Whether you’re spending Valentine’s Day with someone you love, or you’re single and ready to mingle, it’s always a good excuse to give love to the most important person in life: yourself.
When we preach about health we reference the usual suspects: good nutrition, exercise, sleep, etc. Self-care is often at the bottom of the list and with the hectic lives we all lead, it can be hard to focus on. But I can’t emphasize enough how important it is.
When we nurture our mind and body, we create happiness and positive mental health for ourselves. These two things are the most important factors in leading a healthy life. So take some time this week to slow down and do what YOU love or what makes YOU feel amazing. For me, some of my favorite self-care methods are taking a day off from the gym and doing a yoga class, cooking dinner with friends, or enjoying some dark chocolate and wine.
To get you started, here’s a list of ways to treat yoself and foster some self-care:
- Have a cup of tea
- Get at least 8 hours of sleep
- Read one of your favorite books
- Go to a yoga class, spin class, or exercise class you love
- Meditate
- Cook a healthy recipe
- Draw, paint, or knit
- Write a short story, poem, or blog post
- Take a walk
10. Make a DIY facemask
11. Bake your favorite cookies
12. Play a board game with your friends or family
13. Cozy up under a comfortable blanket and watch a movie
14. Diffuse some essential oils
15. Listen to music
16. Paint your nails
17. Take a bubble bath
18. Stretch or foam roll
19. Burn some scented candles
20. Get a massage