Perhaps one of the biggest buzz words of 2020 would have to be “self-care”. It is not unwarranted. You work hard and taking time for yourself and your well-being often takes a back seat. As we continue forward through this pandemic, the need for “self-care” becomes heightened. You are expected to not only continue business as usual but with the additional stressors of racial unrest, economic despair, impending health concerns and rethinking of productivity across all sectors. Now, maybe even more than ever, is when we should indulge in some self-care and give ourselves a much needed break.
There is a sentiment that you are easily replaceable at your job if something unfortunate were to happen to you, so why not make the most of your well-being now? I know that I could work on this myself as I set high expectations for myself and the job of a teacher is never truly done. However, I am realizing the value of taking some time for myself. Below are some ideas to consider for your own self-care and some that have definitely helped me:
- Play video games! I have likely stated this before but video games are therapeutic! Immersing yourself into a fictional world and completing tasks can do wonders. One game in particular that has been my go-to recently is Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Though it is a simple game, the daily tasks and adventures are calming. The objective is building your island and interacting with local villagers so you can create your own mini paradise. I highly recommend especially if you are not a total gamer as the controls and maneuvering are simple enough that anyone can enjoy!
- Bake! As you may have seen in previous posts, I love trying out new desserts to expand my repertoire. Creating something delicious and one others can enjoy is such a sweet hobby! My latest creations were pumpkin cheesecake, oreo cheesecake and carrot cake for our family’s most recent gathering. There are tons of recipes out there and you can easily search for easier recipes if you are a novice, so you do not necessarily have to be super skilled in the kitchen either.
- Paint! Painting is not simply for children to get their hands messy but adults can certainly enjoy as well. You can find some inexpensive materials on Amazon or your local craft store and paint to your heart’s content. My husband gifted me an easel set and painting supplies one Christmas and it was a pleasure creating something. If you are not as skilled artistically, you can turn it into abstract art and still be satisfied.
- Build a model kit! If you are into anime, manga or nostalgic pieces of sorts, check out if there are model kits you can make. My husband got me into this hobby and it is such a fun, unique way to pass time. I tend to go for cutesy pieces like the cuter Pokemon and Gundam pieces but there is literally something for everyone to get into. You can look into model trains and planes as well just to give it a try!
- Check out new shows or movies! Something as simple as turning on your preferred streaming service whether it be Netflix, Hulu or whatever can prove to be a fun, bingeworthy time! Discover something old or new! I have recently gotten into the anime series One Piece and am enjoying the adventure. With so many options to stream, there is bound to be something worthwhile to watch so why not grab a bowl of popcorn, some sodas and enjoy!
As you can see, finding some self-care options can largely depend on your own tastes or something you have wanted to try out but did not think to try out as much. So why not, check out something now? If you can spend at least 30 minutes daily (ideally, more) devoted to something you like or wanted to try, your body will thank you in the long run. Life really is too short not to enjoy it and to always work. Try something new today or even one of the ideas listed above. Self-care is not selfish, it is necessary.
You look good dear.
https://www.kitchenmitts.com
Well that is darn good and I love that first photo with fan club!
kitchenmitts – https://www.kitchenmitts.com
I want to live a more balanced life for 2021 and do all the little things that bring me joy, such as baking, swimming, and painting.
I would love to learn how to swim! That seems like a great physical activity and ideal for self-care as well!
Adore all ideas. Checking out new shows and movies will be something I’ll do these few days.
If you’re looking for something new to binge, might I suggest Bridgerton! Lovely show and definitely recommend!
Baking is one of my go-to self-care rituals. I love making something from scratch and the end product is always so rewarding!
I definitely agree!
Excellent ideas! My favorite was baking. It’s very nice to try a new recipe and the try it to see if you want to make it again or not. It’s also a great activity to do with your kids in winter.
It is such a wholesome activity! Baking is definitely one of my faves as well!
I couldn’t agree more! I try and do these things when I need a good ‘reset’ too!
As you should! What would be your favorite activity when you need to reset?
Self care has always been the interesting topic for me and people really underestimate it. I usually write it on this topic.
Yes, we need those constant reminders to ensure we are healthy in all aspects. The more people who write and acknowledge this, the better!
I’ve been really involved in self-care over the last few years and LOVE what it has done for me.
There are so many benefits! It cannot be stated enough!
People really do underestimate self care.
I totally agree!