Ways to show yourself some love this Valentine’s weekend
*Photo from The Atlantic
Try a white noise video on YouTube. Focusing on repetitive sounds will help you think more mindfully and worry less. Try these below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wzjWIxXBs_s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMOpBpryE7o
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6f0y1Iaorug
Get an oil diffuser. I am a recent essential oils convert and I love nothing more than putting in some soothing oils when I am home and taking time for myself. I got my diffuser from the link below, but you can get plenty of cheap ones online. My favorite relaxing combination is lavender and orange!
*photo curtesy of oilsandaroma.com
Turn up the heat! Wrap yourself in a cozy blanket, or even just a heating pad to really value your cozy alone time.
Look at pictures of some beautiful dogs. Here are some of my favorite Instagram accounts to follow to make your feed a more relaxing place. Also, some pictures of my own handsome boy.
https://www.instagram.com/thedogist/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/dogsofinstagram/?hl=en
Call your mom! Enough said!
Write yourself some positive affirmations. I know, it sounds a little silly, but reminding yourself what you value most about who you are is a good way to think bigger picture when things get overwhelming. I personally love to put a cheery sticky note on my bathroom mirror during stressful times.
*photo from petaramia.com
Get crafty! I am sure you have heard all about the benefits of adult coloring. I’ve linked some of my favorite adult coloring books below. If coloring isn’t your speed, I’ve recently gotten into cross-stitching as a good way to do a mindless activity at the end of the night that isn’t on your phone!
Do a couple of quick stretches! I love looking up some quick videos and walking myself through a couple of yoga poses to engage my body. Check out some of the ones below!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CTsdbf81W8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xP5j5U-h-jM
Take a little bit of time to organize your planner. Even just a simple to do list or a skim of what needs to get done in the next week will make you feel a little more on top of things.
*photo from penandanotebook.tumblr.stfi.re
Make your own contingency plan. This was the biggest self-care tip I’ve ever been given. Whatever you find works best for you out of this list, write down and keep in mind when you feel lost. It is easy to forget what helps relax us when we are in the thick of it, and I’ve found knowing I have a calming routine planned helps me be more mindful and relaxed.
“My favorite way to show myself some love is to curl up in a cozy blanket, with my pj’s on, cuddle my cat, and throw on my favorite movie. I love having time yo myself where I can think and be creative, without the stressers that come with everyday life. Taking time for yourself, wiht only yourself, is so important!” -Madison Freeman, third-year
Stay happy, healthy and grounded!