We're constantly being told we need to buy certain things and invest X amount of time into our "self-care routines". But can we be honest? Does anyone actually have a self-care routine that they do every single day? Personally, when I talk about my self-care routine, I really mean a process I've done once or something I'm hoping to do before the end of the year.
That said, I still try to live a healthy lifestyle and I do find myself looking for small, easy things I can do to improve my health. I've made note of a handful of things that have made a positive impacts in my life and I'm going to share them with you.
Go on a daily walk.
It seems so rudimentary to say "get your daily exercise", but I started putting everything away (whether I'm done or not) at 5PM and going on a walk no matter what. If I come back and open my work back up, then that's what has to happen; but the serotonin from the sun makes me feel so much better and it never hurts to get your body moving.
Eat veggies with at least two meals a day.
I'm tired of seeing people promote dieting. It is just not manageable or realistic. Instead, we should be making health conscious choices without limiting ourselves. Making sure there are vegetables in at least two meals a day helps accomplish two things: it ensures you're receiving the nutritious benefits they have, and also fills you up, making you less likely to mindlessly snack (but if you do, that's totally fine too).
Do...nothing?
This may sound strange, but I recently realized there's never a time where I'm just doing nothing. Maybe this is what people are talking about when they say they meditate? I'll put my phone away, sit on my couch, and just chill out. I never realized how much was constantly on my mind until I allowed myself to do nothing.
Add eucalyptus onto your shower head.
Turn your bathroom into a mini-spa by hanging eucalyptus off our showerhead. The steam releases the essential oils of the eucalyptus plant, which can aid in clearing nasal congestion and inflammation related to sinus and bronchial infections, at least temporarily.
Replace TV with something else at least once a week.
It's pretty common to put your feet up and watch Netflix while you're winding down after a work day. However, that much screen time can leave you feeling sluggish. Things I like to do instead of watching TV are: playing games, painting, cooking a new recipe, or taking on a new home project. Whatever it is, try to change it up at least once a week.