Having healthy self-esteem can make a difference to your mental wellbeing and overall quality of life. Self-esteem is the subjective sense of overall personal worth or value, which is basically how you perceive yourself. It can influence how you navigate life decisions, challenges, and relationships. Self-esteem that is too high or too low, however, can be problematic.

When you are able to balance your self-esteem, you are more likely to trust your judgment, set healthy boundaries, and recover more quickly from setbacks. If your self-esteem is low, you could experience:

• Difficulty accepting compliments
• Fixation on past mistakes
• People-pleasing tendencies
• Self-doubt
• Comparing yourself to others
• Need for external validation
• Negative self-talk
• Trouble setting boundaries

According to research from 2023, self-esteem is linked to many areas of daily life, including relationships and how you feel at work. Self-esteem is closely linked to mental health, with higher self-esteem associated with lower levels of depression and anxiety. Self-esteem is not constant; rather, it can go up and down. You can strengthen your self-esteem over time by developing small, consistent habits. Build a more supportive relationship with yourself and improve your self-esteem today. 

Build A Strength’s Awareness Habit

It is very easy to focus on things that you don’t do well, but all of your strengths deserve equal attention. Make it a habit to reflect on things that you do well, such as being a good listener, showing up on time, being resilient, or remaining organized. Jot down one thing every day or revise moments, during which you handled something brilliantly. That process helps train your brain to see a more accurate picture of who you are. 

Notice And Reframe Negative Self-Talk

The way you speak to yourself can influence how you approach different things in life. It’s safe to say that most people have an inner critic that can quickly point out mistakes or assume the worst in things or people. Rather than silencing it completely, acknowledge this voice when it comes up. Accept that you are having a negative thought whenever it arises. By creating a small moment of awareness, you can step back from the thought instead of believing it instantaneously. You can then question the validity of your thought, or consider what a close friend might say/do in the current situation. Over time, you can start replacing overly critical thoughts with compassionate, balanced reactions. 

Surround Yourself With Supportive Influences

The people you surround yourself with can influence how you see and talk to yourself. Surrounding yourself with positive, loving people can make a big difference in your self-esteem and overall outlook on life. Pay attention to how you feel after hanging out with certain people, or engaging with certain content online. Ideally, lean into relationships that feel safe, respectful, and encouraging. Not everything in life is positive all the time, but consistent support from people around you can make a meaningful difference to your self-esteem. 

Practice Compassion During Setbacks

Every human messes up and experiences setbacks. Humans are imperfect, after all. Don’t interpret mistakes as proof that something is wrong with you; rather, view them as part of the learning or growing process. Self-compassion is about acknowledging something that is hard without adding layers of judgment. For example, something may not turn out the way you hope it to, but there is always a lesson to learn. That way of thinking can help protect your self-esteem in challenging moments. 

Limit Comparison Whenever Possible

It’s so easy to compare yourself to others, especially if you are on social media a lot. Constantly comparing yourself to others can distort your reality and undermine your total sense of worth. You want to build yourself up, not bring yourself down! Whenever you notice that you’re comparing yourself to others, direct your focus back to you, such as your progress, challenges, and timing. Whatever you are doing is unique to you, and shifting your focus inward can help you grow on your own path. 

Keep Small Promises To Yourself

Trust is a key component to developing good self-esteem. An effective way to build trust is by following through on things that you’ll say you will do. Start small by setting a specific goal for yourself, such as planning to cook one nourishing meal this week or going to a yoga class. Maybe you spend 20 minutes on a hobby you enjoy or complete a chore that you’ve been putting off. Each time you follow through with something you set out to do, you are not only completing a task, but also proving to yourself that you can show up and put in the effort. That trust helps reinforce the belief that you can handle difficult things, and consistent small wins like that can build a strong, internal foundation.

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Self-care is exactly what it sounds like: taking care of yourself. That can mean different things for different people. In general, self-care involves carving out a chunk of time, or even a day, to treat yourself properly. Take baths, pamper yourself, engage in meditation, treat your body right, or do any activity that relieves stress and makes you feel great. Practicing self-care can help improve your physical, mental, and emotional health. 

Why Is Self-Care Important?

Self-care is more than just a buzz term circling health and beauty websites. The average person spends so much time working long hours and caring for others, and they often put themselves last. Putting others first is not a negative trait, but it does mean that you may not invest quality time in yourself. It is more than acceptable, encouraged even, to pay adequate attention to your mental and emotional health. Being mindful of your own needs is the ultimate act of self-love.

