My Methods of Self Care

For me, taking care of myself means more than the standard eating well and exercising. Although those 2 things factor majorly into my life, I have experimented with other ways of well-being to see what differences I may feel. Here are things I do daily to help me be at my best.

Oil pulling. This is a fairly new addition to my daily routine, but even after a short time, I am feeling the benefits. Oil pulling is when you swish oil around in your mouth for 20 minutes in the morning before brushing, drinking or eating. I use coconut oil, but you can also use olive oil. Many benefits are associated with this, but the ones that stuck with me are these:
-pulls toxins out of your body (which is why its important to spit it out after the 20 minutes!)
-whitens teeth
-clears skin

Dry brushing. Also known as skin brushing, is when you take a natural brush (one that looks like a loofa for the shower with a wooden handle) and literally brush your skin with strokes leading toward the heart. Some of the benefits of dry brushing include:
-increased circulation
-exfoliation
-cellulite reduction
I do this daily before I shower. I feel amazing, both because my skin is like silk, but also because I know I'm taking an extra 5-10 minutes each day to take care of myself.

Lotion. This is so simple, but everyday after I shower I lather my skin with moisturizer.

Face wash. This one has less to do with the actual act of washing my face and more about what I use and how I do it; for months I've been washing my face with coconut oil mixed with tea tree oil. You wet your face, rub the oil in just like any other face wash, but instead of rinsing it off you wipe it with a hot towel. Before wiping it away, you rest the towel over your face for a few breaths. The aroma of the oils and the warmth of the cloth is so instantly soothing. Any extra oil gets absorbed by my skin and it is left feeling smooth and moisturized.

Yoga. For the last 2 weeks I have made it a habit to do anywhere from 10-30 minutes of gentle yoga before bed. Not only does this allow me to unwind from my day, but the increase in my flexibility is reassuring me that I'm doing my body good. Especially when I may not remember to stretch after a run or gym session, I know I'm still getting it in. I've been falling asleep faster, what seems to be sleeping deeper, and just feel better inside and out.

Afternoon tea. Especially with the cold winter upon us, I have really learned to look forward to and enjoy a hot cup of tea. I usually have mine after lunch which helps my body realize that I'm full, and I've noticed improvements in my digestion since this "tea time" relaxes my body and allows my body to digest my meal at its best.

Reading. I consider this a method of self care because it's something I truly enjoy. It's quiet, uninterrupted time just for me. It distracts me from housework, boredom snacking, or whatever else. The more I read the less I want to check my phone or turn on the TV, which in my opinion is just a-OK.

I work each and every one of these things into my daily routine. Each may only take a few minutes at a time, and the knowledge I gain from doing something good for my mind and body keeps me on a positive track for the rest of the day. I simply feel good :)