Self-care is being aware of your own needs and taking the necessary steps to meet them. The demands of work, parenthood, and other commitments often lead to stress. With the added health crisis, social media, and daily news, you may quickly be overwhelmed. Take a step back, breath, and remember to take time for yourself. Do you need ideas for self-care? Check out the following list for July.
- Hydrate: Staying hydrated is essential for your health, especially in the summer. No, you don’t need to give up your morning coffee, just remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Don’t Forget Your Fruits and Veggies: Often, in the summertime, quick meals lead to unhealthy choices. Remember to get your daily intake of fruits and vegetables.
- Go Outdoors: Yes, social distancing and other restrictions are still in place but even get outside. Go for a hike, walk around the block, stroll through the city park, or take an extra trip to the dog park. Being outdoors, even for an additional hour, is good for your well-being.
- Happy Independence Day, USA! Watch the fireworks. Due to the coronavirus, many events have restrictions or canceled. Watching fireworks from your own vehicle is a safe way to enjoy the holiday. If you do not want to leave home, many PBS stations host 4th of July concerts with fireworks. Enjoy the show from your own couch.
- Make a Summer Playlist of Your Favorite Songs
- Start a Journal
- Create a Vision Board: Fill your board with anything that personally inspires or motivates you. Then, take the necessary steps to transform your goals into reality.
- Unplug: Step away from your computer, cell phone, or other electronic devices. Turn off the news. Unplugging for an hour, an afternoon, or a day can positively impact your mood.
- Buy Yourself Flowers
- Declutter Your Closet
- Take a Long Bubble Bath
- Give Yourself an In-Home Spa Treatment
- Make Your Favorite Meal: Yes, it can be a dessert.
- Call a Friend
- Meditate or Pray
- Do Morning Yoga or Stretching Exercises
- Watch the Sunrise or Sunset
- Take a Long Afternoon Nap
- Go on a Picnic: If the weather is uncooperative, host a picnic in your living room.
- Read a Book
- Go to the Farmer’s Market: Great place to get your fruits and veggies while supporting your community.
- Go for a Ride: Fill up your car and just drive.
- Set Goals for the Second Half of 2020
- Do Crafts on a Rainy Day
- Learn to Say, “No”: Too many commitments can lead to added stress.
- Spend an Evening (or Entire Weekend) Binge-Watching: Re-watch your favorite television series or discover something new.
- Paint or Draw: Bringing out your inner artists does not have to break the bank. Head to your local dollar store and buy some necessary supplies.
- Listen to a New Podcast
- Buy Yourself Something New: Treating yourself can be as simple as trying a new type of cracker to purchasing an entire outfit. Just do something new for yourself.
- Send a Friend or Family Member a Letter: Or join a pen pal organization and write to someone new.
- Make a Goal List for August
Rebecca's Country Notes 