We invite you to take part in self-care Sunday, which is one day of the week that you take for yourself. Sunday is usually the day because Monday starts the work week, which can be stressful. You can practice on whichever day is your Sunday, just so long as you take the time to press the reset button and recharge. 

Spend Time In Bed

Don’t rush your Sunday morning wake-up. That said, sleep experts do encourage people to practice regular sleep/wake times to establish a healthy circadian rhythm. If you wake up, you don’t have to leave your bed right away. Open a book and spend a little extra time reading in bed. You can even exit the bed, make yourself breakfast, and enjoy breakfast in bed. 

Go For A Morning Walk

This may not be at the top of your self-care to-do list, but taking a quick morning walk is a great way to start the day. You get bonus points if you soak up some morning sunshine as that helps energize the mind and body. Walking is a great way to burn a few extra calories and can help you clear your mind. Take your relaxation up a notch by walking in nature, as that has been proven to improve mood, focus, and creativity.’

Spa Day At Home

Take your self-care Sunday to the next level with an at-home luxury spa day experience. Pamper yourself and let your stress melt away in a warm bath, to which you add relaxing essential oils. Consider putting on light music and dimming the lights. You can also apply a face mask, enjoy some light snacks, and even a glass of wine. Most importantly, mute your phone, relax, and enjoy your day off. You may even find some great at-home spa kits online!

Journal It Out

Journaling is a powerful self-care tool. It helps you clear your mind and release any tension, anger, or frustration within. Journaling also helps you observe your feelings, checking in with your negative emotions and bad experiences. After letting it out on the page, make sure to follow it up with some notes of gratitude, as that helps infuse your mind with joy and happiness. 

Meal Prep

Doesn’t meal prepping take up quite a bit of your time and energy? Although that is one way to look at it, another way to look at meal prepping is that you are caring for your future self. It is very easy to spend hours on social media or binge-watching a show. Make more use of your time by being productive. Stay away from things that drain your energy or harm your mood/self-confidence. Choose a couple meals to prepare so that you have less work to do when it comes time to eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner during the week. 

Meditate

For beginners, meditation can be very challenging, but that’s perfectly acceptable. Meditation is a useful tool to benefit your emotional and mental health. It works to alleviate stress, reduce anxiety, and get rid of negative self-talk. If you find that traditional silent meditation is very difficult, consider experimenting with guided meditation. This can also be a useful practice to do before bed, as it can help relax the mind and improve sleep. 

Social Media Detox

Social media can be very time-consuming and you can spend hours scrolling without any real purpose. Just think: do you need to spend 45 minutes sitting on the toilet? Social media sucks you in and most platforms can be quite toxic. On your self-care day, stay away from anything that can drain your energy or harm your mood. You might find that leaving social media alone for one day a week gives you a better outlook on life.

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Why would you want to build resilience? Well, building resilience helps you overcome challenges, grow as a person, and face adversity. Unfortunately, you are not born with resilience, but anyone can practice and build it. Through various self-care practices, you can not only stay emotionally and mentally well, but also move through hard times and learn from experiences. This year, make it a point to become stronger and more resilient with these mental health practices. 

Set Realistic Goals

In order to set yourself up for success, you have to set realistic goals, which is essentially the practice of breaking down challenges into smaller, more manageable tasks. Not only will you build resilience by meeting your goals more often, but you’ll also move forward more quickly. If you want to run a 5K, for example, and you do not have a regular running routine, you cannot expect to be race-ready in a week’s time. Gradually build up your skills as a runner, jogging more each day until you have built up enough endurance to run one mile. Then you can run two miles and be closer to your 5K. 

• Break up those bigger goals into smaller steps. 
• Commit to each step and work toward your goal with a daily practice.
• Make sure each of your steps is realistic and doable. 
• Celebrate each accomplishment. 
• Gather support by reaching out to people who are working toward similar goals.

Build Problem-Solving Skills

Solving problems effectively is a great way to build resilience. To become more adept at problem-solving, you have to develop the knowledge and skillset to tackle problems with strategies that work. Consider these steps:

• Begin by identifying the problem you want to solve.
• Do your best to describe the problem by either writing it down or voicing it out loud.
• Try to determine the cause of the problem before trying to solve it.
• Think of several possible solutions for the problem. 
• Not the results and continue experimenting until you find a solution. 
• Having the right mindset will get you that much closer to solving the problem. 

