Tempe, AZ Family Photographer: Self Care For the Worn Out Woman
We live in a culture of busy-ness, of digital connectedness, and ever increasing anxiety. Shocking isn’t it?! I know this comes as no surprise to any of you, we are all feeling the heavy weight of trying to have it all and do it all, while making it look easy and keeping it beautiful. It’s all so very EXHAUSTING! And if we’re not mindful of our bodies, minds and souls we will burn out. So today I want to talk about self care for all of us worn out women (because I’m talking to myself here too).
“But I don’t have disposable income to spend on spa days and makeovers Shannon!!”
Well neither do I so let’s talk about all of the things we do have access to that can bring our bodies and minds the rest and healing that it needs.
Go for a walk / hike: The point is GET OUTSIDE! The act of moving our bodies creates endorphins and endorphins make us happier. Breath in that fresh air. Take the dog, or don’t.
Listen to a podcast: There are so many incredible podcasts out there for every topic imaginable. If you can think it, it’s being talked about. And, here’s a two for one for you, listen to that podcast while going for a walk! BOOM!
Take a bath: Add some bath salts, a bath bomb, bubbles…while the water soothes your body the fragrance will literally deescalate your emotions and anxiety. So get soaking!
4. Journal: Treat yourself to something of beauty to write in and start a practice of journaling your thoughts, your worries, your prayers. Just the act of committing things to paper is healing.
5. Read (or listen to) a Book: I love to read, but it’s been so difficult to find time to sit with book in hand and get through it. Yet, it is still what I prefer, so if you can do it! But I recently found audiobooks (I know, I’m so late to the game) and now even doing my dishes is enjoyable.
6. Listen to Music: Explore a new genre, turn on a trusted oldie, music can transport us out of whatever mental state we’re in to a better one.
7. Go for a drive: My goodness we live in a beautiful state…get out there and see it.
8. Do a digital detox: Even for just a day this can do wonders. What about longer?
9. Take a Nap
10. Declutter or organize something while listening to a podcast or music or a book: I love organization and simplifying things!
11. Diffuse some essential oils: lavender, orange, lemon, and peppermint are all known to boost moods
12. Learn something new: never stop learning!
13. Buy yourself some flowers: There’s something about spreading beauty around
14. Practice mindfulness: What the what? I know, but practicing being present in the moment is much harder than you think. What do you see, taste, hear, smell and feel now.
15. Take some pictures: No this isn’t a shameless plug for my family photography business (or is it?). But one of my favorite ways to care for myself is to get out into nature and observe all the little things around me. Snap a picture of something beautiful!
16. Stretch: Get some blood flowing to those muscles, so limber up ladies!
17. Drink coffee or tea: Splurge on that herbal blend or treat yourself to that fancy coldbrew. Or maybe make it yourself and sit down to enjoy it rather than multitask a hundred other things.
18. Bake or Cook
19. Get your nails done: OMG just having someone else touch my hands and feet is like a little slice of heaven.
20. Meditate: For some of you this will be on God’s word. For others of you it will look different. But taking time to focus not on ourselves is the best self care we can have.
Obviously this list isn’t exhaustive, but it’s a start to help you on your way. We are finite beings, and if we don’t take the time to care for ourselves or even find what makes us feel refreshed then we will burn out. So to all you mamas and ladies who are feeling the weight of this world on your shoulders, I feel you and I see you.
All My Love,
