Self Care in Small Doses

It’s back to school time, and we know what that means.   Homework time, evening meetings, and after school activities are returning to your family routine.   Don’t forget to squeeze in some self care on the busiest days.  Here’s how:

1. Savor your shower/bath routine. Give yourself 10 extra minutes to enjoy your bath or shower rather than rushing through it.

2. Use your commute. Download an audio book or podcast to play in the car or on the train.   Short commute?   Try choosing an anthem for the week and play or sing it before you get out of your car or walk into your office.  Choose something that makes you feel like your best self.

3. Reset after every rough patch. When the morning routine crumbles into chaos, take a deep breath and start over.   If you yelled at the kids to get out the door, use the walk or the car ride to apologize and do a group reset.  Envision the emotion you’d like to have, and take immediate action to get there.

4. Practice acceptance. If the work doesn’t get done in the time allotted, don’t burn the midnight oil.   Identify some things you could let go and plan for tomorrow’s success.

5. Find your personal reset button.   Create a mini routine that gets you back in touch with your core self.    Set a timer so you don’t have to watch the clock, and

   • Do a series of 2-3 favorite yoga poses.

   • Meditate or listen to a guided imagery exercise.

   • Read a favorite poem.

   • Draw

   • Play or sing a favorite song.

   • Stretch or use progressive muscle relaxation.

   • Wash your face or brush your hair.

   • Massage your feet.

   • Eat a piece of fruit. Savor every bite.

   • Play with your pet.

   • Hug someone you love.

   • Listen to a favorite comedy bit.

   • Read an article about something you enjoy.

   • Have a cup of tea (skip the caffeine if you’re feeling anxious or not sleeping well).

   • Watch the clouds float by.

This is an important skill for your family, too!   Consider making a chart of each person’s favorite resets, and posting it in the kitchen.  Place a magnet or clip on the activity you’re doing when you go to reset, or use a game spinner to choose your activity.