Feeling irritable or worn out? Does it seem as though life puts endless demands on your time and energy? Are you listless or apathetic? Chances are, you need to indulge in some extreme self-care. Yes, soothing yourself might involve a spa day or a quick cabin getaway. But the most effective, sustainable changes come with small adjustments in everyday habits. Read on for a few you can incorporate into your daily life.
- Check Out New Products
Once you’ve identified where you need some TLC, check out a few products online that are soothing and effective. For example, psoriasis is a condition that affects millions of Americans every day. While there is no cure for it, there are over the counter treatments that can alleviate the symptoms. Salicylic acid shampoo can soothe itchiness and irritation if you have flare ups on your scalp.
- Plan Ahead
One of the best ways to have a more laid-back daily experience is to plan ahead. Put together a calendar system that works for you; what works for someone else might not be your best strategy. Analog, digital, or combination; it really doesn’t matter. Planning ahead will help you build margin into your life so you feel more consistently calm and positive.
- Start a Spiritual Practice
If you don’t already have a consistent spiritual practice in place, consider starting one. Take into account your preferences and culture. Investigate what is accessible to you in your community. It might involve meditation, prayer, a spirituality group, or a religious organization. A solid spiritual practice is associated with improved physical and mental health and provides hope and comfort in uncertain times.
- Get Plenty of Sleep
Getting sufficient sleep and rest is an essential part of soothing every aspect of your being. During sleep, key body systems and functions are restored. Memories consolidate, and your mental outlook is refreshed. Establish a healthy sleep routine, going to bed and getting up at about the same time every day. Refrain from excessive blue screen light before bedtime, and keep the room temperature comfortable.
- Spend Time With Nurturing People
Think about the people you spend time with. Who leaves you feeling better than before you saw them? Who do you feel affirmed by (even if you’re challenged occasionally)? These are the friends to prioritize if you want to feel more serene and calm. Everyone knows people who are stimulating or depleting to be around. Be discerning and wise about the amount of time you devote to each of your different types of friends.
- Cut Down On Stress
To soothe yourself effectively, it’s important to identify and address the sources and types of stress you experience. If you’re about to completely remove some stressors, that’s ideal. It might be more realistic to decrease exposure to stressors and do what you can to mitigate the effects that stressors have on you. This can be a challenge to sort out, so it might be helpful to seek the support of a counselor when dealing with significant stressors.
- Take Breaks
Modern life usually involves plenty of effort. Effort and stimulation in themselves are not problematic, as long as you build in plenty of breaks in between expending energy. If you’re needing some extra soothing, it’s a good idea to extend these break times and make them more frequent. Constant productivity is counter-productive.
- Play Outdoors
Taking downtime outdoors is a great way to reset your nervous system, commune with nature, and get some perspective. With the increase of people working from home, it’s a temptation to stay inside: Resist it! Instead, get some sun in your face early in the day to reset your biological clock, and at least take a walk around the block in the middle of your work day. Walking or hiking in a park is even better.
- Eat for Pleasure
With the current focus on nutrition and dieting, the simple pleasures of preparing food and eating can get lost. Food is soothing. It’s a powerful source of nurturing, comfort, and community. Take advantage of this by going to a farmer’s market, slowly enjoying a delicious snack, or having a picnic with loved ones.
There are many ways to soothe and calm yourself. Try some of these tips to get started.
