It's a lifestyle
Today's post will circle around mainly one thing, and that is self-love/self-care.
Recently I've been pondering back an forth on the "idea" of what is exactly the self-love/care system. How it looks and works different for everyone, how we incorporate it into our day to day lifestyles and how it changes us for the better.
I find it best to start off with how I perceive, and use it to my advantage.
Perhaps you have heard the familiar phrase, "Happiness is an inside job." Or "Outer things won't bring you joy, it comes from within you." These are both very true.
After hearing things such as these, I ask myself, "What makes me feel my absolute best? What can I do more of that makes me feel confidant, beautiful, exuberant and ready to tackle the day?"
What answers that follow soon after, are the indicators of what you could be doing to create your best life. Creating yourself is an endless act, that should not only be fun but a way for you to think of yourself as art. The greatest piece of art that you will ever work on, is you! And you start by taking care of yourself.
Breaking it down
My answers usually first form to waking up early, heading straight to the restroom and splashing my face with cold water. Instantly bringing me out of the remaining tired state that I was currently in. After that, I continue on with my morning facial routine and fix my hair. When I am done with this, I require a hot, freshly brewed cup of coffee, first thing in the morning. Otherwise, I wouldn't get a single thing done without that java. Breakfast is taken care of, then I find an exercise workout that is right for me. Lastly, I shower.
This, like I said, is just the usual morning routine. For the rest of the day, I make sure to do certain things that bring me joy for what I'm feeling in the mood for. Even if you have a busy work or school day, you will always find at least 5 minutes to do a form of self love/care.
Some days I rather sit and read a good book or even write one. (I do have a current book in progress that is part of "The Highlands Of Ireland Myth and Magic" It will be the second installment and I can't wait to show you loves!)
While other days, I'm ready to jump in the car and head to the beach, turn on some good music while I cook/bake, or create some type of artwork.
By evening time, I take a walk with my mom, (who is my best friend and always has been. We're pretty much the real life Gilmore Girls.) We talk about the day or whatever is on our mind and enjoy our time together.
I make sure to drink enough water to stay hydrated, (Because we all know this years summer feels especially hot, no matter where you are, for some reason.)
To end the day and unwind, I do my nightly routine with my skin care and enjoy some t.v. time after having a productive day.
After all, it's important to find balance and moderation with your life. It's just as needed to relax so you don't overwork yourself and burn out. As it's good to know when to cut relaxing time in half, so you don't fall back into lazy habits.
One of the best quotes that have helped me and continue to help is,
"Do something today, that your future self will thank you for."
And it helps me stay focused on my goals and desires that I want to achieve.
I sort of have a habit of wanting to learn so many things, because I find it either fascinating or a challenge. For example; I've mentioned that I'm an author. I have written a few novels and a couple children's books, I'm an artist and create many different kinds of art, and I enjoy photography.
Although, that's just a small portion about me... I can get a bit competitive on a chess board. I'm on my third language, (ASL, French Russian.) There was even a time when I was in ballet and hip hop. And that still only covers about half of it.
Meaning, there are SO many activities you can choose from.
What's best for YOU
The point is, I could go on about what makes me happy and feeling my best self, but the important thing is what makes YOU happy. That's what you got to do more of! And only you can find the answers that you're looking for.
Are you the kind of person that likes to go to thrift shops? Someone who sings in the shower? Do you make jokes that perhaps only you find funny but that doesn't stop you from laughing? Candle making? Ice skating? Karate classes? Nature walks? The ideas are endless. And guess what, so are you! Learn a new class, take up a hobby, wear the clothes you feel your best in, learn a new language, crank the music up so everyone can enjoy it, and dance like no one is watching! Because it doesn't matter what anyone thinks. It might sound harsh, but not friends, not family, not a lover. No. It's what you think that matters.
Find what works
Take the time to find what works best for you. Download the Spotify app and find a lifechanging podcast. There is a ton of them out there, trust me. I'll name a few below, that I found interesting or helped me.
You can also go to MasterClass.com where you can find classes that help teach you anything from fashion, cooking, sports and much more! (I'll be signing up soon. It's $15.00 a month for all classes.)
Go outside and unplug from social media. Despite what you may think, it's not good for you. In fact, if you want to take it a step further, and if you're someone who might be on it a little too much, take a full 48 hours off and you will see what a difference it makes. What, are you scared or think you can't live that long without a electronic device? All the more reason to get off it for a while. It might seem hard at first, not being able to check things and share and what not. But it will get better. There are days when I don't even turn my phone on and I feel more relaxed.
The media can be one of the most toxic things to use. Yes it has it good sides, like keeping in contact with friends and family. And having knowledge at the touch of a button. BUT it's also a place for you to see a lot of photos and lifestyles, that you start comparing yourself to. And this is not healthy. Everyone's life looks different. So please don't fall into that trap. You have a beautiful life, and you are a beautiful human being. It doesn't matter if your life is different than someone else's. Be thankful for what you have, while working on and bettering you and yours. Things will start to come to gather.
Everyone has heard, "Laughter is the best medicine," and it truly is. Find a comedy to watch, and laugh your ass off. You'll feel better. Surf the web for the best workouts, skin/hair care. Learn to invest. Read books that expand your way of thinking. Meditate. Stargaze. You get the idea. <3
Feel like you again
For when you feel your best, your most authentic self, this is when you feel happy and full of life. Before I go, I'll leave you with this:
The way you speak to yourself matters.
Write 10 things you love about yourself.
Visualization is where everything starts.
Say, "My own approval is all I need."
Pick 1 thing you would like to accomplish this month, & put your energy and focus into achieving it. You will feel accomplished after, and excited to take on another new thing.
Rockin' Podcasts on Spotify
Here are 5 podcasts that I've recently been listening to and love. Hope you do to! Have a good evening, loves. Xx. - A
The Wellness Cafe
The Bossbabe podcast
Girls That Invest
Unf*ck Your Brain
That Girl is Going Places
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