We all go through those times when we’re extremely busy and consumed with work, responsibilities and just life in general. Sometimes there’s just too much on our plates, and too little time to deal with it all, including our own needs. This is when we need to stop and think: “Am I neglecting myself?” Yes, self – neglect is a thing, and often a cause of both physical and mental health issues. It’s another reason why we need to listen to our bodies and minds and know when to slow down, take some time off and focus on self – care.
Treating yourself is one of the best ways to practice self – love and self – care. And no, you don’t have to spend a fortune on designer clothing and luxurious items to “treat yo’ self”. Sometimes, it’s the little things we do for ourselves that bring us joy. Here are a few ways you can treat yourself today!
Cook your favorite meal
When was the last time you cooked for yourself? Cooking for the sake of self – care might sound weird, but just imagine actually taking some time off to make your favorite meal from scratch and have a nice dinner by yourself.
How to really treat yourself with food? Go all out: make a three course meal, get your nicest dishes, set the table, light a candle and enjoy your delicious meal. Now that sounds like a real treat, right?
Enjoy a pamper session at home
If you’re under pressure all the time, your body is probably craving for a little pamper session. You don’t have to spend hundreds on a day at the spa (although it sounds so appealing) – you can simply do it at home. Fill your tub with warm water, add a bath bomb and enjoy a calming bubble bath. While you’re at it, exfoliate your skin and apply a face mask to get rid of all the gunk from your pores and reveal soft, glowing skin. Treat your dark circles with an under eye mask, shave your legs, do your pedicure.
Create a pamper routine that works for you and helps you nurture your body and soul, one that leaves you feeling refreshed and recharged. You can go back to it whenever you need a little treat!
Go shopping
Just as mentioned above, the act of treating yourself doesn’t have to involve spending tons of money. But the truth is – there’s this rewarding feeling when you treat yourself to that nice little something you’ve been eyeing for a while. Not to mention, with your hard earned coins. So, allow yourself a little treat that won’t leave you feeling guilty, or broke.
It could be anything, really. Get that new lipstick although you already have 5 in the same shade, finally replace your worn-out phone case with a fresh one, or just go for an online shopping spree and treat yourself to some new fashion accessories.
Clean your space
Like that cleansing pamper session, a clean, neat space can lift up your spirits. You don’t have to work hard and mop the floors, wipe the windows and make your whole house squeaky clean. Let’s be real, that doesn’t sound like treating yourself at all. What you can do is create a clean environment where you feel safe and loved.
Buy yourself a big bouquet of flowers, and place it on your desk. Decorate your sofa with a chunky knit blanket and fluffy throw pillows. Use an essential oil diffuser to purify the air and surround yourself with a nice scent. Change your bed sheets and treat yourself with falling asleep in clean, fresh sheets – isn’t that the best feeling ever?
Do nothing
Yes, you can truly treat yourself by doing nothing. It’s about taking a time away from everything and allowing yourself to hang out and do nothing. Have a nap, meditate, watch a TV show without paying attention to it, let your thoughts wander with a good book…
Just take a break as an act of self – kindness. Have a few relaxing moments on your own and be totally unproductive. Treat yo’ self with some time just for YOU!
Can you remember the last time you did something good for yourself? What’s your favorite way of practicing self – care?
Let me know in the comments below!