There are so many rules, expectations, and endless decisions. It hardly ever feels like there’s time to do something you want to do, let alone something like “self-care.” But here’s the truth: if you don’t take care of yourself, who will?

Yes, life is busy. There’s work, kids, family, friends, the groups you belong to. There’s grocery shopping, changing the oil, paying the bills… The list truly never ends. It’s a constant cycle of doing, giving, and pushing forward. Where do you put yourself in the cycle?

Here’s the thing… you are only one person… one body, one mind, one soul. And you can only carry so much. You can only give so much. That’s why there has to be balance in your everyday life, so you can recharge and reconnect. Not just so you can get back to your to-do list, but so you can actually enjoy your life.

Your life should be about you, just as much…if not more… than it is about your job, your commitments, or that weekend soccer game.

Here are a few ways I practice self-care:

Exercise-
It doesn’t have to be long, intense, or leave me drenched in sweat. Just 10 minutes of movement a walk, a bike ride, or a short Pilates session… flips a switch in my brain. I feel energized, focused, and successful. It’s even better when I can get outside early in the day, soak up some sunshine, and beat the heat. Movement really does shift my mood.

Golf-
Truly one of the most frustrating games I’ve ever participated in. I find myself often frustrated or angry! So why is this self care you ask? Well, it’s a completely solo game (unless you’re awesome and have a caddy…) you are in control of how, when, where, and most all parts of your play. It is a game that you do for yourself. It challenges you to stay clear minded and take it one stroke at a time. It reminds me to breathe relax and reset. It helps me stay in the moment and not worry about other life stresses.

Gardening-
Lately, I’ve gotten into plants. I love them. Watching them come to life, leaf by leaf, flower by flower and seeing growth unfold right before my eyes is incredibly fulfilling. I talk to my plants and affirm their beauty and place in this world. It makes me feel productive and happy. I am creating beautiful colorful spaces right where I spend most of my time and it’s a sight to behold.

Yoga-
Yoga has truly transformed my mental health. When I step onto the mat, I leave the stress behind. I focus on my breath, my body, and how everything flows together. It brings me back to myself, present, calm, and more grounded.

Journaling-
Writing soothes my soul. I journal about the highs and lows, about relationships, feelings, and everything in between. I don’t write for anyone else. I don’t edit or hold back. I just get it all out, and that release is healing. It clears space in my mind so I can move forward.

Self-care isn’t selfish it’s necessary.
It doesn’t have to be expensive, extravagant, or time-consuming. It just has to be intentional. When you take care of yourself, everything else gets a little bit easier to carry. You feel more like yourself and that’s the point.