Need help to take better care of yourself? Try something from this list this week and read about the tips that help me.

1. Practice Mindfulness or Meditation Spend a few minutes each day focusing on your breath or engaging in guided meditation to reduce stress and improve clarity. This is number one for a lot of people but not really my thing, but never underestimate the power of a deep exhale.
   

2. Engage in Physical Activity Whether it’s yoga, walking, dancing, or hitting the gym, regular exercise boosts your mood and energy levels. This one I believe in and even better do it with a friend.
   

3. Establish a Sleep Routine Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Create a calming bedtime routine to help you unwind. I'm constantly trying to accomplish this one.
   

4. Enjoy Nature Spend time outdoors, whether it’s a walk in the park, hiking, or simply sitting in your garden. Nature has a calming effect on the mind. I will never find hiking calming and my friends have now stopped asking me (my complaining about the incline, dirt and general discomfort finally got to them)
   

5. Stay Hydrated Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps maintain energy levels and overall health. I'm currently working on this one! I have a wonderful mother who whenever i'm not feeling well will ask if i've been drinking water, aparently the right amount of hydration can heal all, i'll report back about if that's true.

   
   

6. Nourish Your Body Prepare balanced meals rich in nutrients. Cooking can be a creative outlet, and eating well supports your physical and mental well-being. I love cooking but I also know the pain of deciding what to cook can be an insurmountable task, especially when you're stressed about your work. I keep a note on my phone with meals that I like and of course save a heap of recipes I see on Instagram, when I lack inspiration I look at those. Which is why this week i'll be having Quinoi Gran Bowls for lunch. Recipe https://britacooks.com/harvest-quinoa-grain-bowl

   
   

7. Set Boundaries Learn to say no and establish limits on your time and energy. Protecting your personal space is crucial for self-care. I'm the biggest fan of saying no! Want to go on a hike? (the answer to this should be clear) No! Want to go dancing after dinner? No! Want to talk to anyone after 9pm? I'd rather not! It can feel very foreign when you start saying no to things you don't want to do, but when you fill that time with things that fill your soul (hello embroidery and Real Housewives) you wont regret it.
   

8. Engage in Hobbies Dedicate time to activities you love, whether it’s painting, writing, gardening, or crafting. Hobbies can be a great way to express yourself and relieve stress. As you know I love a new hobby but finding time isn't always easy, especially if you're not setting boundaries on your time. It doesn't have to be long but even 30 minutes in the week to focus on an activity that you love (not work related) can renew your spirit.
   

9. Connect with Loved Ones Spend quality time with family and friends. Social connections are vital for emotional well-being. Even better match up one of the other tips and do it with friends or family. Take a gym class together, go for a walk with a friend, take an art class with your mum. Two birds one stone! (wow that has a different feeling when you re read it, but two soul filling activites at the same time really doesn't have the same ring to it)
   

10. Limit Screen Time Take breaks from screens, especially social media. Use this time to engage in offline activities that bring you joy. We all know this to be true! If you're like me and can't cope well with silence (being alone... great! Silence..... unbareable) try laying on your bed while listening to a few chapters of an audio book, or if you prefer an actual page turner, find yourself a playlist that you can have on in the background.

    Here's the "Calming Reading" playlist I found on Spotify that is now my go to for any relaxation needs https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7uUZnoH4YytuTYva20onTm?si=KLVLONY3QNicWSPLP4kiKQ&pi=a-f5inBFguQHOa&nd=1&dlsi=9983b8929a8f498a

    
    

11. Practice Gratitude Keep a gratitude journal and jot down things you’re thankful for each day. This practice can shift your mindset to a more positive outlook. If writing it in a journal isn't for you, just take a moment to take note of three things you're grateful for today.
    

12. Take Regular Breaks Throughout your day, step away from work or responsibilities to recharge. Short breaks can improve focus and productivity. Make sure you keep to the time you've allotted! I've been known to schedule a mid morning coffee break with a friend and ended up at David Jones before returning home 4 hours later then I planned.
    

13. Pamper Yourself Treat yourself to a relaxing bath, a spa day at home, or a favorite meal. Little indulgences can lift your spirits. I like to indulge in a facial every 6-8 weeks, It always seems to coe just when I need an excuse to switch off for an hour.
    

14. Learn Something New Take up a new skill or hobby. Engaging your mind in new challenges can boost your confidence and creativity. 2024 was my year of hobbies! I'm dabbling in Embroidery, Watercolour Painting (with a little mixed media thrown in there to be fancy) and can now hem my own pants with my beginner sewing machine, as long they're black and a relatively straight leg. Who knows what you'll be able to do in 12 months by trying something new.
    

15. Seek Support If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider talking to a professional, a therapist or counselor. Professional support can provide valuable tools and perspectives. If that isn't within your means do you have a friend who you can be open with?
    

16. Create a Comfortable Environment Organise and declutter your space. A clean, inviting environment can help you feel more relaxed and focused. I know i've hit my high point of stressed AF when i'm deep cleaning my apartment (but seriously who knew you could keep so much junk in a small space?)
    

17. Listen to Music or Podcasts Enjoying your favorite tunes or engaging podcasts can uplift your mood and provide inspiration. As I said before me and silence aren't friends! I have podcasts to inspire me, podcasts to entertain, those to educate (mostly about crimes), and an ever growing playlist of my favourite songs on Spotify that never disappoints!
    

18. Practice Deep Breathing Incorporate deep breathing exercises into your routine to help manage stress and anxiety. I've said it before (see point one) but a deep exhale can cure almost anything, and if the first one doesn't work keep going until you feel better

I hope there is one tip there that you haven't tried before, or maybe reading about the ones that I struggle with have made you feel less alone on the journey to be a perfect relaxed human. Either way find the thing that gives you some reprieve from the daily stresses of small business and give yourself permission to take the time that you need for them.