Self-Care Practices + Essentials

“I hope you find the kind of happiness that exists on your own terms. I hope you truly take the time to figure out what moves you, what encourages your soul, what you deeply crave from life, and I hope you have the courage to chase that. I hope you have the courage to believe that you are deserving of everything you desire, that you are capable and worthy of curating the kind of life for yourself that sparks something within you. You have a fire inside of you – I hope you never let convenience, or comfort or the easiness of standing still put it out. I hope you show the world what you can do with all of the passion inside you.” – Bianca Sparacino

Hi lovelies!

I know it’s been a while since I last posted, but I am back and more ready than ever to write, express myself, and dedicate my time to growing my blog.

Last school year, I realized stress was the root to most of my bad days. Whenever I was feeling anxious or antisocial, it could always be linked to the stress I placed upon myself. Whether it was academic stress or pressures to have fun and make the most of my time in college, I always felt like I had a billion weights tying me down, which ultimately led me to feel exhausted and mentally drained majority of the time.

But over summer, I had a ridiculous amount of free time. It was quite overwhelming, having all of these empty days and barely any deadlines to meet. I did not know what to do with myself. I spent those days feeling guilty for having so many days to relax and read books or watch movies or whatever else I wanted to do.

However, those days did teach me ways to cope with my stress and improve my overall well-being. I discovered what works for me, found passion in different hobbies, and practiced numerous forms of wellness and self-care.

As I ease into 2018, my goal is to be a bit selfish and put myself first more. Often, I cave into the feelings of FOMO (fear of missing out) and neglect my own self’s needs. My resolution last year, was to become more social and say yes to new people, adventures, and risks. I now know that it is the perfect time to start cultivating the soul. To grow the mind through meditation and books, to feel content in your own personal company, and learn to do what feels good – even if it means skipping a party on a Friday night to detox yourself from social toxins.

It’s easy to say you are going to focus on your self worth, but it’s much harder to actually go through with it, which is why I’m starting easy with a list of simple self-care practices and essentials to get you started. Now, turn your cell phone on mute, put on a good playlist and light your candle; it’s time to make our well-being our top priority.

Practicing Self-Care

Simple acts of kindness for your soul, to add to your everyday routine.

• Meditate

Trust me, it works. It’s quick, easy, and you don’t even have to leave your bedroom. I usually meditate after a long and stressful day, using the Headspace app. Meditation is helpful since it calms your entire body down, from your mind all the way down to your toes. If you don’t want to use the app, you can turn some soothing music on (I recommend any white noise playlists or ocean sounds!), close your eyes, and just focus on the sound and feeling of your breath. As you become consistent with your meditation practice, you should find your self repeating personal mantras, becoming more in tune with your soul and mind, and carrying your positive thoughts into your everyday routine.

• Write

Vent and document your troubles, until they don’t feel important anymore. Scribble thoughts about the dumb boy you met at a party, complain about the rude barista who messed up your order, the feeling in your chest when you failed that test, etc. Express your frustrations and rid them all out of your system. Then turn it into art. As said by writer Lang Leav, “I wish I could put a pen in your hand and gently remind you how the world has given you poetry and now you must give it back”.

• Yoga

Yoga focuses on breathing, movement, flexibility, and stability. It’s a great way to better your body, while cleansing your mind of any negative or stressful thoughts. It’s also a productive way to distract yourself. When I’m stressed at home, I grab a yoga mat and turn on a Yoga With Adriene video. Her videos are easy to follow and she always has the best commentary!

• Read

Who reads anymore? Um, me and now you. Reading is so very therapeutic and highly underrated. Sure, you can sit on the couch and watch a movie, but reading completely stimulates the mind and requires your time and focus.

If you’re looking for a book to read, I recommend Eat Pray Love (known for being the self-care bible), Call Me by Your Name (Aciman’s writing is the prettiest thing you’ll ever read) and You Are a Badass (a self-help book filled with inspiring advice guaranteed to empower you).

Essentials

Some products to help you feel adored, pampered, and relaxed.

• Face Masks

You’re not truly pampering yourself without a face mask on.

If you’re into flowers and looking for something light/for everyday use, invest in the Fresh Rose Face Mask

If you’re in search for a dewy sun kissed feeling in the form of a peel off mask, use any of the masks by Que Bella Beauty

If you want to clear your pores and strengthen your skin, test out Origin’s Charcoal Mask

If you want a full, heavy facial and dramatic results, indulge in a Glamglow Mask

• Mario Badescu Rose Spray

Trust the reviews, this spray is amazing. You can use it as a toner, a primer, a finishing spray, or simply spritz it throughout the day for a refreshing and great smelling glow.

• Flowers

Cliche, I know, but they make all the difference. Decorate your space with flowers and you’ll feel inspired every time you look at them. You can buy them for yourself and use their beauty as a reminder that you are full of self-love and bright energy, or you can buy them for others to express your gratitude and improve their mood as well. Flowers are a win for everyone.

xoxo,

Eliz