It seems so simple, right? Self-care. Doing things that put you in position to be the best version of you. But it's not for so many of us. There is a reason why expecting mothers should eat a particular diet and why we are told to put on our oxygen masks before helping a neighbor. If we are not well, how can we help those that need us most?
I recently went on a trip to Maui with a goal to not only get away from the hustle and bustle of my daily life but to re-center, refocus and to think about what I wanted. I realized that it had been almost 2 years since my last vacation and my mental/emotional state reflected it.
So what did I do in Maui? I RELAXED! I took long walks along the beach, basked in the sun, swam, and drank Mai Tai's until I couldn’t take it anymore. I took time to enjoy life and appreciate all of my blessings.
I decided not to wait for marriage or for a group of friends to join me. Heck! Why do we tend to wait to do the things that we want to do? Do them now!... simply because you're worth it!
I know, I know. It's not as easy as it sounds. And some may ask, how do I begin the process of taking care of me first?
Well there's a number of ways that I personally like to remind myself that I'm worth it….
1. Take a spontaneous trip
Take a trip! It doesn't need to be anything extravagant. Sometimes the best and most relaxing trips are the ones not too far from home. Most times we just need a space to simply decompress.
A slight change of scenery can work wonders in reducing stress and promoting positive overall mental health.
It also serves as a reminder that your career and other issues in life is not your end all be all. The world is a vast place and once we are able to look beyond the small radius of the area we live, our problems become much smaller.
2. Get a massage
Massages are amazing! I tend to carry a lot of tension in my neck and shoulders, and having someone release that tension is an answered prayer.
Treat yourself to a relaxing massage. The tension we carry in our muscles can be astounding at times. A massage can improve circulation, reduce stress and even promote immunity and digestive health.
3. Buy that outfit or shoes you always wanted
PSA, This is not a recommendation for the shopaholics of the world. But if you are a person who constantly puts the clothing needs of others (your kids, your parents, friends) ahead of yourself, it is now time to buy yourself something nice.
A new pair of heels or a nice fitted skirt can do wonders for your self-esteem.
4. Take yourself on a date
Honey, take yourself out! Don't wait for someone else to ask you out. If you want that steak dinner, go buy yourself that steak dinner.
Spend time dating and getting to know yourself. And don't be afraid to do it alone!
5. Meditate
Meditation is proven to provide tremendous value to your mental, physical and spiritual health. It can increase your attention span, reduce memory loss, promote emotional health, and even reduces anxiety.
I've made a habit of meditating for at least 5 minutes prior to getting out of bed every morning. It's not always easy, but it's worth it.
6. Be an avid learner
Investing in yourself is one of the best ways to love you! Challenge yourself to reach new heights and become the best version of you that you can be.
There are cognitive, intellectual, monetary, and social benefits to being a lifelong learner. Remember to not only invest in things that make you look good on the outside, but those that make you well on the inside also.
7. Exercise
Y'all know it was coming! Exercising reduces stress, makes you feel happier, look better, increases your energy. Must I go on? You know how important exercise is to your overall well-being. Be diligent about incorporating it in your day to day.
8. Positive Affirmations
Simply waking up in the morning, looking yourself in the mirror and saying "you are brilliant, you are bright, you are beautiful, can do amazing things to your overall well-being.
It also helps to keep you in a constant state of gratitude.
Remember, there is only one you and you have major things to accomplish in your lifetime. In order to fulfill your purpose you have to be the best version of you that you can be.
So start today!