5 Ways I Practice Self Care
We are back, discussing one of my all time favorite subjects, self-care. I feel like I can speak for most of us when I say how grateful I am that the term “self care” has evolved. When I was younger, self care was such a luxury term. A decadent massage or a pricey facial were usually what came to mind. Over the years, my approach to self-care (and I think so many others) has evolved. We are all (hopefully) seeming to recognize how mandatory taking time for yourself is. To me, self-care is small, consistent rituals that help me feel grounded, confident, and present. While they will look different for everyone, I wanted to share with you 5 of my current favorite self care acts, in hopes that they inspire you to carve time our of your day for YOU!
5 Ways I Practice Self Care
1. Daily Meditation
I used to think meditation had to be an elaborate practice—sitting in complete silence for 30-60 minutes, my mind perfectly still. Believe me when I say this is so far from the case! Some days, my meditation is five minutes of deep breathing. Other days, it's a guided meditation or even just sitting in my car before walking into the house. Regardless of the format, taking a few intentional moments to be present has changed my life (I am not exaggerating). I have noticed such a huge difference in my stress levels, my patience, and my overall well-being.
If you follow me, you know that whether it’s skincare or fitness, I go for things that are science backed. Just in case you haven’t been convinced to try it for yourself yet, studies show that meditation reduces cortisol levels (the stress hormone), improves focus, and even enhances emotional resilience. Not to mention, apps like Insight Timer, Op e n, and Calm, make it so easy to find one that meets your needs.
2. Gratitude Journaling
Nothing has transformed my mindset and attitude quite like the act of gratitude. I am a firm believer that you can’t manifest more until you are grateful for what you already have. Even on days where everything feels overwhelming and heavy, writing down a few things I am grateful for (as broad or specific as I want) instantly shifts my focus.
While gratitude isn’t exactly easy on tougher days, it’s always when I need it the most. I try to reflect on what went right. If you’re not a journal person, even mentally noting a few things before bed can be a powerful habit. You can just ask yourself before falling asleep, what is something that made me smile today? It seems small but it makes a massive difference.
3. Walks (Even Short Ones!)
I know this one might sound a little silly and not necessarily something that belongs under the category of “self care,” but for me, it absolutely does! I have always loved going on walks, but I think that's only increased since my daughter Josie entered the picture. It’s so sweet to see her explore the world around her.
While I have always enjoyed walking, I don’t think I fully appreciated the benefits until I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes during my first pregnancy. I mention this in my podcast episode on continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), but I started incorporating walks into my routine post-meal. For starters, I just love the ritual of it, but I cannot begin to tell you how much of a difference it made on my blood sugar results. Whether I am eating something indulgent, or just a regular meal, my blood sugar spike is so much smaller!I ended up keeping the habit after my first pregnancy, and to this day, I use it as often as I can.
4. Family Time (Unplugged)
My husband Jim and I are busier than ever, and I think that’s what’s made us appreciate time completely unplugged together with our daughter Josie. We have a routine of going for a walk or bike ride after dinner, and I’m not even kidding when I say it’s the highlight of my day.
Not only has this created uninterrupted time with my family, but it has also made me more intentional about my screen time. Now, I set aside specific windows where I’m completely focused on responding to questions on Instagram or catching up online. When that time is up, I can put my phone away and prioritize being present.
5. Taking Extra Time to Get Ready
Again, while this might not seem like a typical "self-care" act, it has had such a positive impact for me. Jim and I switch off who gets up with Josie in the mornings, and on the mornings when he is with her, I use that time to get a little extra ready.
In an ideal world, I get to do a full skincare routine (including ice rolling and microcurrent treatments), my wash day routine, and then finish with a touch of makeup and real clothes (aka not leggings). It just feels like a small thing I can do to show up for myself. There’s a trend on tik tok right now that says something like “taking 10 extra minutes, for a better 10 hours.” The sentiment being to take a bit more time to get ready, and in doing so, you end up feeling better and more productive throughout the day.
I hope this helps gives you a little inspiration when it comes to self care practices! These have truly changed my life and I don’t say that lightly.
