5 Days of Self-Care Practices

It’s self-care week. Yay!!! Below you will find five days of self-care practices to help you navigate this thing called life. Enjoy!

Day 1 – Controlled Breathing

Whether you listen to a meditation, relaxation music, or breathe in silence, take time to rest and practice intentional breathing. Start by counting to 4 while you inhale, and 4 while you exhale. Try to clear your mind and think about nothing but your breath. Then increase that to 6 in and out, then 8 in and out. After that, try not to think about your breathing anymore and just let it flow. This practice can help calm your nerves, slow your heart rate, and still your racing thoughts. 

Day 2 – Nature Walk

Get outdoors and spend time in nature. Take a walk in the park or around your neighborhood. Go somewhere you can see trees and flowers. Put your phone on silent, and listen to the sounds of nature. Hear the birdsong and the wind in the trees. What else do you hear? Use all of your senses. What do you smell? What colors do you see? Touch the leaves. Say hello to a tree.

Day 3 – Stretch

For 10 minutes, stretch your body. Find a guided online routine or do your own thing. Sometimes I put on music and do gentle stretches. I do whatever feels good. I stretch whatever feels stiff on my body. Start by putting your hands over your head and reach up to the sky. Slowly bend over and touch your toes. Sit on the floor and stretch your legs. Twist gently to each side. Do some yoga moves, or leg lifts. Do everything very slowly and gently. Make your body fluid.

Day 4 – Skin Care

Take some time for yourself and moisturize your skin. Give yourself a facial by using a facial sheet mask, a mud mask, or a cleansing balm that you gently massage into your skin. After a bath or shower, massage an oil, cream, or butter into your skin. Pay special attention to your feet and hands. My hands are a mess after a winter of dry cold air and disinfecting wipes. Show your face and body some love.

Day 5 – Eat Vegetables

Food can be a form of self-care too. Make a meal today full of fresh vegetables. Use a variety of colors. You can make a salad, a quick stir-fry, or a sheet pan of roasted veggies. Vegetables are full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They can give you an energy boost and make you feel more positive. Self-care starts with good nutrition. Your inside is just as important as your outside. 

I hope you enjoy these five days of self-care practices. Do you have any self-care tips to share? Let me know in the comments below.