9 ways to prioritize self-care and me-time in 2021
Whether you only have 30 minutes or an entire weekend, prioritizing self-care will make a drastic change in your life. I know what you’re thinking….
I can’t find the time.
I can use this time building my business or spending time with my family.
I’m social distancing, and I don’t have anywhere to go.
[insert additional excuses here]*
No shade, but you won’t last long without a break. And I say this completely out of love, not judgment. Nobody wins if you’re silently suffering. And because I love you for real, I’m giving you this guide to help you get started (or to inspire ideas for how to make me-time work for you). So let’s get into it!
1. scented shower meditations…
Doesn’t that sound cute? I made it up (haha). Some days, the only me-time I get is during my morning shower. And because I tend to wake up hours before the rest of my family, I can’t blast my favorite music. So on especially quiet days, I meditate in the shower with the help of scented shower steamers. These Relief Shower Steamer tablets in the mint and eucalyptus scent are my absolute faves, and I found them completely by accident online. But be careful - they’re strong and get the job done quickly.
2. adult coloring books…
So.. real talk. My therapist recommended that I use adult coloring books to help with my anxiety… And it actually worked!! They are designed to relieve stress because they have crazy intricate designs that challenge your fine motor skills and attention span. It’s basically a therapeutic release. There are so many different kinds that range from religious or scripture focused themes to slightly inappropriate and hilarious ones like this (highly reviewed and under $10).
3. 10-minute workout…
A lot of us don’t have time for an hour-long workout - I don’t (nor do I want to), but a high-intensity 10-minute workout may be a thing for you! Full disclosure - I played myself the first time I did @getfitwithchryss’s 10-minute morning workout thinking I could handle it. This is NOT a game lol.
But, the music is always bomb, and sis looks amazing! She offers them live on weekday mornings, but posts to recordings everyday, so you can use it at a time that works best for you! She also offers a free nutrition class if this is more your speed.
4. set a vibe with soothing scents and sounds…
I’m a vibes/energies girl - so candles and a dope playlist are my thing! If this is you, check out @designedbyashleyscales. It’s a black-owned business, and they sell affordable 90s hip hop and r&b inspired scented candles, and they smell amazing! She’s also local in the DMV-area.
If you’re looking to a more longer lasting options (bc good candles can be expensive AF and only last so long), investing in a good diffuser can elevate the entire game for you. We purchased ours online, but there are some other great alternatives. You can get diffuser oils here too!
5. plan a “nothing” date just for you a month or two in advance.
Request the PTO, put the date in your calendar, hire the sitter, and set a reminder a week or two before to plan your date. This is your day to do nothing. Not a catch up date to do work, to meet up with anyone, or to get your hair or nails done. Do those things anyway, just not on this day. Seriously… do it, no excuses <3
6. take an afternoon stroll…
You’d be surprised what a 10-15 minute midday walk can do for your soul. Personally, the best time is during those Zoom/Teams calls that you aren’t required to turn your sound or camera on for. You know.. the ones that could’ve been an email??
7. invest in audiobooks…
If you’re into podcasts, you may really enjoy audiobooks, and Audible (to be specific). This isn’t sponsored, I just genuinely enjoy the service. I sometimes play my books in the background while I’m working, but usually I let it play just before bed or during my morning routine. My current faves are here below:
After the Rain: Gentle Reminders for Healing, Courage, and Self-Love by Alexandra Elle.
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear
The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks
8. staycation at a local spa or resort…
If you got time-time or money-money, or if you just think this is worth the investment (it is), take a staycation. Even with COVID-19 precautions, a lot of local spas have opened their spas (mostly for massages). If you’re in the DMV-area, the Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, VA is about 2 hours away and is the best spa/resort I’ve been to on the East Coast AND it’s black-owned! (It’s pricey, but worth it!) The spas at The Watergate Hotel and The W in DC are amazing options as well!
9. follow @noemiegaines and @kiergaines on IG
Shameless plug (lmao), but honestly, we’re truly a vibe. My husband is a licensed mental health counselor and his life’s work is to help people have better relationships with themselves. He will check TF out of you in the sweetest but realest way. I am *not a licensed professional, but I’m more of the homegirl that will be your accountability partner on your mental health journey! Here a few pieces of content to noodle on:
The Sit Down Talk, if you’re into relationship stuff!
Hopefully I’ve introduced you to something new, or at least got your wheels spinning about ways to intentionally incorporate me-time and self-care into your life. Feel free to comment your ideas below!! Does anything on this list stand out to you??
<3 noémie
