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We all have neglected ourselves at one time or another or even maybe most of the time. We get so busy taking care of everyone else, our jobs, families, and our homes that we forget our own self care. Life gets crazy sometimes if you allow it. It especially gets out of sorts if you are also battling other life changes as well.
I have posted below a few pointers to help relieve some stress in your life and find a balance in mind, body, and spirit. Always take time for you. Create a daily routine that becomes a habit for you to get some you time daily.
Here is a breathing technique which is very helpful for relieving stress in the body and mind.
How to breathe
Exhale completely through your mouth, making sure to breathe out completely. Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose to a mental count of four. Hold your breath for a count of eight. Exhale completely through your mouth, making sure to breathe out completely to a count of eight. Concentrate on only your breathing while doing this exercise. Try to let go of other thoughts that may be spinning around in your brain. You can do this several times a day and from wherever you are and can be five or ten minutes or as long as you want.
For those that are new to meditation and want to meditate.
How to Meditate
To begin the practice of mindful meditation, find a quiet place free of distractions. Set a timer for five minutes or ten minutes or how however long you would like to start with and sit comfortably on the floor or in a chair. Then close your eyes and connect with your breath by focusing on your breathing without trying to direct it. Your breath is your anchor to the present moment. When your mind wanders off in thought just bring focus back to your breath.
Here is a great suggestion I found online to help to keep the mind from wondering.
To help, the Zen Mountain Monastery suggests that beginners count their breaths. Count one breath in, one breath out, and continue through 10 breaths, then return to one again. This process helps connect your mind to your breath, especially when thoughts can sometimes break your concentration. Every time your thoughts wander, start back at one. Eventually, you’ll be able to just follow your breath without counting. There are many forms of meditation. The meditation above is a mindful meditation practice. You will find what works for you.
Some other ideas for self-care are:
1) Journal
2) Enjoy Nature
3) Nap
4) Read a Book
5) Go get a facial or give yourself one
6) Epson Salt and Lavender bath
7) Get a Massage
8) Light candles and relax
9) Garden
10) Watch a movie
These are a few ideas. There are many things that you can do for you and you will find the ones that are for you.
Also if you have ideas that work for you feel free to post them below.
Have a Happy Day.
Kelly
32 thoughts on “Take time for your self – More self care ideas”
Bola
Ha! Self care is absolutely important but somehow it mostly takes the back burner. I hope this helps us get back on track.
jennifer
This is a nice post. Always need to be reminded of these things regularly. I feel like I know them but how often we allow things to get too busy to remember.
Kirsten
I just listened to a podcast about self care – this post is perfect timing for me! Thanks for the ideas!
Carmen
Great ideas. I need to do these more!
Diane
It is soooo necessary. As a mom of two competitive sports boys and an owner of multiple businesses, downtime does not exist. Unless I make it and sometimes the first step is just saying NO to something to create a window of time. However, you have to schedule this downtime or me time or it won’t happen. Here’s to Personal Time!
Elizabeth Miller Sliwa
Great suggestions- even the reminder of how to breathe correctly- I rarely do! Also, I read a book last week for the first time in a long time. I love to read but normally don’t make the time bc it’s a low priority. I’m so glad I made the time- what a joy to enjoy a good book.
Vicki Belanger
It is so important to take time for yourself! These are great ideas!
Monica
I think I’m going to get a massage and read a book at the same time 🙂 taking care of o self for should be a bigger deal than it is
Melissa
I like your ideas! What also works for me are body sensory exercises.
Monique
Wonderful suggestions! Self-care is one of my favorite subjects too. Great job!
Lisa
Good reminders. I know I need an extra time to myself after a very busy time. Like right now! After Halloween, business trips and birthday parties I need some time to relax!
Gina
These are really good ideas for self care – it is so easy to neglect ourselves, especially when the busy holiday season shows up! Thanks for sharing!
Christy
Self care is SOOOOO important! Thanks for all the suggestions.
Lisa
I have tried similar breathing techniques to help with insomnia and they really help. Thanks for the tips!
Pernille
I struggle with my mind wandering when I am doing things that are supposed to be silent. I will try to count my breaths.
Heidi
People underestimate the power of meditating. It makes you feel so renewed afterward!
Jen
I take time to meditate everyday. It has helped me more than anything and I just love that time to myself.
Kimberly
These are great! I need to take more time to pamper myself as a mother of 3 kids under 4!
Laura Belle
Sticking to my self-care routines is all the keeps me sane most of the time. It is so important.
Kimberli
Great tips thanks !
Monica
Never thought to give myself a facial. I like that idea and think I’ll try it soon. Thanks!
kiersten
I am the worst napper, and I really wish I could do it! My husband is great at taking that break for a nap and is so refreshed afterward – I’m so jealous. Perhaps meditation is the next best thing?
Jessica
There are definitely times when I overthink! Thank for the self-care reminder!
Shanna
Yes, I need a facial and a movie. Self care is so important
Heidi
Great ideas! We all need to take time for ourselves. A massage sounds great right now! 🙂
Mollie
I would love to do 1-10 all day, every day! This is a great reminder!
Kelly
Hi Everyone, Thank you for dropping by. Remember to take care of you too. 🙂
Kim Quint
I am going to try the counting of breaths to see if that helps me to focus!
Maggie
I love breath control because you can do it anytime, anywhere for NO money. I even cold turkey quit an 18-year smoking habit by controlled breathing!! Thanks for some great self-care ideas!
Deanna
My former boss used to say that if everyone would just meditate…the world would be such a different place.
Melissa
Thank you for the reminder, I too forget to take care of myself. I was skeptical about Epsom salts until a few years ago and I could not believe how effective they are.
Brittany
As a mom with 3 kids under the age of 4, I neglect myself way too often! I love some of your ideas like the journaling, baths, taking time for a movie and lighting a candle. This was a great reminder to not forget myself in the midst of the chaos. 🙂