5 Ways to Fit Self Care … 

Into Your Busy Day!

1. Mindful Breathing!

Find time in your day to take 3 mindful breaths- to do this; breath in slow and deep, count to 10 as your breath in and then back down from 10-1 on your breath out.

2. One Mindful meal a day.

It is so important to nourish your body and for those of us who are constantly on the go, it can be difficult to really focus on what we are eating. So, once a day avoid a quick protein bar or bag of chips and take  ½ an hour to sit down and focus on your meal.

3. One Joyful activity during the day.

Take a half an hour for you!! What do you like to do? Read your favorite blog, catch up on the news, take a walk, enjoy a coffee or cup of tea, chat with a friend….the choice is yours, but no matter what you choose…make it about yourself.

4. One “feel good” for yourself.

While some of us may enjoy it more than others, it is not selfish to admit that feeling good about ourselves physically, makes us feel good about ourselves emotionally. Take some time out of your busy day to focus on 1 physical “feel good”. For example, put on makeup, give yourself a pedicure, head to the gym, meditate, trim your beard or simply change the blade in your razor for that smooth shave, take a bath, get a massage…the choice is yours!

5. One Conscious inner reflection

Inner reflection is a very important part of self-care because it keeps you present and in the moment, allowing you to focus better and see the world a little clearer. Practice inner reflection through meditation, yoga, finding an inspirational daily quote, reading your bible or another spiritual and meaningful book for you…the goal here is to stay in the moment, bring yourself back to your center when your busy day is making it easy for your thoughts and emotions to run away from you.

By Crystal O’Connell, M.S, MFT Associate
Past Associate at Therapy2Thrive, a family counseling center in Pleasanton