Develop A Growth Mindset

When you have a growth mindset, you can see life’s challenges as new opportunities to learn. Basically, a growth mindset is the belief your abilities are not fixed; rather, you can develop new strengths and skills at any time. When you encounter something difficult, you do not retreat. You face the situation head on with the understanding that you will emerge a stronger person on the other side, and that you may learn a lesson to benefit you in the future. To help cultivate a growth mindset:

• Have realistic expectations of what you can accomplish. 
• Learn to embrace imperfections.
• Embrace the journey of learning via experience. 
• Learn to value and accept any and all criticism. 
• Reframe your idea of what failure means and learn from mistakes. 
• Give yourself the time and space to work through challenges or problems. 

Don’t Forget About Self-Care

What does self-care mean, and how does it help you build resilience? Well, you cannot move through difficult situations if you are not emotionally, mentally, and physically well. Self-care is any activity or practice that nourishes you. That could be reading a book in a bubble bath, meditating, or watching a couple episodes of your favorite show while doing a facial skin care routine. Common self-care practices include:

• Eating a nutrient-rich, balanced diet. 
• Practicing daily habits that help relieve stress, such as meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness.
• Prioritizing sleep.
• Writing and reflecting on thoughts, feelings, or life experiences. 
• Engaging in regular physical activity that you actually enjoy.

Embrace Change And Be Flexible

The last thing you want to be is rigid when it comes to building resilience. Life is about embracing change and adapting to things when you encounter them. Your resilience is dependent on your ability to change directions when necessary. It’s also about appreciating imperfections and learning from unexpected things or experiences. Some ways you can do this are as follows:

• Try to look at the bigger picture and know that overreacting to something difficult does not help you move forward. 
• Understand that change is a part of life and that even if things get shaky, the only thing you can control is your reaction. 
• Try to maintain some hope, even if life throws you a few curveballs. Difficult situations can be unexpected, but the same applies for good situations. 
• Become more mindful of fixed thoughts, such as, “There is no way I’m doing that.” Or, “Everything is going to be this way forever!”

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Winter can seem like a very romantic time because something about cozying up seems romantic. There are various activities that seem to exclude single people, and there’s no fun in seeing everyone couple up. You don’t have to let couples enjoy an entire season while you sit it out and let your emotions get the better of you.

Regardless of your relationship status, you should always date yourself. That can mean different things for different people, but the general gist is enjoying alone time and treating yourself right. You don’t need to rely on anyone else during this alone time, which can often help relieve stress. There’s nothing like the winter season to start dating yourself. Continue reading to learn where to begin.

Go Ice Skating

As a quick note: don’t go ice skating on a questionable lake by yourself in the middle of nowhere. Ice skating at a holiday rink or on a public frozen pond can seem like a winter date idea, but it isn’t just an activity for couples. Going alone can be just as fun and you don’t have to worry about your skill level, so there is less pressure to “be good.” No need to impress anyone, so bundle up and head to the skating rink, get out on the ice, get in some exercise, and enjoy a hot beverage when you’re done. 

Take Yourself To A Show

You don’t have to spend your night in the house just because it’s cold outside. You can enjoy a night indoors and leave your house, too! Take yourself to a concert, show, comedy show, or movie. You can enjoy it with a friend or date, but there are many perks to attending shows alone. You don’t have to worry about abandoning anyone or worrying whether the person is enjoying it or not.

Teach Yourself Something New

One of the best ways to occupy your time and engage your brain is to learn something new. Consider learning a new language with an app or sign up for a drawing or pottery class. You can also take the time to learn a new instrument. There are so many informational tutorials for beginners and experts alike. You can teach yourself via these online videos or courses. The great thing about learning a new skill is that you might learn something new about yourself in the process!

Have A Nostalgia Night

Do you remember the days of living room forts and staying up all night watching TV or playing games? Adulthood doesn’t mean that you have to give up on those nights! Keep your memories alive and make new ones by building a cozy adult fort with pillows and blankets. Spend the night revisiting old TV shows and movies you love. If you have a record player and vinyl records, have a night where you enjoy a glass or two of wine and just listen to your favorite records from front to back. Make some snacks or go out and buy a few favorites from your youth. The possibilities on a nostalgia night are endless!

