We live in a fast-paced world, where we always appear to have something to do and a seemingly never-ending to-do list. However, if you don't take time out for yourself and practice self-care, there's the very real threat of burning out.
The irony of being burned out is that you won't have as much time for the things you love, like your family. When it comes to practicing self-care, it's always quality over quantity. You don't have to block out half a day and spend two-thirds of your paycheck to rejuvenate yourself. Let's talk about five self-care ideas that anyone can try.
- Get Coloring
Remember when you were a kid, and you had all the time in the world to sit around and color? You may not have realized it at the time, but this was a pretty novel idea. These days, we hardly have time to make ourselves a cup of tea.
Self-care is all about being intentional about the time you take for yourself. This means removing all distractions and really focusing in on the task at hand. Get yourself an adult coloring book, some coloring in pencils, lock yourself away for half an hour or so, and go to town. Coloring is not only calming, but it lets you express your creative side, too.
- Go to a Gallery
If you'd rather get out and about to practice self-care, why not check out that art exhibition you've been thinking about going to for a while now. Not only will you be able to go at your own pace, but you'll also be able to enjoy the quiet, and you may even be able to spot things that you would miss if you were distracted with others there.
You can even experience a guided headphone tour and get out of your head completely. Most of the time, exhibitions are cheap and sometimes even free.
- Bake a Treat
How often do you find yourself baking for other members of the family? Perhaps you’re the friend that’s always baking something for the rest of the group. This time, why not try a new recipe that you’ve had your eye on for a while, and make it for nobody else but yourself?
This is a great way to chill out, spend some time alone, and get a delicious treat out of it at the end. You won’t need to worry about what anyone else thinks of the finished product, and you’ll be using your hands to create a cathartic experience.
- Watch Your Favorite Show
If you've got kids, you may find that you put yourself second a lot of the time in terms of what you want to watch. When life is busy, and the kids are taking up the TV in the evening, it can be hard to catch up on that season you had been hoping to finish.
Why not try to fit it in one night when the kids are asleep, and the husband is out? Grab a glass of wine, a snack, and indulge in your favourite show. As much as our brain needs stimulation, it also needs time to relax and be entertained.
- Go for a Phone-Free Walk
There’s nothing harder than going for a walk without your phone. Whether it’s work that might call, or you’re worried about the kids, it’s hard to put it down, leave it at home, and enjoy the walk without it.
However, taking a bit of time out for self-care by going for a walk without your device is a great way to clear your head, and do a mini digital detox. Walking can not only help improve your mood, but it can also relieve any stress you may have built up.