The Importance of Self-Care
Love is in the air, as it should be in February. Valentine’s Day is this month after all. But did you know:
- February also hosts No Politics Day on February 1st
- Groundhog Day on the 2nd.
- Feed the Birds Day comes next on the 3rd.
- Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day, Send a Card to a Friend Day, Superbowl Sunday, National Pizza Day, White T-shirt Day, Abraham Lincoln and George Washington Birthdays, National Margarita Day, Mardi Gras, Ash Wednesday, Be Humble Day, Walk the Dog Day, Public Sleeping Day, and No Brainer Day to name, oh, just a few.
The importance of self-care
February is anything but boring. But lost in the mix can be, well, ourselves. And let’s be real: when you pile on the traumas of the past few years—how to deal? In these stress-filled days when far too many of us have been isolated, it’s so easy to binge-watch the news and get angry at everything and everyone around us. In reality, the exact opposite needs to happen. Where does change start? With us. Always. And a little self-care is an easy place to make that start.
But why self-care? What exactly is the importance of self-care?
Stop existing and start living
You could make the argument that what I’m about to say next is obvious; or trite; or over-simplistic. And you may be right. But I’m convinced that we need to stop existing and start living. And for me personally, that begins with Health and wellness. I’m also convinced that key components of a happy life involve looking after our physical self with nutritious food choices, eight hours of sleep, and regular exercise.
Focusing on the little things in life like a daily walk, an afternoon tea, reading a good book, or drawing a hot bath boosts our mental health. And in the aggregate, they make a huge difference. If we want to age with grace, strength, and beauty, self-care needs to be incorporated into our lives to live our best lives at 50 and beyond.
Self-care tips
When we feel our best both mentally and physically, it’s easier to handle stress and spread love. And if the world ever needed love, it’s today. Here are ten easy ways to show yourself a little love.
A walk
Start with a 10-minute walk around the neighborhood. Nuthin’ fancy. Just some time to think while getting some exercise.
Social time
Our society is beginning to open back up. Schedule time with friends and family, even if it is still just a Zoom call.
Manicure/pedicure
Indulge in regular manicures, either at home or in a salon. When I head to the nail salon, it’s a little me time to be primped and pampered to relax and unwind. But I have a manicure set and nail polish at home for daily upkeep.
Play a game
Here are some games I love, you may or may not know:
- Hardback: A Scrabble-like card game for wordsmiths and lovers.
- Cards Against Humanity: A fill-in-the-blank, Madlib-style card game.
- Sagrada: A stained glass building dice game.
- Ticket to Ride: A train track-building game.
Start a side hustle
Pick up a hobby like knitting. Share your skills as a tutor. Or start a blog. (I’ve written an entire post on how to get started in the blogosphere.)
Say “no”
Sometimes saying “yes” to ourselves is saying “no” to someone else.
Light a candle
Did you know our guest editor Marlene did an entire post on National Candle Month?
Learn new makeup skills
My friend and amazing MUA JennySueMakeup offers virtual lessons.
Feeling good inside and out
As life slowly begins to return to normal, remember to put yourself first from time to time. Because what good to others can we really be if we’re not feeling right on the inside and out?
Valentine’s Gifts
Fabulous as always!!!
VERY cute outfit! Another great red polish is Essie’s Pampered Lady. And loved your baaaad joke; really made me chuckle. Thank you for keeping us focused on what will keep us healthy.
LOVE those red shiny shoes. I like the outfit with splashes of red.
thanks for great joke! and for today’s ootd – it’s so happy!
Love a pop of red!!!! Adorable outfit!
Valentine’s Day sweaters – an absolute no, you couldn’t even pay me to wear one.
My sister and provide some entertainment for ourselves by writing to each other in the style of Miss Elizabeth Bennett from Pride and Prejudice. It’s silly but you have to put some effort in to finding the right terminology and apply a bit of imagination. Cooking has become instructing Cook, yard work is now overseeing the gardener etc. And the excitement of receiving an actual letter in this digital age is surprising.
Beth, you forgot one more important event that happens in February. Black history month🖤
Thank you Greta. Thank you. As I thought the same. Yes, VERY important.
I like your new glasses. They look awesome on you.
I agree 100% regarding self care. I am just starting this practice. Exercise is key at this age. My life leaves little room for just me but, I have learned how to fit in exercise every day. If I have 5 minutes, I pick up my hand weights to work my arms, etc. I may do this sporadically several times during the day working different body parts. I was surprised at how this lifted my spirits. I have had gotten to a point of feeling weak. Time to get strong!
I always forget to put “me” on my to-do list. I am retired, so I should have more time, but I babysit our new grandson 4 days a week, so the other 3 days are “catch-up” on everything at our new home. I am able to do yoga when he naps, and we try to take a long walk every day. I want to be the best Grammy I can be, and that means staying healthy and fit.
Beth: Your words are not trite at all! I found myself almost holding my breath during the pandemic – essentially, putting my life on hold. Happily, I kicked into gear living my life in ways that make sense. Thanks for your recognition that many people are stuck on hold right now & we all need some kind words to help us add some oomph to our get-up & go!
What a timely post! For me, this pandemic magnified all aspects of my little world. What I missed mostly was contact with my family and friends. It was easy to slide into a slump and lose focus on all those little things that you so clearly laid out today. My chosen word for 2020 was intentional and this will be my intent to focus on a better me.
I love all your suggestions, from nail polish to a favorite game! Lighting a candle, brewing a favorite tea or reading a new novel. Exercise is foremost on my intent and healthy eating. One day at a time…
Love this post and the fact that you gave some practical tips on how to kick off self care. If a person hasn’t made self care a priority, the last thing they need in my opinion is somebody just telling them what to do. I enjoy this blog. Thanks for posting.
Thanks for the game ideas. I haven’t heard of any of them. I’ll be ordering 1 or 2.
Hi Beth! Love your Valentine’s outfit (and ALL of your outfits!) Do you have links to the LOVE sweater and red shoes? Thanks so much!! Diana