Seven solutions to find time for yourself

In our busy lives, we all need to practice self care. It keeps us grounded in our everyday tasks and reduces tension and stress in our lives.

Self care is about doing something for yourself and will enhance your wellbeing. Do one activity daily. When you choose to do this is up to you. However, it should be at a time that you can dedicate to yourself.

Here are some of my ideas that you can integrate into your life:

1. Write poetry- it's a great way of gathering your thoughts, expressing yourself and boosting mood.

2. Bake- if this is something that relaxes you, this is a fantastic activity. Either baking for yourself, your family or someone else, it can be very therapeutic.

3. Get creative - this can be with resources you have at home or join a class in your local area.

I recently attended a resin board creative class. This was a totally new craft for me. I produced a beautiful tray using a chosen colour palette of coral, orange, peach, soft cream, rose gold, black and gold glitter (see below). When applying the resin in all the different colours, I used a heated blow gun to move the colours in different directions which caused fantastic effects to the paint. It was a calming and satisfying experience.

It was exciting when I received the finish piece from the resin artist who run the workshop. I intend to use it as a serving tray. It is so wonderful when it is an item that has been made and produced by you.

4. Massage - go for a massage! It's an opportunity to unwind and relieve stress. There are so many different treatments available. I recently had a hot stone massage. I highly recommend it. Look up some of your local spas and treat yourself to a treatment or even a spa day.

5. Photography - visit somewhere that will encourage creativity and snap away! We went to Dockey Wood this week to see the beautiful bluebells in a tranquil forest. It's the best time of the year to visit, this is when the bluebells are at their peak.

All the outdoor photographs in this article were taken by me. I really enjoyed snapping away in this beautiful place.

Photography has always harnessed my creativity and given me freedom to express my emotions. I like to take photos that bring joy and spark interest. I will also focus on scenery, colour and a great angle or aspect in the photos I take.

6. As an extension of this, we also went forest bathing when we went into the forest of bluebells.

What is forest bathing I hear you ask?

This Japanese practice is a process of relaxation, known in Japan as shinrin yoku. The simple method of being calm and quiet amongst the trees, observing nature around you whilst breathing deeply can help both adults and children de-stress and boost health and wellbeing in a natural way.

This is also a form of mindfulness. Turn off your phones, slow down and breathe properly! You need to exhale and inhale deeply. It is also a sensory experience. Stop, look, listen and smell what’s around you. 

The natural way is often the most effective way to make you feel you are getting the best out of life.

7. Listen to a new podcast - there are so many interesting ones available. I have recently been listening to 'Table Manners'. It combines well known personalities with their origins and love of food. Just search for key words that interest you, and take it from there to find the podcast that you will most enjoy.

Send me a WhatsApp to arrange a one-on-one meeting so I can ensure this essential self care leads to important life goals and making the most of your positive journey in life.

Keep sending your feedback to me. It means a lot.

Life is good,
Lisa
[email protected]
+44 7958 342522

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