Cook A Fancy Dinner

This doesn’t just have to be a wintertime activity because you deserve a fancy dinner whenever you want one. Most fancy dinners are labor intensive, so you may not want to go through the effort all the time. That said, consider taking yourself out to dinner if you don’t have the right ingredients or culinary tools on hand. Preparing a quality meal from scratch, while it requires time, often delivers a great sense of accomplishment. Not only will you feel proud of yourself for pulling the dish off, but you’ll also make your taste buds happy.

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The holiday season can be very uplifting for a lot of people, but not everyone feels that way. It’s very common for stress to overwhelm the mind and body during this time of year. Perhaps the stress of finding the perfect gift for your loved ones proves too much. Hosting a large family gathering, or traveling to meet family can also induce a lot of stress. 

What Are Healthy Boundaries?

Mental health experts agree that setting clear boundaries can make a big difference in preserving your mental and emotional health. A healthy boundary can be defined as such: your list of what is okay and what is not okay. That means you have to clearly establish what you are comfortable with before encountering certain situations. Perhaps you are sober and attend a holiday party. Some friends or family members come and try to get you to drink, but you have to let them know that you are content without imbibing. Your uncle treats you like a child even though you are 40 years old. Whatever the case, you feel frustrated, and that is where healthy boundaries enter the equation. 

Define Priorities

Before you even think about setting boundaries, make sure you understand what your priorities are. Are there aspects of the holiday season that are meaningful to you? Is it important to spend time with immediate family, reconnect with old friends, or spend time alone? Make sure to understand your priorities, as that understanding will guide you to set boundaries that set you up for success. 

Communicate Openly

Do not be afraid to share your intentions and needs with people. If they truly care about you, then they will respect these boundaries because they are important to you. Honest conversations can prevent conflict and misunderstanding. In fact, your loved ones are more likely to respect your wishes if you explain where you are coming from and why these boundaries matter. 

Create A Budget

This is more of a personal boundary that can help you avoid stress regarding gift giving. Financial stress is very common during the holidays, as many people often spend beyond their means. Setting a budget for holiday spending can help you avoid financial stress. That means that you have to plan your budget for holiday gifts, travel, and entertainment expenses ahead of time. The most important thing: stick to that budget!

Politely Decline

You do not have to say yes to every single party invitation or holiday request that comes your way. There is great power in the ability to say no. You can politely decline when you need to, and remember that it is perfectly acceptable to do so. In fact, saying no to things is a great way to conserve your energy for things that matter the most. Whether you know it or not, saying know is a great way to practice self-care and set boundaries simultaneously. 

Prioritize Self-Care

Speaking of self-care, it is very easy to forget about yourself during the holidays. It is difficult to take care of yourself when there is so much to do. Find moments for yourself and do things you love during those moments. Go to the gym, watch a movie, read a book, meditate, or practice writing in a journal. Do not be afraid to recharge your batteries and show yourself love. Consider gifting yourself a massage or facial!

Congratulate Yourself

You stood your ground, you said no, you shared what mattered to you, and then some. Great job! Being vulnerable, honest, and respectful is not easy, but you did it! Sometimes, it takes a little force to establish boundaries, but people will respect them if they care about you. People may get upset at your boundaries, but don’t worry about that. Setting boundaries will help you feel more confident about setting new ones when the time comes. At that time, you’ll have the knowledge and power to set them even more clearly!

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How do you ring in the season of pumpkin spice and Halloween candy? Do you head to pumpkin patches, go apple picking, or get in the fall spirit by decorating your home? However you enjoy the fall season, one thing is for certain: your mental health deserves attention as the weather changes. In the blink of an eye, the holidays will be here and stress levels will skyrocket. Making a point to devote time for self-care in the fall can greatly benefit you towards the end of the year. 

Why Do You Need Self-Care?

Stress is a natural part of life for everyone. Sometimes, stress is that little extra nudge you need to complete a project on time. There are a lot of negative stressors in your life, though, and you can’t avoid all of them. Self-care helps to counteract the negative effects of stress! Without self-care practices, stress can build up in your system, boiling over and wreaking havoc on your body. Stress goes beyond anxiety and mental exhaustion; rather, it can make you eat unhealthy or physically ill. 

