Suzie Key Tima

Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed out? Do you struggle to manage your anxiety and find peace in your daily life?

If so, you’re not alone. I have had such a hard time lately and I have discovered a few things that have helped greatly.

Why Self-Care Matters

Self-care is not just a luxury, it’s a necessity. When we take care of ourselves, we’re better able to manage stress and anxiety, improve our mood, and increase our overall sense of well-being. By prioritizing self-care, we can:

• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Improve our mental health
• Boost our mood and energy levels
• Enhance our creativity and productivity
• Improve our relationships with others

10 Self-Care Routines to Reduce Stress and Anxiety

1. Morning Meditation
   Start your day with a 10-minute meditation session to clear your mind and set intentions. Use an app like Headspace or Calm to guide you.
   I personally Bible Meditations. If you are a Christian, you might want to try that. If you are not, you can still give it a try. I would pick a verse and sit with it. There are no rules or timeline. I find that the psalms are a great book to meditate on.
   
2. Gratitude Journaling
   Take a few minutes each day to write down three things you’re grateful for. Reflecting on the positive can help shift your focus away from stress and anxiety.
   
3. Stretching
   Stretching to release tension and improve flexibility. You can find classes online or follow along with videos on YouTube.
   
4. Nature Walks
   Take a short walk outside each day to connect with nature and clear your mind. Even a few minutes of fresh air and sunlight can make a big difference.
   
5. Creative Expression
   Engage in a creative activity like painting, drawing, or writing to express yourself and tap into your imagination.
   
6. Aromatherapy
   Inhale the benefits of essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and bergamot to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
   
7. Bath Time or Long Showers
   Soak in a warm bath with Epsom salts or essential oils to relax your muscles and calm your mind.
   
8. Reading
   Get lost in a good book to escape stress and anxiety. Choose a fiction novel or a self-help book to inspire and motivate you.
   
9. Mindful Eating
   Practice mindful eating by savoring each bite, paying attention to flavors and textures, and eating slowly.
   
10. Digital Detox
    Set aside time each day to disconnect from screens and devices. Use this time to relax, reflect, or engage in a hobby.

Tips for Making Self-Care a Habit

• Start small and commit to one or two self-care routines per day
• Schedule self-care into your daily planner or calendar
• Find a self-care buddy or accountability partner to support and motivate you
• Be gentle with yourself and remember that self-care is not a one-size-fits-all approach
• Experiment with different routines to find what works best for you

Remember to be patient and kind to yourself as you explore these routines, and don’t be afraid to try new things.