With the holiday season in the rearview mirror, and the world in the state that it’s in, stress seems to still be lingering, and even compounding. We understand that real problems require real answers, and that a spa day doesn’t fix everything. But reducing stress is so important to our overall wellbeing. So this year, gift yourself by filling your calendar with some post holiday self-care!
Self-care is often overlooked and pushed to the bottom of the to-do list. Already this year, stress and uncertainty has taken over a large corner of our minds. Nonetheless, self-care is extremely important as it helps encourage maintaining healthy relationships and peace of mind.
Below is a list of self-care ideas to get you started so you can care for yourself during the year to help de-stress!
Self Reflection Journaling
A great way to calm the mind after a long stressful day is to journal. Practicing self-reflection journaling can help you set goals for yourself, become more mindful or have a safe place to get things off your mind. If you aren’t sure where to start, check out this free journal entry printable complete with mindful prompts.
Take a Walk Outside
Spending time outside is proven to reduce stress levels, lower your heart rate and stimulate the immune system. Needless to say, taking a walk in nature provides both physical and mental health benefits. Even if you can only spare a small increment of time, taking a walk out in nature is something you want to add to your self-care to-do list.
Write Yourself a Love Letter
An important aspect of self-care is being kind to yourself and practicing self-love, so start by writing yourself a thoughtful love letter. You can address it to yourself and put it away for when you need a little reminder of just how special you are. List things you love and admire about yourself, no matter how big or small they might be. If you are in need of a place to begin, check out this printable self-love letter to get you started.
Be Present
We have a bad habit of not really being in the moment due to all the distractions around us, so give yourself the gift of being present. Put your phone away, glance away from the TV and take in the atmosphere of those closest to you. Make memories that you will cherish for years to come.
Do Something Nice For Someone Else
Since the holiday season is a time for giving, try doing something nice for someone else, whether it’s volunteering at a local organization, donating to charity or buying a coffee for the person behind you in line at the drive thru. Helping others does so much for our own emotional and mental health so find a way to give to others and make it an act of self-care. Another fun and cute way to brighten someone’s day is by surprising them with one of these punny and positive holiday cards!
Self-care is all about nourishing yourself and making yourself feel good, so do whatever makes you happy! For more ideas, download this 25 days of self-care calendar, complete with 25 treat yourself ideas to start the new year feeling refreshed and rejuvenated!
