In a world cluttered with Zoom meetings, work obligations and family commitments, it can be hard to find time for self. We completely understand, which is why we unearthed this hidden gem filled with jewels showing you how to practice self-care to help unwind, relax and make time for the most important person in your life: you.
This list was curated by Kimberly Wilson for Essence Magazine.
Meditate
Take a moment every day to practice mindfulness. You can practice this on your own, or even download a meditation app. Breathe. Count to ten. Staying focused on your breath removes distractions, worries, and restlessness from the mind. Being in touch with your soul and inner emotions helps you feel more connected to the world and is a perfect way to relieve the burdens of activism and the daily stresses of everyday life.
Make a list of all the things you’re grateful for
It’s important to cultivate a spirit of gratitude. Focusing on the things you’re grateful for each day will help you feel happier, more centered and more self-confident. It’s as simple as saying, “I’m grateful for…” and naming things, people and events that have occured in your life on a daily basis. You woke up this morning — that’s a gift to be thankful for in inself. Keeping a gratitude journal and writing in it each day can help you consciously give thanks for the things that make your life better.
Exercise
Of course, there are the physical benefits that come with working out, such as a better physique, but other benefits of exercise include mood improvement, stress reduction, better sleep, and a happier spirit. Incorporating just 30 minutes of exercise each day can make all the difference in not just your physical health, but your mental health.
Make room for joy
In the midst of our day-to-day activities, it can be easy to forget to make space for things that fill you will joy. Laugh. Listen to your favorite podcast. Dance (or twerk) like no one is watching. Color in an adult coloring book for 15 minutes. It can be anything that renews your spirit throughout the day.
Say no
Don’t want to go to lunch with Susan today? Don’t have time to make your famous lasagna as a favor to your friend? Then don’t. In fact, make it a priority to say “no” to any requests to your time, energy and resources that don’t align with your wants or needs. It’s necessary to preserve your sanity. C’mon, do you really think you can please everyone?
Dedicate one day out of the week as your own personal day
Set aside one day per week as “you” time. No work, no obligations — just a day to spend time with yourself doing whatever you want to do. That can be spent cleaning, reading, taking in a movie, going to dinner with your tribe — anything you want. Just make sure you’re the priority that day.
Incorporate healthy habits
Are you getting enough sleep? Find yourself drinking a lot during the week? Spend more time eating junk than clean eating? Small changes will make a big difference. Something as simple as drinking more water (and minding your business) will have you hydrated, healthy and happy.
Try something new
When was the last time you’ve tried something for the first time? Join a sports club, take yourself on a date, journal, try a dating app. It’s time to get creative! The benefits of regularly engaging in a creative activity can help make you a better problem solver, expand your sense of time, improve your self-awareness and reduce your urge to buy compulsively.
Rid the negativity
Above all things, protect your energy. Once you find the source of any negativity, don’t hesitate to cut it off. This can be a person, your job, or a habit. This will make a world of difference for your spirit in the long run.