Self-care is all the steps and actions you take to nourish you physical, mental, and emotional health. Exercise, talking with a friend, cleaning your house, soaking in a bath, getting a massage, or making a meal count as self-care practices. As the seasons change, it is nice to adapt your self-care practices. You don’t have to make extravagant changes, but it can be nice to embrace certain aspects of fall and incorporate them into your life. Read on to learn about some helpful self-care practices for fall. 

Embrace The Sunshine

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) impacts about one in every 20 American adults. The change of season, no matter if the weather transitions from warm to cold or cold to warm, triggers the condition. For those who suffer from this condition annually, it can be beneficial to embrace the sunshine whenever you get the chance. If you notice that your mood dips as the days get shorter and weather gets colder, go outside if the weather permits. You can also speak with your doctor about taking the right steps to treat SAD with light therapy. Many people find that this therapy greatly improves their mood and SAD symptoms. 

Savor A Warm Drink

Half the fun of colder weather is enjoying an amazingly soothing warm beverage. While we don’t encourage you to consume sugar-laden pumpkin spice lattes on the regular, and occasional one may bring you joy. Tea, coffee, cider, or cocoa are the classic hot beverages that seem to warm the soul. Maximize this self-care practice by taking the time to enjoy the beverage. Don’t simply gulp it down in the car while commuting; rather, take the time to sit, relax, and enjoy your drink. Listen to a podcast, read a book, or watch an episode of your favorite show with your hot drink. 

Spruce Up Your Space

A change of seasons is a great opportunity to give your space a thorough deep cleaning. Getting rid of unnecessary things can be difficult, but also very relieving in regards to stress. Put away the summery things and get out the fall and winter items you’ll use until the spring. Leaving your summer things in your house along with the fall things can create clutter, which can induce stress. Make sure to place your seasonal decorations in bins that you clearly label. Store them in a garage or shed, if that is a viable option, so that they aren’t cluttering up the inside of your home. 

Layer Up And Walk Outside

Before the temperatures become frigid, depending on where you live of course, enjoy the outdoors. You don’t have to venture into nature, although that is never discouraged, because a neighborhood stroll is enough to recharge the batteries. According to research, being outside while the sun is shining may help decrease symptoms of depression and boost levels of happiness. If the temperatures are chillier in the fall, dress yourself in some warmer layers that you can shed as your body warms up during the walk. Try to go on a 30-minute walk whenever you feel overwhelmed, and increase the benefits of this walk by talking to a loved one on the phone. 

Get Out Your Favorite Fall Clothes

Sweater weather is a thing, folks, and bundling up in a cozy sweater is like giving yourself a giant hug. Not only that, bundling up when it gets colder can feel quite soothing, almost as if you are receiving a giant hug. There is also value in wearing clothing that makes you feel good about yourself. Researchers say that wearing something you love triggers the release of dopamine, a hormone that ignites the reward center of your brain. There is even a #DopamineDressing trend with hundreds of thousands of posts on Instagram!

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The beaches are filling up, the pools are open, and cookouts are aplenty. Your city may even put together outdoor summer concerts, or you may have a vacation lined up. If you have children, they may be in summer camps or looking forward to playdates and other summertime activities. All of that was exhausting to read, right? Now, imagine coordinating all of that and getting to every engagement!

There are internal and external pressures to make the most of your summer. Those factors may push you into overdrive during the seemingly “laid-back and chill” season. If going to the beach becomes a chore instead of a jovial experience, you are likely experiencing a burnout. The term “burnout” is a common workplace term because exhaustion from work is quite common. Work-related stress can also cause you to burnout, but this term is a bit more broad now. 

During the pandemic, many parents experienced burnouts. Monitoring scholastic Zoom sessions, keeping the children occupied and safe, and having to work and worry about the future did anything but relax parents. A 2022 report noted feelings or irritability, emotional detachment, and a general overwhelmed feeling as a parental burnout. The primary takeaway, according to mental health experts, is that a burnout tends to result from an over-stressed life. Physical, mental, and emotional elements can all cause exhaustion and varying emotions, but you can control them if you know what to do. 

Why Is Summer Causing A Burnout?

The summer burnout is real, according to psychologists. Why is that the case when summer is a traditionally a relaxing time of year? People enter summer with certain expectations, the most common of which is that it will be exciting, amazing, and incredibly fun. That mentality over-commits yourself to potential opportunities that come your way. That, in turn, causes you to feel overwhelmed and ambushed. The differing schedules, vacations, child pickups, and more are all moving parts that require mental energy. Not only that, but the schedules are very tiring and fill up your plate. 

