Simplify self care in 15 minutes or less

What is self-care? Simply put, it’s the act of taking care of yourself. Most people know taking time for themselves is important to physical, mental and emotional wellbeing – but fitting it in to our busy schedules is easier said than done.

Self-care should be simple, but in reality, it’s easy to put off things that bring peace and calmness to your days when your schedule is packed and responsibilities seem never ending. If you’re feeling the pressure from work, family or other obligations, these quick and effective ideas will help you take a deep breath and unwind after a long day (or week)! 

Relieve…

By drinking plenty of fluids. A cup of warm and soothing herbal tea with a teaspoon of honey is sure to usher in a good night’s sleep. Not only is it relaxing, hot tea has also been shown to ease unwanted cold symptoms. If drinking in the late afternoon or evening, be sure to choose a decaffeinated option.

Read…

Anything that brings you joy or amusement. The act of reading can help take your mind off the troubles of the day and whisk you away to another place. As long as it’s not causing your stress, time with a good book or favorite magazine qualifies as self-care.  

Refuel…

Even though we have to eat and drink to live, choosing the right things can also qualify as self-care. Eating small, well-balanced meals, like a hearty salad with lean protein or reaching for fruit as a snack, will give you energy and help you feel your best. Drinking plenty of water will also help you avoid those sluggish feelings.

Revitalize…

There’s nothing that will give you a boost of energy like a quick walk around the block, a quick ride on a bike, or even doing a short routine of lunges and squats in your living room. It doesn’t take long to get your blood pumping, and you’ll feel an immediate improvement in your mood and energy level.

Relax…

Take 10 minutes to wash away the day by soaking in the bath or a hot tub. Soaking in a warm aromatherapy bath with your favorite scents or essential oils can melt away the stressors of the day and ease stiffness and soreness. For a quick DIY bath salt recipe, mix 1 cup of Epsom salt with 5-8 drops of your favorite essential oil blend. Draw a bath and add ¼ cup to the warm water and enjoy!  

Release…

Tight muscles – especially in the shoulders, neck and upper back – are common if you spend much time at a computer or looking down at your phone. Take a moment to move your head side to side, bringing your ear as close to your shoulder as possible. Then drop your chin to your chest and feel the tension releasing in your shoulders. Lastly, stand with feet shoulder with apart and bend over at the waist. Relax your neck and let the weight of your body stretch out your lower back and hamstrings.

Repair…

Itchy and cracked skin can be painful. But thankfully, dry skin on hands and feet can easily be improved by applying a body cream or lotion right out of the shower. Layering it while your skin is still moist will help seal moisture into your upper layer of skin. Get another boost of moisture before bed by keeping a rich hand cream by your bedside.

Recharge…

A power nap – that’s not more than 15 minutes – can boost your alertness, perkiness and productivity. To get the best benefit, select the right setting so that noise and light won’t interrupt, and time it so that it’s not too late in the day. This might throw off your sleep patterns and make it difficult to doze at bedtime.