My Self-Care Habits

Over the past two years, I really got into discovering what self-care means. Self-care is 100% you. It’s a bunch of choices and actions that is self-initiated and ultimately makes you feel good.

Oftentimes when I’d get sick, I’d tell myself, “Okay after this cold, I’m going to drink more water and eat my veggies” or “I’m going to listen to my body and get some rest.” It’s usually when I’m at this low point, I tell myself I’m really going to take care of myself. Over time, I found myself doing the same thing over, thus I wasn’t making any positive changes in my life. Now, I’m aware of my unhealthy habits and started self-care habits that are a part of my daily routine. 

Remember, it’s never too late to start a new habit. It begins with you!

Here are some of my self-care habits. Leave me a comment if you have any questions. I’d also love to hear what some of your self-care habits are. 🙂

1. Get moving

Moving my body and getting a sweat on is my favorite self-care habit. Movement is so important because a) I believe my body was meant to move, b) I work a desk job so a big chunk of the day is spent sitting and c) no one ever says they regret working out.

Movement can mean a lot of things. Some days I’m at the gym lifting weights. Some days it’s just running on the treadmill or walking my dog. Other days I might want a slower pace and practice yoga or take a hike. I’m awake about 18 hours a day and work 8 hours. I can afford to spend at least 1 hour exercising because what’s the harm? Through this habit, I’m always learning and growing, physically and mentally.

2. Have a skincare routine

Growing up, I remember watching my mom use so many different products and she was so into it. I thought it looked rather tedious. I really didn’t understand her at the time, but now I do! I invest so much into my skincare routine because it’s an investment…in me! What better investment is there? Skincare is something that lasts and will always benefit you. It is the largest organ on your skin so it’s important to protect, nurture and care for it. I think if you can prevent something, why not take action sooner than later? For example, I wear sunscreen every day to reduce dark spots and early signs of wrinkles. If this small preventive action can save my skin (takes less than 30 seconds) when I get older, then why not?

Here’s a current list of products I am using. Also listed in the order of application.
1. Toner:  Son & Park Beauty Water
2. Essence: SK-II Facial Treatment
3. Eye cream: Laneige Water Bank
4. Moisturizer: Primary Raw DoYou Azulene Gel Cream – Love this gel cream for the summer! My skin really glows in the morning. 
5. Mask: Youth to the People Age Prevention Superfood

3. Drink Water

I’ll drink a glass of water first thing in the morning. I’m that person always carrying my Hydroflask with me and always that person asking for several refills at dinner. I aim for a gallon a day because I sweat sooo much during my workouts. It’s no joke!

No one is ever going to tell you to stop drinking water. But they will tell you to stop drinking soda. I think it’s important to start this habit early so when you’re older, it’s more of a personal choice rather than something you ought to do. 

At first, it was difficult to drink a gallon of water. I remember I felt super bloated and wanted to stop drinking. But my body got used to all the water and eventually the bloat went away. Trust me, it will go away! When you introduce something new to your body, it will take awhile to adjust or to notice changes. Be patient with yourself.

4. Organize

Every few months, I will set aside time to organize my room, closet and bathroom. I make sure that all my belongings have a purpose and make me happy. Sounds kind of cheesy, but I really believe in surrounding yourself with not only people, but things that make you feel good. *Cues KonMari method* My general rule is if I haven’t used or worn it within the past year, it goes. I haven’t looked back. This self-care habit has taught me it’s okay to let things go and not to feel bad about it.