As you may have read in my 2018 Goals post earlier this week, an area that I’m focusing on is healthy living. With more time in my mornings and evenings, there’s no excuse to neglect taking time for myself. While working out is obviously a big part of healthy living, as is making healthy recipes, it’s also about practicing self-care.
Self-care is a millenial buzz word that gets a bit of a bad rap, but I’m all about taking time out to feel better about yourself. Whether it’s an at-home spa evening, drinking a cup of peppermint tea and lighting a few candles, or spending a leisurely afternoon at a local coffee shop reading, self-care should be a priority for everyone. Today I’m going to tell you more about the daily routine I’ve found using an acupressure mat and the Headspace app, and of course my athleisure look of the moment.
HOW TO FIND TIME
Yes, I realize as someone who doesn’t have kids or a huge house to take care of, it may seem like I have more time on my hands to practice what I’m preaching, but I’m still trying to squeeze it all in somewhere in between a full time job, a side hustle, and freelance work. So we have to realize that whether it’s a glorious few hours or just ten minutes here and there, we can all find the time. Maybe it’s waking up ten minutes earlier or forgoing a half hour of mindless TV for more intentional relaxation, it just has to be a priority. Pencil it in to your planner as you would any other appointment if that’s what it takes to hold yourself accountable!
THE HEADSPACE APP
I’ve always been into kind of hippy trippy things like meditation. Give me a Yoga Nidra class or a Moon Circle, and I’m all in. So, it’s no surprise that I’ve been all about the Headspace app. It’s been an easy way to get into meditation in small doses at home, which is exactly what I need. If I’m not in a class, I’m not going to have the attention span to sit for long, so 10 minute increments are perfect. You start with the basics and walk through how to meditate each day. Before you know it, you’ll look forward to this part of your day. Plus, the interface itself is just calming to look at.
HOW TO USE AN ACUPRESSURE MAT
As I mentioned earlier this week, I started using this acupressure mat to relieve headaches and back and neck pain that I was having due to a too soft bed and a commute that was getting to me. Not only did the acupressure mat help, but I also found it to be super relaxing and decided to incorporate my time relaxing on the acupressure mat with my meditation. It’s the best way to multi-task my self-care routine. If you’re interested in picking up an acupressure mat for yourself, you can find them on Amazon Prime for only $20.
MY ATHLEISURE LOOK
I’m absolutely hooked on Zella leggings now. They’re from Nordstrom, cost less than half what Lululemon is, and, because it’s Nordstrom, you get free shipping and free returns so you can order a bunch of pairs to find your favorite. I love the high waisted leggings, and you can often find them on sale for under $40, especially if you’re willing to look at some of the funkier pairs.
One of the advantages of high waisted leggings is that you can pair them with sports bras and crop tops without feeling totally exposed. This Racerback Yoga Bra from Coobie is one of my favorites. How fun is this hot pink space dye? And how flattering is the v-neck style with subtle ruching? I’m all about it.
WHAT ARE YOUR SELF-CARE GOALS?
So, what are your self-care goals for 2018? Are you getting into yoga? Meditating? Eating clean? I’d love to hear more about your plans for 2018. I’m always looking for more inspiration and ideas!
Love high waisted gym leggings, but I've never tried Zella ones before! Looking into them now, thanks for the recommendation.