If you feel burned out and want to enjoy the rest of your summer, consider the following tips to help you cope with a burnout. 

Embrace Flexibility

As a human, it is very natural to think in a very black and white way. For example, you either go to your friend’s barbecue or you don’t. In reality, there are many decisions you can make about certain events, or anything involving your participation. If your neighbor invites you over for a backyard cookout, go over for a drink and then head out. Part-time attendance is a beautiful thing, giving you all the perks of participating and enjoying down time as well. Always ask yourself what actions will serve you in the best way and go from there. Being flexible is a skill, and an amazing one at that!

Focus On One Thing At A Time

If you multitask your way through life, you tend to skip over crucial details. Some people look at multitasking as a way to fit everything in, but it can fuel inattention and an unproductive attitude. If you work at the pool or beach while trying to enjoy yourself and monitor your children, your full attention is not directed at any of the tasks. In order to prioritize one thing, you have to de-prioritize another thing. Splitting your focus is a surefire way to burn yourself out, but focusing on one thing at a time can help you take back control of your life. For example, put your phone down if you’re working and stop working if you want to enjoy family time. 

Create A Summer Value Statement

What do you want to embrace this summer? Do you want to learn more about yourself, or do you want to become more adept at anticipating the needs of others? A value statement can help you avoid a burnout because it outlines personal or family qualities to which you want to adhere. Whatever you value is the right answer! Think about the ways you behave this summer and see if your actions align with your value statement. When invitations or obligations arise, you can decide how you want to act according to your value statement. 

Check In With Yourself

It can occasionally feel like life is running away from you, but you can pivot, assess, and redirect your efforts to prevent that from happening. Psychologists encourage you to regularly check in with yourself to avoid disconnecting entirely. If you feel frazzled, take time to hit the pause button and ask yourself what you need. Do you need more rest and relaxation? Perhaps you need to spend less time operating around your kids’ schedules. Try to establish a regular practice of seeing what you need to make summer as enjoyable as possible. 

Schedule Time To Do Less

You most likely have a to-do list, but is “do less” on that list? If you are constantly on the move and feel stressed, give yourself permission to scale back. Try to list out everything that you have to do in the coming week, or month if you prefer a long-term view. Ask yourself what you can cut out, or what’s easiest to cut. Sometimes, you just need to watch some TV or read a book. Other times you may want to go for a run or head to the beach with friends. Don’t be afraid to do less because it is often a great remedy!

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Spring has officially sprung, which means it is time to shed those winter layers and enjoy some warmer temperatures. Some people like to freshen up their homes, getting rid of clutter that accumulated during the fall and winter seasons. Although spring cleaning is a self-care tip, it is not the only way to practice self-care this season. We would like you to think of spring as a chance to pay more attention to your own well-being, however that looks to you. We just hope the suggestions in this article resonate with you. 

On the surface, self-care refers to taking care of yourself, be it mentally, emotionally, or physically. Perhaps you take yourself to a spa or head to the gym to fit exercise into your day. On a deeper level, though, self-care might translate to changing your overall outlook to help you feel more comfortable and self-assured every day. Begin your self-care regimen wherever (and however) you see fit. Consider the following tips to get you going.

Embrace Doing Nothing

The power of relaxing is an art form. Sometimes, you just have to unplug from life and take the day to do absolutely nothing. Allow yourself to feel bored and consider revisiting a former hobby. You may also want to catch up with old friends or family members on the phone. If that sounds painful to you, consider “escaping” from your life for the day. Don’t worry about timing or chores that must be done. Take the day and watch some TV shows or movies. Don’t overexert yourself because a lot of people need rest to rejuvenate the body. 

Get Out In Nature And Ground Yourself

Given that spring exhibits warmer temperatures, now is a great time to go outside. According to researchers, spending time in nature is one of the best ways to reduce stress, promote mental clarity, and regulate the nervous system. That may look like a hike in the hills, a walk through a neighborhood park, lounging on the beach, or sitting in your backyard with a book. When you are in nature, take off your shoes and consider grounding yourself. Remove your shoes and connect with the earth’s energy through your bare feet. Identify the things you see, hear, feel, smell, and taste during this grounding exercise, and it will help you focus on the present moment. All you have to do is be wherever you are. 

