Make A List Of 5 Simple Self-Care Routines You Can Fall Back On When Needed

Beneficial habits like self-care often go by the wayside during stressful times. It can be difficult to focus on anything but the bare minimum when life gets hard. The fact is, though, that these are the days when you most need to take care of yourself. One way to have a self-care toolkit to help you out during these instances. Having a list of self-care routines can make it easier for you to implement them when needed. Here are some other tricks to get you through the tough times...

Make a List

Let's start with your list of at least five activities you can easily fit into your life during the most stressful times. Keeping this reminder handy will give you the benefit of caring for yourself without having to think about it too much. This list can include simple reminders like getting enough sleep by going to bed at a reasonable time, eating your favorite, nourishing food to keep your energy up, getting outside and/or being physically active, and asking for help when you need it. These are some of the things we forget or let slide when we've got a lot on our plates. During difficult times the very basic foundations of self-care can be the most important. 

Create a Feel-Good Package

Another way to boost your chances of keeping self-care and self-compassion in the forefront during tough times is to prepare a "rescue" package that you can go for when needed. This could include some of your favorite, little indulgences, such as: a good book, herbal teas, a facial mask, a good DVD, CD or playlist ready to cue up on your phone or computer, a scented candle, a small bag of favorite cookies, some essential oils, a beautiful journal with a favorite pen -- Include anything that brings you comfort or joy. Being able to reach for this when you're stressed can mean the world to you and make a huge difference in how you're coping. 

Involve Your Crew

When things look bleak, you may require a bit of help to get back on track. It's a good idea to reach out to trusted friends and family. Get into the habit of checking in from time-to-time so that they can get a feel for how you're doing. Talk to your closest confidantes and let them know you would love it if they backed you up and encouraged you to keep up with your self-care routine, no matter what. Let them know that you'll do the same for them if they want. Share with them the benefits and tell them you'd appreciate their assistance if they think you're slipping with self-care. Sometimes those who really know us and with whom we've shared our deepest selves can see things before we do and help us nip them in the bud. When your "crew" or posse knows how you roll and you do the same for them, you can all reinforce your self-care needs during times of stress.

A little planning ahead makes your self-care routine easier. Always remember that it's during the hardest times that we need to make time to nurture ourselves the most. 

Sparkles and Love,