Hello Self Love Club
This month, it seemed fitting to discuss things centred around the New Year. January is the time of year people tend to set New Year's resolutions, but many find it hard to stick to them. Remember, it's OK if you don't stick to them or have a few off days.
The start of the year is a great time to think about what you want to get out of the year and what you want it to bring. However, this time, let's shift the focus from resolutions to goals and habits that are kinder to ourselves.
Here are some ideas on goals and habits (these are things that have worked for us and not professional advice).
1. Gratitude 💛
Expressing gratitude and noticing the little things in life can have a positive impact on your emotions and well-being. Gratitude is not something you have to complete daily or write in a journal. You can note it down in your phone or just reflect on it in your thoughts.
Having an awareness of when something good has happened and reflecting on this is a good habit to add to your routine.
2. Find time for yourself regularly 🕒
Always try to make time for yourself and, check in with how you are feeling. Spending time with yourself is just as important as spending time with friends and family.
Some ideas to spend time with YOU is; running a bath, reading, going for a walk, take yourself on a date, watch a film or attending a creative workshop.
3. Create a morning routine 🌅
Morning routine - one way to reduce stress, is to start your day with a healthy routine. The way you start your day can shape how the rest of your day goes.
If you start your morning scrolling on your phone or waking up 10 minutes before work, you're more likely to be irritable and react to stressful scenarios. This could be a result of not allowing your brain to slowly adjust in the morning. In comparison, if you wake up 30 minutes earlier, have a decent breakfast, stretch, read or listen to a podcast in the morning, you are more likely to feel in tune with the day.
Starting your day off with YOU in mind is a great form of self care.
4. Spend more time with loved ones 👪
This one goes without saying, but social interaction is a good way to boost your well-being. This year try and pencil in more time to spend with those you love even if that is virtually (we love a good FaceTime).
5. Be more aware of how you feel around others 💭
The people you surround yourself with can also be a big contributor to your mood. The energy you are around can either be something that fills you up or mentally drain you.
Become aware of how you feel around your friends and family, do you feel energised and happy, or do you feel the opposite?
Once you notice how you feel, you can be more intentional with who you send your time with and how.
It's not selfish to have boundaries.
6. Start journaling your feelings 📓
As part of my therapy, I started writing down my thoughts when I found them too be overwhelming.
Putting that pen to paper and just writing away all the good and bad, has such a great feeling of relief.
I know it is not for everyone, but it's worth a try. If you prefer, you can note these down on your phone, anyway you find suitable to get the thoughts out of your head to create some mental clarity.
7. Spend more time on resting 💤
I don't know about you, but sometimes we can feel guilty for taking time and pausing. But rest is one of the most important things when looking after you.
If you feel tired, finding it hard to focus, stressed, or you just feel like you don't have the energy. Stop and rest, tap into your love language and relax.
Remember your body knows exactly what it needs so listen to it.
8. Create more experiences 🎟️
Probably one of the most important ones, remember to have fun and create memorable experiences. Take that trip, go see that film, go to the spa, move, take yourself shopping, learn that new skill. Whatever it is, DO IT!
We hope you enjoyed these suggestions, if there is any you would like to share, please let us know on social media @neyatreasure.
Photo by Calista Tee on Unsplash