Do An Emotional Check-In

Different seasons affect your mood more than you realize. For example, winter can take a toll on mental health, resulting in seasonal depression, or seasonal affective disorder. During spring, take the time to check in with yourself in the following ways:

• What patterns from winter do you want to get rid of?
• Are there emotions that have been present in your life lately?
• What are you looking forward to in the coming weeks or months?

Write down your thoughts or consider discussing them in therapy, as both of these methods can help you gain better insight to what your body needs this spring. A spring journal, or mood tracker, can help you note behavioral patterns from day to day.

Get Moving, If Possible

If you live in an area that experiences severely cold weather, spring provides the warmth needed to get you out and about. Cabin fever is all too common during the winter, but warmer weather allows for a hike in the forest, or a surf session in the ocean. If the weather is too wet to go out in nature, consider taking part in an indoor yoga class. A session of stretching can also be beneficial to your body, loosening you up for optimal movement. 

Meditate

One of the best ways to boost overall mental health is to be more present and mindful. New to meditation? Get started by sitting in a comfortable spot and engage in deep breaths, in through your nose and out through your mouth. Try your best to clear your mind and direct your focus to your breath. Meditation is a mental journey and even though your mind may wander, always come back to your breath. 

Try A New Self-Compassion Exercise

Self-care is not just about what you do; rather, it is how you speak to yourself. During this spring season, practice self-compassion by replacing your own criticism with kindness. If you find yourself talking to yourself in a negative way, pause and ask, “What would I say to a close friend in this same situation?” Would you speak to them in the same negative tone? If the answer is no, alter the way you talk to yourself to encourage positivity.

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There are many things that you can do to improve self-care. Many people find that great forms of self-care include meditation, exercise, bubble baths, playing video games, reading, and more. However you engage in self-care is your prerogative, and we are all for it! It is an essential component to your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. 

Creating your own cuticle salve with natural ingredients is a great way to enhance your self-care routine. The process of creating your own beauty or skin care products can be a relaxing experience in and of itself. Not only will this cuticle salve improve your overall nail health, but it may also leave your hands feeling soft and rejuvenated. Whip it up by completing a few simple steps and it’ll be ready in under an hour! It is great to use during dry weather. 

How Shea Butter Helps Your Nails

Shea butter is full of essential fatty acids and vitamins A and E. All of these nutrients help provide hydration to dry and brittle cuticles, which can help prevent cracking and bleeding. Because shea butter has emollient properties, it helps to increase moisture levels in the skin. This ensures that your cuticles remain supple and soft. Shea butter also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe any irritation or redness around the cuticle. That makes shea butter especially beneficial for anyone with discomfort that stems from dryness. 

Almond Oil For Your Nails

Similar to shea butter, almond oil also contains vitamin E, which works to promote the growth of healthy cuticles. At the same time, it may help prevent breakage of both your nails and cuticles. Some preliminary research suggests that almond oil may improve blood circulation to the nail area, which encourages faster regeneration and healing. Additionally, almond oil offers anti-inflammatory properties that may relieve redness or irritation. The nourishing properties in almond oil make cuticles easier to manage by softening them. Regular use of almond oil may contribute to stronger, healthier nails and reduce the likelihood of hangnails or other common cuticle problems. 

Vitamin E Oil Supports The Cuticles

In addition to the vitamin E present in both shea butter and almond oil, we decided to add more to the cuticle salve with vitamin E oil. Just like your skin, your nails require moisture to remain healthy and strong. Vitamin E oil is incredibly hydrating and helps restore dry cuticles by enhancing moisture in the nail bed. In order to produce healthy nails, keratin dead cells have to receive a continued blood supply that is rich in vital nutrients. Vitamin E oil helps supply the blood with the right amount of nutrients necessary for healthy growth. 

Beeswax Benefits Cuticles

Beeswax is a common ingredient in various beauty products, especially cuticle care products, lip balms, and other products that promise hydration. It can keep the nails and cuticles healthy by forming a protective barrier that prevents damage. Not only does this protective layer maintain hydration, but it also protects against the elements. Beeswax also works to keep the cuticles supple and healthy by providing hydration via the emollient properties. 

