10 Quick Ways to Add Some Fun to Your Self-Care

Has your self-care routine gotten stagnant, or worse, become nonexistent? When life is busiest and most stressful is when you need self-care the most! You're so often told, in order to be a good mother, lover, employee, etc. to put everyone else before yourself. But how can you truly do your best or give selflessly when you're running on empty?

I've compiled a few ideas here to inject some fun into your self-care. So shake off the cobwebs and get ready for some fun!

1.Put on music and dance.

Pick something that makes you really want to move, maybe something you haven't listened to in years that takes you back to a time when you were happy or carefree. Crank it up and dance for at least one song. Maybe leave it on and bee-bop while cooking dinner, doing dishes, or cleaning up.

2.Sing in the shower.

Music optional. Just let go of any self-judgment and belt out your favorite refrain.

3.Wear something that makes you feel Ah-mazing.

I'm not necessarily talking about lingerie. If that makes you feel good about yourself, go for it, girl! But if not, you're not alone. Think of something else that makes you feel like a badass. Is it sassy black boots? Or a fist full of blingy rings? Did you get a new piece of clothing that is cut juuuust right and makes you look like fire? Break those babies out and work it!

4.Do something spontaneous.

Play tourist for a day and check out an attraction you've never been to, try ax throwing, paint your own pottery, take a picnic to a new park, or just drive around somewhere you've never explored.

5.Buy or pick yourself your favorite flowers.

You don't have to go crazy here. I've picked up some grocery store lilies that lasted for weeks for less than $10.

6.Name a plant after yourself and tell it nice things every day.

Choose something that inspires you; an herb in your windowsill, a flower in your garden, a hardy and relentless vine that just won't be tamed? Bonus points to choose one for your children, partner, or friends too.

7.Write yourself a Love note.

…Or multiple notes. Whatever feels good. Get out your best stationery, a beloved journal to keep it safe for your eyes only, or use post-it notes and hide them around your place to discover later.

8.Tell yourself, "I love you."

Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and say, "I love you." Really allow it to wash over you and sink into the feeling. If you're feeling extra bold, go to a mirror and look yourself in the eyes while you say it. Or even direct it to the parts of you're body you don't love just yet.

9.Jot a quick note of appreciation to a coworker, friend, or loved one.

It doesn't have to be long and involved. A simple email, text message, or funny gif to let them know you appreciate and are thinking of them. This one may not seem like it's for you, but as my mother always used to say, "in order to have a friend, you have to be a friend". And that moment of connection will remind yourself that you are surrounded by people you love and who love you too.

10.Create something.

It doesn't have to be elaborate. What is something you used to love as a child? Did you love to draw or create flower crowns? You don't have to be a perfect painter, knitter, or crafter to reap the benefits. Just relax and get creating! You can find all sorts of adult coloring books or free printable pages (some even have beautifully illustrated curse words, teehee). If you're pressed for time, try grabbing some colored pens or pencils to inject some beauty into the things you write every day. The sense of levity and achievement will do wonders for your mood!

OK, so I actually have 11 for you, but round numbers just make better headlines. And what kind of Massage Therapist would I be if I didn't include massage on the list! So here's your bonus.

11.Give yourself a mini massage. Take a deep breath, stretch your shoulders down and back. Maybe clasp your hands behind your back and begin to lift them upwards to give yourself a good stretch. Take five or ten minutes (or even more) to explore your areas of tightness and tension and soothe it away. Or find a fist-sized ball around the house, start with what you have, or begin to experiment with different levels of firmness to find what feels best for you (I really love a Pinky ball which you can pick up at the Dollar Store or even Amazon for just a couple dollars. Keep in mind the firmer the ball, the deeper more precise the massage, but a softer ball gives a more comfortable experience that your body can relax into…and a massage is not effective if your body is unable to relax). You can sit or lay on the ball or use it against a wall. Roll it under your hands or your feet, or get two and lay down with them at the base of your skull (this last one is really great for headaches!) Do whatever feels right for your body; the most important part is to really relax and create a deep sense of appreciation for your body!

I hope this list helps you to shake things up on your life and create a deeper level of care and love for yourself.