family and pets. You may not be the best at taking photos but the point of this exercise is that it prompts you to notice all the beautiful things around us. You may end up with a lovely family picture to frame as a present or get lots of likes on Instagram if you are posting it there.
17. Book yourself a massage. It will rid you of stress, muscle aches and help bad posture.
18. Have a bath, fill with bath bubbles or bath bombs. Use aromatherapy bath and shower gels.
19. Cook your favourite meal or make yourself a lovely breakfast with pancakes, waffles, fruit salad, chia seed pudding, pastries, a milkshake or smoothie. Have a go baking a cake or loaf of bread.
20. Do something new. If you've always been interested in photography watch a few Youtube videos or go on a course. If you've ever wanted to learn another language then log onto BBC Languages or Duolingo for free. Ever wanted to play the guitar? Then Youtube tutorials or classes can help.
21. Wear your favourite outfit- whether it be comfortable or sexy- a flattering dress or pair of jeans. Wearing your favourite clothes gives you confidence that you look good and feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible.
22. Watch your favourite films or TV series. My favourites are Sex and the City, Samantha Who, Singing in the Rain, Harry Potter, Sherlock, Pretty Little Liars and The Good Fight.
23. Create a Space of Peace. This can be a corner of your room or sitting room where you can go and recuperate. Maybe a lovely comfy chair or sofa or a window seat to read by. Decorate with calming things such as candles, flowers, shells, rocks, ornaments, cuddly toys or quotes.
24. Read your favourite books. I find it very comforting to read a book I love and know so well. My favourites are Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, the Harry Potter series and books by Meg Cabot and Lindsey Kelk. In the summer read in the park and in the winter find a cozy fireplace to read by.
25. Wrap up warm and go outside to stargaze. As well as being beautiful, the distance and the all encompassing nature of the universe can put things into perspective.
26. Print out your digital photos or photos from your Instagram or phone. Frame them or display them in a digital photo frame.
27. Ring the changes and try a different makeup look. Browse Pintrest and Youtube tutorials for 'How to' guides and inspiration. Ask for a different haircut at the hairdressers or dye your hair another colour.
28. Enter a competition, it doesn't have to be anything complicated that involves you doing lots of things to enter. You do have to be in it to win it though! You never know, you may be surprised a few weeks or months down the line to find out that you've won!
29. Colouring for adults has been a big trend because anyone can do it and it can be very relaxing. There are so many different colouring books out there, there's something for everyone! If you are feeling more creative try your hand at painting or drawing. Here are a couple of free uplifting colouring pages from Frugal Family.
30. Looking back on the past can give us feelings of depression and looking towards the future can produce anxiety, Mindfulness helps you to focus on the moment. You become more aware of thoughts, feelings, and body sensations without being overwhelmed. It can also be used to help sleep using progressive muscle relaxation (gradually tensing and releasing muscles) and pain (imagining the pain to be bigger and vibrant and then diminishing it.) For more information on mindfulness visit Mind. Visual mediation is another way to relax. Visual meditation involves picturing your 'happy' place or the place that you're most relaxed such as on the beach and that you can hear the waves and seagulls etc. Hypnosis is another way to relax and look after our mental health. It has a certain 'image' but really it's something that puts you into a relaxed state and be more open to suggestion or persuasion. So things like someone telling you to smoke less may make you grumble and defensive during the day but under hypnosis you accept the possibility and may subconsciously take the suggestion on board and smoke less. I recommend Glen Harrold and use the app to play his Relax and Sleep and Positive Thinking tracks before I go to sleep.
31. Pamper yourself by having a D.I.Y spa at home. Put on a face mask, give yourself a manicure, soak your feet and apply a moisturisng treatment to your hair. If you have the money book yourself and a relative or friend to a spa.
33. Have a good nights sleep. This is something I struggle with. The Sleep Council offers some tips. Make sure your room is completely dark and keep the room temperature around 16-18 degrees. Turn off technology such as phones, TVs and computers and turn away LCD screens such as an alarm clock. Try to start a nighttime ritual or routine to let your body know it's time to relax and sleep. I try to apply a nice body cream and read a book in bed.
34. Sometimes imposing order on something can bring a sense of control back in our lives. As a way to combat lethargy try setting an alarm for 20 minutes and tidy one drawer. That's maybe all you can do and that's fine: mission accomplished! Or you may feel that you're on a roll and end up tidying all the drawers. Alternatively you can declutter your wardrobe, letting go of the clothes you no longer wear and making some room for new clothes! Or you can rearrange your bookshelves by colour, creating a rainbow effect!
35. Write a list of goals-such as places to visit, skills to pick up, things to do and films to watch (one of my current goals is to watch all of Hitchcock's films- all 51 of them!) This directs your energy into something positive and achieve something you've always wanted to do.
37.. Read uplifting self help books- I recommend Lynda Fields tiny book 60 Ways to Feel Amazing, Teach Yourself Relaxation by Richard Craze and Stress Proof Your Life by Elizabeth Wilson.
I hope these ideas above are helpful. If you come up with any other ideas feel free to tell me in the comments
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