If you feel completely overwhelmed by your bustling, packed schedule and are always trying to catch up with your to-do list, you’re not alone. Finding the balance between caring for your family and caring for yourself can be challenging, especially when you’re used to putting your family first.
Although it’s important to manage your family’s health and ensure their well-being and health are taken care of, it’s just as important that you take the time to prioritize and care for yourself – even in the midst of a busy schedule.
Fortunately, self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or fancy. There are many ways you can practice self-care without adding more tasks to your to-do list and overwhelming yourself. To help you unwind and put yourself first, we’ve put together a list of simple self-care ideas that you can do in 30 minutes or less.
1. Take a warm bath
Need a quick self-care moment? Unwind and de-stress by taking a warm bath. There’s nothing quite like soaking in a warm tub after a long, stressful day and enjoying some much needed rest. Try adding Epsom salts, essential oils or lighting a candle to create a calming atmosphere.
2. Take a walk outside
Take a walk outside of your home to help reset your mind, while enjoying the outdoors. Whether you live in the countryside or the middle of a busy city, fresh air can do wonders for your well-being and mental health. Take a break from your everyday surroundings and routine with a walk outside your neighborhood.
3. Read a book
Reading a book you enjoy and can get lost in is a great way to take a break from your everyday stressors and disconnect. Escape the everyday noise, anxieties, and stress by reading a few pages of a book, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
4. Write a journal entry
Practice releasing your feelings and emotions by writing an entry in your journal. You don’t have to write a long journal entry – write about whatever comes to mind. Release any stressful thoughts, anger, or resentments you’ve been holding onto. Writing down your feelings in a journal entry is great for your mental health and can help you become more self-aware of your emotions.
5. Stretch or do yoga
There’s nothing like a good stretch or slow yoga class to help you get out of your head. Moving your body can help release any built-up stress you may have and not even know it. Lay out your mat and meditate during a slow, relaxing yoga class to find your center and calm.
6. Take a nap
Who says kids are the only ones who can enjoy a good nap? If you’re feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, take a short nap to rest and relax. When you wake up, you’ll feel a lot more refreshed and energized to take on the rest of the day.
7. Watch your favorite movie or show
Sometimes, the best thing you can do for yourself is to spend some time watching your favorite Netflix series. Watch part of your favorite movie or show to unwind without feeling guilty that you’re not being productive enough. It’s perfectly okay to take a break and spend time doing something you enjoy.
8. Have a cup of tea
It sounds so simple, but a warm cup of tea can be just what you need after a long day. Invite a friend over to enjoy a cup of tea with you or make yourself a cup and enjoy a few minutes of peace and quiet.
When you’re responsible for caring for your family or managing their health, you may feel pressure to always be productive and on the go. But, to be able to do the best you can for your family, you need to prioritize yourself, too. Even if you only have a few minutes a week, set aside some time to put yourself first with these simple self-care practices.