10 Ways to Practice Self-Care

Life is stressful, and that stress oftentimes takes away your energy and creates anxiety or negative thoughts. One way to alleviate the stress is to take time to care for yourself. "Self-care" looks different for everyone. For some, it's as simple as lighting a candle and listening to calming music. For others, physical exercise relieves the stress. I created a list of 10 ways that I like to practice self-care:

1. Create a vision board

A "vision board" is a collage of images or words that represent your wishes or goals. The purpose of this collage is to create motivation or inspiration in your life. Personally, I have a physical board in my room with quotes, bible verses, and images that inspire me. I also have a board on Pinterest named "Inspo" with images that encourage and motivate me.

2. Watch your favorite movie

It may seem silly, but watching your favorite movie should always put you in a good mood. For me, watching the movie "Breakfast at Tiffany's" always puts me in a better mood. I love Audrey Hepburn, so honestly any of her movies are on my list of favorite movies.

3. Give yourself a mani-pedi

Something about having a fresh manicure and pedicure just makes me feel brand new. Whether you have professionals paint your nails or you paint them yourself at home, treat yourself with freshly painted nails.

4. Relaxing yoga or an empowering workout

While exercise may not be everyone's go-to self care method, it helps release endorphins which trigger a positive feeling in the body. So, no matter what kind of exercise you prefer, whether it's yoga, cardio or weightlifting, you are replacing those negative feelings with positive ones!

5. Bath bomb and face mask

This self-care method may seem a little cliché, but sometimes all you really need is a nice bubble bath and face mask. Clean skin can certainly make you feel better, especially after a long, stressful day.

6. Unplug from technology

Quite a lot of our stress is caused by the overuse of technology. A great way to take time for yourself is to simply put away all technology for a period of time. Take that time to rest and clear your mind. I know that social media takes up a lot of my time, so when I find myself feeling overwhelmed, I put down my phone. Focusing less on technology gives you more time to focus on yourself.

7. Burn your favorite candle

This self-care method also seems so simple; however, burning your favorite candle and enjoying the pleasant scent and aesthetic gives you a sense of peace. Personally, I love Bath and Body Works candles, so I always have one in my room. My favorite way to wind down after a long day is to light my favorite candle, get in bed, and watch some Netflix.

8. Declutter

One huge stressor for me is clutter. I have a hard time feeling calm and positive if my work space or living space is a mess. When I take the time to clean and organize, I feel less stressed. Decluttering your work space, living space, or even your mind removes stress and gives you a positive, clean slate.

9. Make a list of things you love about yourself

Self-care means simply caring for yourself. It does not mean receiving affirmation from others; it means receiving affirmation from yourself. This method always helps me when I feel down about myself. Creating a list of things you love about yourself makes you feel special, loved, and appreciated.

10. Slow down and be present

This method isn't as simple as lighting a candle or taking a bubble bath. Slowing down and being present is mental. It means putting aside all stressors (work, home, other people), and simply just being. Clear your mind, take deep breaths, and focus on yourself.

Self-care is very personal and doesn't look the same for everyone. These are just ten ways to practice self-care that I find work best for me. It doesn't matter how you release stress and create a positive mind and environment, it just matters that you take the time to do it.

What are some of the ways you practice self-care? Comment your favorite self-care techniques below!