By Tammy Mastroberte
Most of us are so busy with work, family, friends, and life in general, we sometimes forget to take time to nurture and love ourselves. Maybe we find ourselves getting angry easily, or frustrated with things around us that we can’t control. Or maybe we are moving non-stop from waking in the morning until our head hits the pillow at night.
We have to remember to take time out for ourselves. If we don’t, we won’t be as helpful to others. And no, it’s not selfish. It’s self-love! Here are some suggestions for you to practice self-care:
1. Take time every day to meditate, clear and recharge your mind – even if it’s only 10 minutes in the morning and 10 minutes before bed.
2. If you like to look through magazines, whether fashion, spiritual or hobby focused, cut out pictures or items of interest to you and put them in a “manifestation box,” or tape them to a poster board. Look at these before you meditate, or at times when you need a lift. Know that they are coming to you.
3. Put on an inspirational CD – whether a recorded talk from one of your favorite authors, or music that makes you feel good (see the Read, Watch, Listen section of our quarterly magazine for some great recommendations) and clean up the clutter around you. Come on … you know it’s there. We know it’s there. You will feel better when it’s gone!
4. Pamper yourself. Take a bath, treat your skin with your favorite oil or moisturizer, make
a cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate, and curl up with your favorite throw for a good movie … or a good book.
5. Plan a game night with friends to relax, laugh and share with others. You can pick a fun and interactive board game (or even a DVD interactive game). Better yet, create a monthly game night, and alternate homes each time.
6. Treat yourself to something out of the ordinary. Splurge on that favorite coffee drink. Book a one-hour massage. Buy a new candle to fragrance your home or office.
7. Grab your mp3 player and go for a walk outside in nature. It’s good for your mind and body, and if you bring a friend with you, you don’t need the music!
8. If you had a choice to spend an hour doing anything you wanted, what would you do? Work on a hobby? Talk to a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while? Browse in a bookstore? Schedule an hour for yourself in your calendar right now to do whatever you pick.
9. Spend quality time with children — your own, your grandchildren, your niece, your
nephew, etc. Their innocence will always make you smile, and remember how simple life can really be.
10. Take a yoga class. It’s one of the best ways to take a time out and connect your mind and body.
These are just a few of the ways you can take time out and practice self-care.
What do you do to take care of you? I’d love to hear more of your suggestions!
Tammy Mastroberte
Founder, Publisher & Editorial Director
Elevated Existence Magazine