Self-care has been romanticized into days off and hour long bubble baths. While those luxury items are a great way to relax, they aren’t always practical for busy lives. We have put together a list of 5 self-care tasks you can do today!
1. Unplug and read a book
Being connected 24/7 seems necessary these days, but unplugging can be a gift to yourself. Don’t just mute your phone, turn that baby all the way off! Grab a book, a cozy blanket and give yourself a chance to be analog for a little while. If you’re struggling to pick what to read, the classics never go out of style, you can’t go wrong with Jane Austen or Agatha Christie.
2. Buy (or pick) fresh flowers
It’s amazing how a little greenery can brighten up your mood. Small bouquets are usually available at your local grocery store for under $10. If you’re lucky, you might live near a public field or two of wildflowers, and can gather a bunch to put in a vase.
3. Try a new recipe
New recipes don’t have to be full of crazy ingredients, some of the best meals are also the simplest. Take a look in your pantry or freezer and see if inspiration strikes. If not, turn to everyone’s favorite recipe finder, Pinterest, for some ideas. Even if you don’t fancy yourself a chef, try a pasta carbonara or a ham and cheese omelet, which require few ingredients and time.
4. Make a nostalgic playlist
An instant pick-me-up is hearing an old song that is reminiscent of a good day. Maybe it’s the song your mom would sing while cooking dinner. Maybe it’s the song you blasted while driving in high school with the windows rolled down. Maybe it’s a song from your first love. Whatever the tune, putting together a list of long forgotten favorites is a fun way to weave memorable moments together into one special playlist.
5. Declutter one area of your home
Piles of stuff is an easy way to feel anxious and overwhelmed. The antidote to anxiety is action. Pick a drawer, or closet, or even just one corner of an entire room. Set a timer for 5-20 minutes and dedicate that time to organizing, purging and tidying up that one spot. At the end of the task, you will feel calm and accomplished.
Self-care doesn’t have to take a long time or even cost any money. It’s about being purposeful in spending your time and focusing on action. Even on a busy schedule, you can make time to care for yourself.