Six Simple Ways to Practice Self-Care (Includes Chocolate!)

How is everyone doing out there? I hope you have settled into a new routine that is working well for you and your families. I definitely have, adopting a few new things and letting go of others, but I have to say, this home life kind of suits me. Today, I’m talking about self-care with seven other amazing bloggers (links at the bottom of the pa

I’m so grateful for how well my 13 year-old twin daughters are handling remote-learning middle school academics and all that goes with social distancing and sheltering in place and remaining so positive. However, as you may relate, navigating your new normal (mine includes making three meals a day, taking on the parts where school falls short, including daily P.E., keeping them from being on a device 24/7, and having VERY LITTLE “me” time), requires a lot of patience and flexibility. Practicing simple acts of self-care is paramount, especially now, so we can better care for our families and loved ones.

I’m sharing six, fairly simple ways, I’m practicing self-care and finding joy that are proving invaluable to me. Maybe a couple of them will provide some added joy for you, too.

1. daily collagen protein drink

I am always trying to drink more water (help, I love Diet Coke!) and this is a great way to do it! My mother, who has the best skin of anyone I know, introduced this to me and I love it. It can be added to any drink, or food, but I add it to water in the morning to force myself to drink a full 16 ounces. I purposely leave out the glass to keep refilling it with water throughout the day. I’m not always great at the refilling part but at least I start out the day with a healthy dose of water. Add a squeeze or two of lemon to further the health benefits.

2. Daily walk

This is a new-to-me act of self care since Covid-19. Even though I am a homebody and being home doesn’t really bother me, I am definitely missing my outings to my favorite restaurants, shops, markets and the overall energy of the city. I have found getting outside in the fresh air, seeing all the gorgeous, abundant blossoms and flowers all over the neighborhood and getting my heart rate up a bit has become a part of my routine I really look forward to. Listening to my favorite podcasts or music and having some alone time is the cherry on top!

3. fresh flowers/greenery

Basically, flowers are my love language. I purchase flowers at the market every week. I admit this is a bit of an indulgence but few things can lift my mood like fresh flowers around the house and they are abundant at the markets in California. I regularly buy them at Trader Joe’s so they are reasonably priced and generally last all week. I buy the three-stem package of hydrangeas for $5.99 for the kitchen and typically something more seasonal, usually under $10, for the living or dining rooms. I take out a stem or two for the bathrooms and then they can be enjoyed almost everywhere in my home. Instant mood booster!

4. chocolate

Need I say more? A piece (or three) of dark chocolate is always a part of my day. A perfect mid afternoon pick-me-up or a sweet finish to a meal. I typically keep chocolate in the fridge, often Dove’s Dark Chocolate with almonds. Plus, we know there are some health benefits in dark chocolate so win-win! What’s your favorite?

5. Goop glow

I don’t have great skin. I have tried pretty much everything, from prescription and over-the-counter products, to expensive and inexpensive skincare and makeup products, and nothing seems to make much of a difference. Enter GOOP GLOW. An exfoliating product where I can actually see an improvement in my skin. I started using it about eight weeks ago, three times a week and I’m hooked. It actually does what it says it will do -“helps polish away roughness, smooth away uneven texture and reveal healthy-looking complexion”. It comes in two sizes – I purchased the smallest size first, since, well, nothing really works for me. However, I just purchased the larger size and hope to continue to see promising results.

6. nightly bath with candle

I love a good bath! It is such a great way to end the day for me… a lit candle, some bubbly water and listening to music or finishing a podcast. It’s also a great time to indulge in my skincare routine and to layer on body lotion for the night. I love putting on pajamas over freshly cleansed and moisturized skin. Bonus if you brush and floss your teeth beforehand, so you can really relax, knowing that part of the routine is done!

Now, be sure to click over to read what these brilliant ladies are doing…

The Foxy Kat: Katrina is maintaining healthy locks. Without access to a salon for regular hair cuts, she has found a way to keep her hair hydrated to ward off split ends.

Sheri Silver: Sheri loves making DIY gifts to give. Read how she’s DIY-ing for herself during this time!

Bungalow Blue: Kelly is sharing her skin and beauty favorites. Read about her picks for busy moms.

Happy Happy Nester: Janine shares her hair, skin, and health regimen that has worked and made a difference.

Beautiful Living with Stefanie Wall: Stefanie is sharing how a daily walk and a piece or two of chocolate are joy boosters.

Classic Casual Home:  Mary Ann is sharing tips on hydrating your over-washed hands.

 Rough Luxe: Cindy is talking about what to do when you can’t get to your manicurist. 

Most Lovely Things:   Annie is trying something new like a simple DIY with art supplies on hand and plant propagation.