This second lockdown is no doubt hard for everyone. The tragedy surrounding us (on top of the days getting colder and shorter) has made it more important to keep checking up on ourselves, and others, as to how we’re all doing. I’ve been keeping a self-care to-do list, writing down a couple of targets each day to keep me going. Here are some of the reoccurring items on my list to possibly give you some inspiration.
Read
This one is on my list every day! I’ve always loved reading. In the last few years, however, I’ve become slightly lazy, and my attention span has decreased dramatically (I blame social media!). So, over lockdown I set myself a target to read something – even if it’s just one page – a day. Reading provides a form of escapism, and I find that once I got past the initial few pages, I was fully invested. Have a look online for books that you think you would enjoy – fiction, self-help books, biographies, anything. It’s a great way to spend some time off of your phone whilst also learning something new.
Take a bath
Running a bubble bath is my go-to after a bad day. It’s a great way to destress and is actually an ideal place to read. Personally, I pull out all the stops and use a bath bomb, light a candle and make myself a nice drink, so it’s a thoroughly indulgent experience. An inexpensive way to treat yourself! I always get out feeling clean, both physically and mentally, so I definitely recommend trying this if you usually just dash in and out of the shower!
Chocolate!
Well, it doesn’t have to be chocolate but letting yourself have a tasty treat is a delicious form of self-care. As someone who has had a negative relationship with food in the past, I know that it can be hard to justify sweet treats, especially if you’re trying to be healthy. However, it is so important to remember that your self-worth has no correlation with your appearance. Besides, this year has been so challenging, and that’s enough justification for a few (or bag) of chocolate buttons.
Talk to your friends
I’ve seen my friends twice since March. It can be incredibly isolating, being unable to socialise. As a result, I know that I have significantly lost my social skills. However, even if you can’t meet up, make sure you keep in touch. Text, phone, arrange Zoom calls. Keep socialising the best you can. My friends and I enjoy hosting quizzes on Zoom – it’s a great laugh, and also a genuinely enjoyable activity whether you’re making or hosting the quiz or simply participating. So even if like me, it feels hard to socially put yourself out there, strike up a conversation.
Reinvent your space
This is a small one, but it can be mentally beneficial to recreate the space around you (especially if you’re not going out to work). Simple things like swapping the prints on your wall or rearranging your shelves keeps your environment fresh. Also, it’s worth mentioning that a clean space can equal a clean mind, so tidy your space up!
So, there are the main items on my self-care list. Everyone is different, so don’t worry if your self-care looks completely different to mine. Whatever it is, it’s so important, and just remember: you’ll be okay!