We know the holidays can get a bit overwhelming, so we wanted to introduce 7 easy ways to practice self-care and start 2023 strong!
From pampering yourself with calming music and a beach walk, to treating yourself to healthy snacks, this week-long self-care challenge can be done anytime, anywhere. You see, when you balance rest, eating, work, and fun, you are an example for healthy living.
Monday: Nourish Your Body
Go to your grocery store and stock up with your favourite ingredients. Set the tone of the week ahead by planning healthy meals and drinks. A great way to do this consistently is stocking up your kitchen with snacks you can take on the go, so you don’t buy expensive and unhealthy snacks when you are in a rush. Having meals prepared ahead of time is a great way to feel less overwhelmed when it comes to food.
Tuesday: Technology Detox
Let's be honest, we all spend ridiculous amounts of time scrolling through news feeds and stalking the lives of people we don't know. Social media and the internet are dominating most of our lives. It can feel consuming. So today, put down your phone and turn off the TV. Go for a hike if you can, enjoy some time in the sun.
If you need some inspiration, here are 5 trail runs you need to explore in 2023.
Wednesday: Focus on your Wellness
#WellnessWednesdays are by far our favourite form of self care. Take a break from your screens and take a swim, go surfing with your mates, book yourself a massage, go to that yoga class you’ve been postponing. Options are endless, just do whatever feels good to you. Acknowledging this and blocking some time off your day for self care is the perfect midweek treat to recharge your energies.
Thursday: Rest Up.
Healthy sleep helps the body remain healthy and stave off diseases. Developing a simple nighttime routine for yourself is the perfect way to wind down for the evening and create a peaceful sleep environment. Today, try to have an hour without screens before bed. Do your skincare, have a tea, read and book and chill. Proper sleep will allow your body and mind to recharge, leaving you refreshed and alert when you wake up.
Friday: Get Social.
An active social life can do wonders to your mental health – it can lighten your mood and make you feel happier. Go out to that new restaurant you’ve been dying to try. Invite your friends over for a game night. Hang with your mates. Catch up with your family. Call your childhood bestie. Do the things that make you happy with those that make you the happiest.
Saturday: Move Your Body.
It’s the weekend and it’s time to celebrate your body by treating it well. Exercise creates feel-good endorphins and sometimes it only takes a little bit of movement for us to feel a little happier. Exercise can be an effective treatment for anxiety - and we all know we can do with less of.
Try doing something that involves moving your body today. Could be as simple as picking a new spot to swim, walking around the city, going to a yoga class, running or even doing an outdoor workout. Challenge yourself to move and get your blood flowing — you’ll feel great after.
Sunday: Treat Yo Self.
Treat yourself to something good today. Is it an ice cream cone? Nice coffee? A pedicure? A trip to Bunnings? Putting new sheets on the bed? Maybe get that surf poncho you’ve been wanting? Or just relaxing on the couch by yourself.
Whatever feels good to you, do it. Treating yourself is something we should do and not feel guilty about it.
Hope you love this self care challenge, practice it, tweak it, and eventually make it your own.
Feel free to come back to it and do it again and again when you need some inspiration or are looking for ways to take better care of yourself. And remember, you deserve it.
