Over the past year one coping strategy that I have come to HEAVILY relay on is self-care. Whether I’m just a little over-tired because I’ve been working hard on school assignments all week, or on the other extreme… if I am feeling like:

I now know that everyday, regardless of what is going on in my life, I need to set aside time for myself and do something that simply makes me, and me alone, happier and healthier.

Here are a few suggestions for self care that I have found to work well:

It’s a little treat for your eyes only 😉 Credit for this suggestion goes to the lovely MMC and my sissy.

Occasionally I’ll look at photos my mom has sent me of our dogs all dressed up…they can always make me smile. Also I’d highly recommend taking a mindful walk with your dogs if you have them. This is a great way to clear your head.

Sunshine cures all. Fact. According to the rules of life written by Mamma Maxwell and Mamma Quigs!

Have a mini dance party alone. Just do it. You know you want to 😉

Water, personally, has the ultimate calming effect. Whether it be jumping in the ocean or taking a hot shower I always feel better after either.

A good yoga class can refocus and center you.

This is my go-to method for self care. Pampering myself with a manicure and a cup of coffee. So simple, but it always brightens my day.

Self care is crucial for everyone. There are good, and bad, parts to everyday so why not try to make the good outweigh the bad? I know it’s hard for most of us to set aside time for ourselves and focus purely on our mental health, but it is has to be done. Everyone around you, but most importantly you yourself, will benefit from the small segment of your day that you take to better yourself.