Self Care.....a phrase thrown out often but what does it actually mean??? For me, self care means doing my best to nourish myself, mentally, emotionally and physically. This realization, this definition evolved for me after years of running myself wild through people pleasing and leaving myself for last. You cannot pour into others if you're running on empty, so after 34 years of running on empty I've finally began to focus on caring for myself.
"But I don't have time for self care!" A phrase I used to say often until I realized that self care doesn't have to be complicated. It just needs to be intentionally practiced everyday.
So, here's a few ways I care for me, daily.
Coffee & Morning Journaling
I discovered the Five Minute Journal a few months ago and it's the perfect addition to my morning coffee. Each page has an inspiring quote and then a few prompts to help set a positive focus for the day. Taking a few minutes each morning to journal and sip my coffee feels extravagant and leisurely. A small act of self love that encourages me to focus on gratitude and what I wish to accomplish in the day.
At Home Pampering
In the past, booking a trip for myself or going to a yoga class or sauna session would be my go to pampering. But with the craziness of this year, I've figured out ways to pamper myself at home.
One of my latest favorites is the Oral-B iO toothbrush. It's a game changer for at home brushing, cleaning, whitening and over all dental care.
One of the many things that "sold" me on it and encouraged me to add it to my pampering was the 6 Smart Modes: Daily Clean, Intense, Whitening, Gum Care, Sensitive, Super Sensitive
An option like the new Oral-B iO is a game-changing, completely reimagined and redesigned rechargeable toothbrush that offers a professional-clean feeling every time you brush. Its advanced features, like AI recognition and micro-vibrating bristles, ensure you reach all areas of your mouth and provide a deeper cleaning of teeth and gum as proven in clinical tests.
Here's a few brushing tips that I've found helpful:
Be thorough, yet gentle. The outer surfaces of your teeth may be most visible when you flash a grin, but the inside and top surfaces need brushing attention, too. And while you focus on reaching every nook and cranny, be wary of brushing too hard. Excess pressure can cause serious damage to your mouth and lead to gum recession. Spend two full minutes each time you brush, methodically focusing on different regions of your mouth with an appropriate amount of pressure to ensure an all-around clean.
Go beyond brushing. Make flossing part of your daily routine by using floss gently between each tooth individually and rubbing against each tooth at the gum line to loosen plaque and debris. Also be aware of signs you need to visit the dentist. Schedule a visit promptly if you notice redness or tenderness in your gums, experience pain or sensitivity to temperature changes or have other unusual symptoms that cause discomfort. Find more tips for better dental hygiene at oralb.com.
Spa treatments and facials aren't always an option for me but using a face mask (or two) and my rose quartz roller gives me the luxurious spa treatment feeling, without leaving my own bathroom.
Listening To Records & Podcasts:
Finding way to unwind without looking at my phone has been HUGE for me in the mental self care department. A recent hobby has been collecting and playing records. There's something so soothing about playing a classic and getting lost in the music.
Cozying up with a cup of tea and listening to a podcast instantly puts me in relaxation mode.
A few of my favorite Podcasts are:
Crime Junkie
Super Soul Conversations
Goal Digger
So that's it! My simple self care routine that has helped me focus on nourishing my body, mind and spirit. Some days are busy and I don't find the time to do ALL of these things, but intentionally choosing to do at least a few makes a world of difference!
*This post is in partnership with Oral-B iO but all thoughts and opinions are mine.