heart-drawing-girl.jpg
Self Care September

Who knew drawing focus to self care had its own month?!

September is Self–Care Awareness Month and is a time to remind us that taking care of ourselves, first and foremost, is essential. Seems fitting after spending the last few months trying to serve others and plan epic vacations, huh? Self-care is often neglected in our everyday lives when we tend to put others needs before our own. It's time to remember, that we cannot fill another’s cup from our own empty vessel.

While getting a massage or taking a walk are wonderful examples of taking time for our well-being, self-care can be broader than that. Self-care knows no boundaries and is something that everyone can benefit from practicing on a daily basis. True self-care is not self-centered nor selfish; it is simply keeping yourself the focus of your own life. It’s about paying attention to how you feel in each moment, communicating clearly, speaking up for yourself and saying yes or no…judgement free.

Take the month of September to make self care a part of your daily routine. It can be as simple as a conscious breath in the morning before you rise, to as luxurious as a mountain retreat, spending time away from everyday life. The gentle kindness we show ourselves will manifest into a kinder approach to the world.

Need a few more daily reminders? Check out this sweet daily calendar from Action for Happiness on hints on integrating self care into your routine. Or try a few of our favorites:

  • Unplug for one hour
  • Block or delete any negativity in your social feeds
  • Try new healthy recipes to mix up your routine
  • Take 10 slow and deep breaths at the end of every hour or when you notice yourself feeling stressed. (Set a timer to remind yourself!)
  • Treat yourself to a spa date or an at home spa night
  • Crank up your favorite music and dance
  • Do yoga--at home or in class
  • Snuggle with pets
  • Start an artsy project
  • Read a new book
  • Take a walk outside and enjoy the fresh crisp air.
  • Surround yourself with positivity--funny pictures, uplifting words, or mindful sayings