Homemade Cuticle Salve

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup shea butter
• 1/4 cup almond oil
• 1 teaspoon beeswax pellets
• 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
• 5-10 drops essential oil of choice (optional for fragrance)

Instructions:

• Combine the shea butter, almond oil, and beeswax pellets in a microwave-safe container and microwave for about 45 to 60 seconds (or until everything is melted). Just make sure to monitor it closely so it doesn’t overheat. 
• Once the mixture is melted, remove the container from the microwave and stir with a wooden utensil. Add the vitamin E oil and optional essential oil and stir to combine. 
• Pour the mixture into a storage jar and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. This is a crucial step, as it solidifies into the salve, which you can apply easily. 
• Store the salve in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It can last for several months, but if it changes in scent or texture, go ahead and discard it.

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First of all, we just want to explain that there is nothing wrong with celebrating Thanksgiving by yourself. Although it may be unfamiliar territory, considering that this holiday is traditionally spent with family and friends, you may find yourself alone this year or in the future. There are also those who do not enjoy the Thanksgiving meal and simply want to enjoy a night alone. Whichever way you choose to celebrate Thanksgiving is the right way, but should you be alone on this holiday, we have a few fun activities for you. 

Whether it is by choice or an unlucky circumstance, being alone on Thanksgiving can be a challenge. You may lack the funds to celebrate it, or you may live in a city with no family or friends, and travel may be difficult due to budget restrictions or weather. You can spend Thanksgiving by yourself without feeling lonely or bored. Continue reading to learn how you can do just that. 

Cook Your Favorite Food

You don’t have to cook a turkey and stuffing just because it is Thanksgiving. When you celebrate this holiday alone, you have the freedom to take the reins in the kitchen and cook what your heart desires. Make enough for yourself and yourself alone, or make a little extra if you want to have some leftovers. Throw on a record or pop in your headphones to listen to a podcast while you are doing your thing in the kitchen. When the meal is ready, you will be too, and that’s a beautiful thing. If you don’t feel like cooking, simply order takeout!

Catch Up On Your Favorite Shows

Is the movie you never got to see in theaters finally available on a streaming platform? Have you been meaning to catch up on episodes for a series that you enjoy? Entertain yourself with a good binge-watching session! You have the time on this holiday, so use it how you please. If you finish a couple episodes and want to put something else on, consider a classic or modern holiday-inspired movie that you can easily find on streaming platforms. 

Watch Some Football

If you don’t have a favorite show and are not interested in new movies, throw on the football games that happen every Thanksgiving. There is always a game airing on this holiday, and watching it by yourself means you won’t miss a moment. Nobody will be there to interrupt you and you don’t have to listen to negative comments from friends or family members who are not sports fans. You can even use social media to engage with other football fans watching the same game(s).

Give Back To Your Community

Doing something good for someone else, or a lot of people, is often one of the best things to do when celebrating Thanksgiving alone. Even though you may not be with friends or family, you can make a difference by bringing joy to the lives of others. Some people always have to spend Thanksgiving alone, so spending it with those in a worse situation than you may actually make your Thanksgiving that much more enjoyable and wholesome. 

Have A Self-Care Day

If you are alone and don’t have any obligations, spend the day pampering yourself! Self-care and relaxation should take priority on your Thanksgiving Day to-do list. Take this alone time to unwind in a soothing bath, or take an extra long facial skin care routine. You can even go so far as to put on a robe and place cucumbers over your eyelids! By the time the Thanksgiving weekend is over, you will feel recharged, well-rested, and ready to get back to your regular responsibilities. 

Do Some Shopping

If you have the financial means to do so, consider taking part in some retail therapy. Most companies offer Black Friday sales well before Thanksgiving begins, so you will definitely get some deals. Take the time to get a head start on buying holiday gifts for your loved ones, or get something that you’ve been desiring for a while. Splurge on yourself because you deserve it.

Curl Up With A Good Book

Earlier in the article, we suggested that you catch up on your favorite TV shows. If you want to do that, then do just that! If you don’t want to spend your day in front of a screen, consider starting or finishing a book. Books, much like TV or movies, can transport you to fantastical places, or provide excellent and inspiring stories. If the book you choose to read is really captivating, you may finish it in one day! 

Begin A New Tradition

No matter your reasons for spending Thanksgiving alone, you cannot be sure that you won’t spend it alone in the future. What does that mean for you? Well, come up with a new Thanksgiving tradition for yourself. Don’t wait for company in order to celebrate your way! Maybe your new tradition is to play solitaire when you get up, or to do a yoga sequence after breakfast. A great new tradition could be to make one new dish every year!

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