As a fan of Parks and Rec, one of my favorite recurring bits is when Tom and Donna have ‘Treat Yo Self’ Day. It’s basically an excuse to pamper oneself and why shouldn’t you? You’re amazing. Here are some of my favorite ways to treat myself when life gets a little chaotic and I need a break.
1. Read a good book
Some of my recent favorites: Sourdough by Robin Sloan, Fun Home: a family tragicomic by Alison Bechdel, and NW by Zadie Smith.
2. Exercise
When I’m stressed, I don’t make going to the gym a priority. But, I’ve actually found that going is a great way to unwind. So not only are you treating yourself, you’re also taking care of your body!
3. Go for a walk
I find myself looking at screens for the majority of the day. Sometimes it’s nice to just take a break from electronics and enjoy the world around me.
4. Catch up on your favorite show
Every week I make sure to watch Grey’s Anatomy. It’s one of my favorite shows and it guarantees that I have one 40-ish minute break to just sit back and relax. Although, I’m never fully relaxed because Shonda Rhimes loves to keep me on the edge of my seat.
5. Hang out with friends
Sometimes I can get caught up in the amount of work I have and I end up sequestered in my room. It’s nice to take a break from that and hang out with my friends, even if it just talking in one of our kitchens.
6. Take a long shower
I love taking a nice, long, hot shower at the end of the day. It’s a great way to treat myself without costing anything (cause I don’t pay a water bill yet)
7. Blast some music
Put on the music of your favorite artist and just sing along. My go to is John Mayer.
8. Eat a good meal
My mom always tells me to eat a good meal. Whether I’m stressed or traveling to a new city, this advice applies. I find that a delicious meal just makes me feel great and it’s one that I constantly listen to.