8 Ways to Show Yourself Some Kindness
In difficult times, we need to ensure that we are showing kindness to everyone, but especially ourselves. Here are seven simple ways that you can take care of your number one: YOU!
ENJOY THE SUNSHINE
Get outside & feel the sun on your skin! Levels of serotonin (the happiness hormone) have been proven to be higher on sunny days. Moderate sun exposure also enhances the immune system, as it increases white blood cells that play a key role in fighting diseases and defending the body against infection. Whether you talk a morning walk, an afternoon snooze or an evening stroll, make sure to get some sunshine to boost your mood and up your levels of Vitamin D.
FIND YOUR CALM, THEN CARRY ON
Take time once an hour, especially while working, to take a few deep breaths. It's easy to get caught up in the stress of your job, the news, or household chores, and we need to take the time to slow down, breathe deeply and remember that we can and will carry on. Set hourly timers on your phone, put sticky notes around the house, or use an app such as the Breathe app to remind yourself to find your calm before you get back to work.
TURN YOUR PHONE OFF
Set aside some time away from social media and the news cycle each day. You have control over the content you expose yourself to, and it's best to take breaks from constant updates. Take this time to slow down to read a book, enjoy a coloring exercise, or meditate.
FIND THE GOOD NEWS
There are many awesome sources that are spreading good news in this time of overwhelmingly negative articles. It's important to balance what you read and remember that while we are apart, many are still finding ways to come together and do good. Sources like The Week in Good News, Some Good News with John Krasinski, or the Good News Movement on Instagram will bring a smile to your face.
ENJOY SOME ME TIME
Take some time to do whatever makes you feel the most you! We'd suggest enjoying some wine or hot tea, chocolates, your favorite book, and a nice soak in the tub with relaxing essential oils. Setting some time aside to recharge will help you tackle the day to day with a better attitude.
GET A GOOD NIGHT'S REST
It's easy to get caught up in scrolling or your latest netflix binge and forget to go to bed at a reasonable time, but skimping on sleep can have negative effects on your health. Treating your sleep schedule with intention is important, as it affects almost all other aspects of your day. A good night's sleep will ensure that you are more productive, better able to concentrate, more likely to eat well and exercise, and have a stronger immune system.
DO GOOD FOR OTHERS
Find ways to do good for others, whether it's the elders in your community, your local independently-owned businesses, your neighbors, or even those that you are living with. Spreading kindness and joy (in a safe way) will give you a sense of purpose in this time of uncertainty. It's essential to stay connected to your local community - even if it's just online - as it will positively impact not only yourself but also those around you who may be feeling lonely and isolated. Several ideas you can consider are making homemade masks for others, finding reputable charities to donate to (if you have the resources), or supporting local independent businesses who are in crisis with your purchases.
BRING YOURSELF SOME FLOWERS
Flowers are a wonderful way to brighten your day, as they bring some much needed color to the rooms that you're spending all your time in. Pick some up on your essential grocery run, support a local florist working from home, or gather some new pieces from our gorgeous Botanica Collection! Our new floral activewear will bring you a breath of fresh air and help to liven up your at-home look.
If you liked this blog, check out our other blogs like " Resources for the Foodie", " Resources to Keep Rising Together", or "Resources for Your Well-Being", and "Peace of Mind: Q&A with Tiffany Cruikshank."
