Self-Care for the Slightly Lazy: Because Bubble Baths Take Effort
If you are a lazy self-care enthusiast, this episode is for you. We’re going to dive into the world of self-care in a way that's realistic, manageable, and totally tailored to our 'I can't be bothered with elaborate routines' mindset. Self-care is all about finding what works for you, so let's explore some practical and accessible strategies that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated without breaking a sweat.
Let's kick things off with a bit of real talk - self-care isn't just about luxurious spa days or expensive wellness retreats. It's about the small, everyday actions that contribute to your overall well-being. As someone who values simplicity and efficiency, I've discovered a few self-care hacks that are perfect for the slightly lazy soul.
So, first, we’re going to talk about setting realistic self-care goals. It's easy to get caught up in the idea of elaborate self-care routines, but simplicity is key for the slightly lazy self-care enthusiast:
Start small: Choose one self-care activity to focus on each day. It could be drinking a glass of water as soon as you wake up, stretching for five minutes before bed, or journaling for a few minutes. I’ll share more ideas in a few moments.
Be consistent: Consistency is more important than intensity. Aim to incorporate your chosen self-care activity into your daily routine, even if it's just for a few minutes. This does not need to be all or nothing. Walking for 5 minutes instead of 50 is better than not walking at all. Build consistency by pairing self-care with something you already do. Call a friend while you walk. Drink a glass of water while you’re packing your lunch.
Adjust as needed: If a particular self-care practice doesn't resonate with you or feels like too much effort, don't be afraid to switch it up. The goal is to find what works best for you. It’s going to take some practice, but I want to reinforce that if it feels forced or makes you feel bad about yourself, then it’s not serving its purpose. You don’t have to mediate in the traditional way. Experiment and have fun treating yourself with kindness.
Quality rest is the foundation of self-care; use these tips to help you get good sleep:
Create a Cozy Bedtime Ritual: Picture this - a warm cup of herbal tea, a good book, and a cozy blanket. That's my idea of a perfect bedtime ritual. Find activities that help you unwind and signal to your body that it's time to relax. For me, it's all about creating a peaceful environment in my bedroom and avoiding screen time before bed.
Stick to a Sleep Schedule: I know, I know, consistency can be a challenge, especially on weekends. But trust me, maintaining a regular sleep schedule can work wonders for your energy levels and overall well-being. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day to establish a healthy sleep routine.
Mindful Tech Use: Let's talk about our love-hate relationship with technology. While our devices offer endless entertainment and connectivity, they can also disrupt our sleep patterns. I've started setting boundaries around screen time, especially before bed. It's all about finding a balance that works for you.
If you’re lazy like me, then we have to embrace mini moments of self-care. These are tiny pockets of time throughout your day where you can sneak in a bit of relaxation or rejuvenation. For example:
Take three deep breaths: Close your eyes, inhale deeply for a count of four, hold for four, exhale for four, and repeat three times. It's a quick way to reset and calm your mind. This is great to do if you’re waiting for something to load instead of trying to multitask. Next time you’re waiting for a YouTube video to upload or a report to run, instead of jumping to another tab or checking your email, take a few deep breaths.
Enjoy a favorite snack: Whether it's a piece of dark chocolate, a handful of nuts, or a juicy fruit, treat yourself to a mini snack break that brings a smile to your face. You can either keep this at your desk so it’s fast, or you can set up a little snack drawer in your kitchen so you have to stand up and get it. Personally, if I go to the kitchen, I tend to get sucked into different tasks and get easily distracted, so I like to have a few things at my desk.
Take a short walk: Step outside for a few minutes, feel the sun on your skin and breathe in some fresh air. Even a brief walk can boost your mood and energy levels. There is always time for this. It’s weird. But if you think there isn’t, walking is a great activity to pair with something else. Can you walk to do an errand instead of driving, call a friend or family member, walk your dog, drink a protein shake for lunch while you walk, take a meeting outside…get creative?
In conclusion, self-care doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. By incorporating these simple yet impactful practices into your daily routine, you can prioritize your well-being and cultivate a healthier, happier life.
Remember, self-care is personal. It's about finding what resonates with you and making it a priority. So, here's to self-care for the slightly lazy - because taking care of yourself should be effortless and enjoyable.
