Being a grown-up is hard work, whether you’re a parent or not.
Taking breaks is important for our mental and physical well-being, so finding small ways to practice self-care is crucial to living our best lives. Thankfully, there are plenty of options when it comes to boosting our mood and energy levels in just a few moments!
1. Take a few deep breaths.
Breath is life, but when we’re feeling anxious, it’s hard to remember to keep things slow and even. Try counting to three on every inhale and exhale, and concentrate on bringing nourishing oxygen in through your nose and out through your mouth. After a few deep breaths, you should feel calmer and more centered.
2. Pop a multivitamin.
When we’re busy, we don’t always eat right. Skipping meals and resorting to less healthy options drains the body of its vital nutrients. Taking a daily multivitamin is an easy way to regain your balance and feel better.
3. Have a healthy snack.
Eating healthy foods is a gift you give yourself! Instead of reaching for a candy bar next time you’re in a rush and need a snack, grab a piece of fruit instead. You’ll feel good about making the choice, and your body will thank you for it!
4. Indulge in a decadent shower product.
You have to take showers, so why not make the experience as luxurious as possible? Picking a delicious-smelling body wash or conditioner will give you a little something to look forward to during even the most mundane part of your day.
5. Light a nice candle.
It takes two seconds to light a candle, but the warm glow and soothing aroma is an instant mood-booster. It’s a visual signal to your brain to slow down and enjoy a few seconds or minutes of peace!
6. Get some vitamin D.
Spending time outside is good for our bodies and our souls. Slather on some sunblock and enjoy some much-needed sunshine. While you’re at it, breathe in the fresh air, and admire the beauty of nature that’s all around you.
7. Clean out a junk drawer.
It can be overwhelming to think of all the projects waiting for us in our closets and drawers. Instead of trying to tackle them all at once, pick a small space to organize, like a junk drawer, and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done. The other drawers may still need cleaning tomorrow, but they can wait!
8. Spend some time prepping meals.
If you can carve out a few minutes a day to prepare meals in advance, it takes a lot of pressure off future you. Try cooking a family pack of chicken all at once so you can dole it out throughout the week, or whip up a batch of eggs baked in muffin tins and freeze them for easy weekday breakfasts.
9. Call or text a friend.
Just a few moments of connection let us know we’re not alone! Remember, reaching out to a friend doesn’t just help you; it helps them as well.
10. Hug it out.
A quick hug reduces stress not just in the hugger, but in the “huggee,” too! There are even heart health benefits associated with hugs, so they really are good for you!
Remember, we can’t help others unless we take care of ourselves first. Sometimes it just takes a minute or two to practice the self-love we all need every day.
Share this story with a busy friend who could use these tips.
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.