Self-care is about putting yourself first without feeling guilty. It is a moment for you to pick up your crown again during hard days. You shouldn’t feel guilty for having personal boundaries, you should appreciate them. We’ve all needed to take a break, so we can reflect on ourselves.
Putting yourself first means listening to your anxiety and giving yourself the break you deserve. This act of self-care reminds us that we need a little extra kindness. Do not feel guilty for putting yourself first, you are simply fixing your crown and confidence. Whether it’s a night in to get more beauty sleep or taking a breath of fresh air from your garden, self-care is an important ritual.
Read a book to yourself
Read a book to take your mind off things. Taking time out with a book will give you some escapism, perfect for putting your worries aside. You can even make yourself a warm beverage to really get cosy with your chosen book. Whether it’s romance or a comedy, any book that will glow up your mood is worth your time.
Don’t feel guilty for picking up a book over a catch up with friends. If you need some me-time put yourself first. It is not selfish to put yourself first when in low spirits, it is self-care. If you are not up for a book because it feels too heavy for you at the moment, why not try a magazine instead?
Have fun with yourself
Spending time on yourself is a restorative act of self-love. You deserve to feel amazing in your own personal space. Doing something fun like an indoor spa day will distract you from the nagging voice of your anxiety. Indoor spas can also be budget-friendly, which is a bonus especially if you’re a student! Treating yourself to a meal for one is also a great way to enjoy your own company. If you have hobbies like painting or drawing, doodle away till sunset. If you fancy something simpler, book a duvet day at home.
Take up meditation to put yourself first
Meditation is a beautiful experience to share with yourself. It is an opportunity to blossom. Closing your eyes from the world to look deep within yourself is where the magic begins! Taking deep breaths and picturing your emotions as passing clouds will bring you to the present moment.
Meditation is a great technique for reducing negative emotions and bonding with yourself. Taking a moment to turn off your mobile phone will put your mind to rest. That critical voice in your head will eventually disappear too. You’ll be inspired to visit your safe place and treat your body like a temple.
Don’t feel guilty and remember “sharing is caring”
Always remember that you are never selfish for putting yourself first and that your true friends will assure you of this. There is no shame in opening up to the sisterhood about needing to take time out for yourself. Your beloved ladies will understand and true friends will never leave you in the dark.
Whenever you tell yourself you are selfish for taking time out, remind yourself that it is selfish not to listen to your emotions. Your emotions are valid and deserve to be heard. The sisterhood is stronger when we listen to each other and respect one another. Sharing is caring for other women who need to put themselves first too.
The beauty of putting yourself first
Do not let anyone dim your light! You should not feel negative about having your own back. Knowing when to take time out for yourself shows self-awareness, which helps tailor your self-care routine to your emotions. Our changing moods are like the seasons, difficult to cope with sometimes but plenty of beauty around us too.
Focusing on the beauty of yourself will help you discover your self-love, I promise! Your inner beauty deserves your loving attention, you deserve to nourish yourself with love. And always remember, it is about pampering your mind as well as your body too.
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Written by Nisha Patel
Illustrated by Francesca Mariama
