4 Easy Ways to Treat Yourself RSS

Written by Jamie Barrows

Today is National Self-Care Day!

It can be hard to make some time for yourself. We often get so caught up in work or school tasks, family life, and personal obligations that we don't even realize we need a break. Mental health is a hot topic right now for a great reason. Societal norms are finally shifting to adapt to the realization that mental health is just as important (or even more so) as our physical well-being.

Practicing self-care is vital to maintaining overall health, and you should certainly participate in some moments for yourself. It doesn't have to be an extravagant spa day or a trip to Cancun. It can be small rituals that help regulate your stress levels. Here are a few little ways to treat yourself and make a big difference in your mood and motivation.  

Turn Your Bathroom into a Spa

What is everyone's favorite way to relax? Take a spa day, of course. While you may not have the time or want to spend the money on an all-inclusive spa day, you can set up your own right at home. Turn your bathroom into a mini spa sanctuary with a warm bubbly bath, candles, and soothing music. Grab a book, your favorite aromatherapeutic bar soap, and a shower pouf. Breathe deep and let the experience melt away your worries.

Connect with Nature

Did you know that taking a walk can have a physiological impact on your stress levels? A recent study suggests that spending at least 20 minutes daily in nature reduces the stress hormone cortisol significantly (Harvard Health). It doesn’t matter where you do it; a local park, a green area outside of your workplace, or a hike at a local nature preserve. Take that walk! Nature has a calming influence and can restore your mental energy. Take some time to disconnect and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.

Get New Agey

Sometimes all you really need is a little alone time or a way to clear your mind. Practicing mindful meditation or taking a gentle yoga class is a wonderful way to do just that. Exercise breathing techniques and self-awareness as these practices can help ease your mind, promote clarity and inner peace, and reduce stress. These "new-age" mental relaxation methods have become so popular over the last few decades due to their therapeutic abilities. Even short sessions can provide inner stability and mood improvements.

Get Back to Your Creative Roots

Another idea to calm those nerves is to replace your stressors with a joyful hobby. Whether painting, reading a good book, gardening, or playing a musical instrument, doing something creative can be a source of personal fulfillment and pleasure. As we age, we often push our hobbies aside to focus solely on work and family tasks. Returning to the things you love can be a source of pleasure and fulfillment. It allows you to express yourself, tap into your creativity, and experience a sense of accomplishment. Rediscovering your passions is an excellent way to up your self-care game.

While these tips are our favorite ways to unwind and focus on self-care, there are plenty of other ideas that are more robust (if you’re up for it) like taking a much-needed vacation or treating yourself to a little shopping spree. The important thing to remember is that self-care is not selfish. Taking care of your mental well-being is critical to cultivating a better you. These simple ideas should help you achieve that if you give yourself permission to indulge every once in a while.

At Bradford, we understand that self-care goes hand-in-hand with skincare. If you are a brand representative looking to develop a new aromatherapeutic bar soap, fragrance stick, or other personal care item, we would love to hear from you! Take a look at our product page and send us a message. We would love to help you. ●
 

Sources
Harvard Health. "A 20-minute Nature Break Relieves Stress." Harvard Health, 1 July 2019, www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/a-20-minute-nature-break-relieves-stress