In the midst of red heart balloons and endless rose bouquets, it can be easy to forget about one of the people who deserves the most love during this time of year - you! Whether you’re a proud mom or just all “Galentined” out, take these tips and use them to create a bit more self-care this season. This Valentine’s Day and forever, love on yourself, sis… you deserve it!
Real “Me” Time
No matter what your chosen career and/or parenting path is, chances are that you’re constantly doing for others. From long work days to holding down the house, consistently putting other people or priorities first means that you’re not taking the time you need to fully recharge. You can’t keep pouring into others without filling yourself up! Try designating a special time and place that you can take advantage of for yourself. Even if you have to start small, that extra half an hour could be the difference between losing your cool and saving grace.
Moisturize, Moisturize...then Moisturize again
Or, Moisturize, Soak, Repeat...or, Cleanse, Moisturize, Chill. Whatever you choose, take the time out to give your hair a good deep conditioning and your skin a luxurious mask. You can couple this with your newly-prioritized “me” time, or do it while you’re knocking out the laundry and cleaning the house (my personal multi-tasking hack). Everyone’s hair and skin are different, so take the time to research which treatments are best for your needs. Placing importance on taking care of YOU will make you want to pamper yourself, ASAP. Your scalp and skin will thank you!
**You’re A Gift...So Get Yourself One **
Is there something you’ve been eyeing but haven’t had the courage to purchase? What about a small item that would easily bring a smile to your face? Treating yourself doesn’t have to break the bank! Instead of waiting for so-and-so to get all the hints you’ve been dropping about your favorite products, grab one for yourself and revel in the purchase. Whether it’s a special spa day or the dope purse you’ve been wanting for like, ever, treat yourself like the gift that keeps on giving. Because you are!
Let It All Out
Have you ever had one of those weeks (or months, or years) where everything seems to just pile up? Those times where the combination of family, work, school, or just life is overwhelming you? We’ve all been overloaded at some point! The key here is to recognize when that’s happening and to let it all out. Yell into a pillow, give a good cry, or do some cardio until you’ve had enough. Whatever your healthy de-stress method is, remember to put it into play whenever you need to fully release!
Dig Deeper
Self-love and self-care have become major buzz words, but doing the work isn’t always light and airy. From generational traumas to mental health woes, getting to the nitty gritty of our wellness sometimes means uncovering issues that we’d rather abandon. Trust me when I tell you that your wellness - emotional, physical, and mental - matters. Do you have a trusted source that you can confide in? What about a professional that may be able to help you find the root of anything that’s not quite sitting right within? You don’t need an excuse to prioritize your mental and emotional wellbeing; the real reason is you!
What are some ways that you can indulge in cultivating self-love this season?
