In today’s fast-paced world, self-care is more important than ever.
Whether you call it self-care or ‘me time’, at its core it is about taking care of you so you feel rejuvenated, recharged and ready to take on anything.
Building a self-care routine that works is about creating practices and moments where you take time out from day-to-day activities and responsibilities and look after yourself.
And it really works, as research suggests that making time for rituals where you nurture yourself can help to relieve stress and improve your emotional wellbeing, health and overall quality of life.
Keep in mind that self-care can be different for everyone. It may look like getting your nails done for one person or healthy meal prep for another, there is no right or wrong – it’s about finding what works for you.
Need some inspiration? Here’s 11 self-care ideas to try.
Get moving
Exercise and moving your body is super effective for stress reduction and boosting endorphins. Whether you feel like your best self after a run, love the fun of a dance class or prefer a focused stretch or yoga session, get active and get moving!
Connect with a friend
Chatting to or seeing a friend when you feel low can be a mood-lifting miracle. Feeling connected is important for everyone and talking about things with someone else can be very healing.
Learn to meditate
Set aside some time each day to meditate, a practice that has been proven to give you a sense of calm, peace and balance, while also benefitting your emotional wellbeing and overall health.
Apps like Calm, Insight Timer or Headspace can help you learn to meditate, so you’ll stress less, sleep more, and be happier and healthier.
Take a nap
Listen to your body and rest when you need to. As women, our hormones can play a part in our energy levels throughout the month, and sometimes we need to give in and take some time out to sleep.
Spend time in nature
Hanging out in green spaces – whether that’s your garden or the local park – can lower your stress levels and improve your feelings of wellbeing.
Sit in silence
We live in a world where we are surrounded by noise. Allow yourself some time to just sit and enjoy the stillness and silence, and zone out. Add in a soothing cup of tea or enjoy a glass of Kim Crawford and you’re on the right track.
Get dressed up
Feeling good can sometimes come from looking good. Take the time to make an effort with your appearance. Whether it’s starting a skincare routine, getting your hair done or working on your wardrobe and pulling out some outfits that help you look your best.
Turn off your phone
You may not realise, but your phone is an energy sapper. Being constantly connected and available can take its toll. Try turning your phone off during the day, tune into yourself and find a bit more balance. If you need to take baby steps, start by leaving your phone in another room, so it’s not by your side 24/7. Every little bit helps.
Deactivate social media
Go one step further than just turning off your phone and delete your social accounts. While for some people social media can make them feel more connected, for others it can be stressful and can cause comparison to others. Even deactivating for a few days can make a difference.
Write a gratitude list
Self-reflection is an essential part of self-care. Thinking of moments, things, and people you are grateful for can shift your outlook to be more positive. Try and come up with five things you are grateful for each time you make a list.
Enjoy a bath
Is there anything better than sinking into a bath of warm bubbles to release the stress of a long day?
Kim Crawford is one of New Zealand’s most exciting and innovative wine producers. The winery started out in a small cottage in Auckland, New Zealand and since its launch in 1996, the label has gained critical acclaim around the globe.
Available at all good bottle shops. Drink responsibly.
