As 2020 comes to a close, we're all letting out a sigh of relief. The entire world experienced a year like no other before, where feelings of anxiety and overwhelm became common reactions to the events occurring every day. If you're feeling ready for a much-needed breather to decompress after a year of changes, we're here for you. Practicing self-care helps alleviate stress and allows us to take a moment out of our busy schedules to prioritize our mental health, which is important now more than ever. Here are some easy ways to include self care into your routine while staying eco-conscious!
1. Take a walk.
Nothing beats some fresh air. Especially after a year where we spent more time inside than ever. Prioritize 30 minutes out of your day to walk with no end destination in sight and see where your feet and mind take you. You can listen to the sounds of your environment or put your headphones in and listen to your favorite music or podcast and zone out.
2. Make your own vegan hair and face mask.
Throw on a face mask, lather your hair, and pour yourself a glass of wine or cup of tea. Whatever your jam is. Treating your skin and hair right are major self-care contenders. Not only does this give you 15-20 minutes to just chill out while the masks work their magic, but they will also have you looking great too. Check out these DIY recipes for hair and face masks.
3. Meditate.
All you need is yourself and a comfortable spot in your home. There is no shortage of resources out there with guided meditation options for everyone. Practice mindfulness and ground yourself with any of these free apps here.
4. Plant a mini garden.
Gardening is an activity that can help ground you and will also hold you accountable. It's always a good thing to be able to take care of another living thing and starting with plants is an easy way to get involved. All you need is some outdoor space (a small balcony or even a window sill that gets plenty of sunshine will do if you don't have a yard) and pick out herbs, plants, vegetables, and fruits that work for your conditions. Tending to your garden will become a therapeutic ritual that also benefits the planet and lessens your impact on the environment.
5. Journal!
Putting pen to paper is a very moving experience that can drastically help with processing thoughts and emotions. Check out these sustainable journals.
6. Get involved in volunteer work.
Volunteering for a good cause can be a very fulfilling way to practice self-care. Sometimes all you need is to give back and help someone else out to boost your mood and with so many in need this year, there are plenty of organizations to support in ways that align with your values. Here are some options we love: No Kid Hungry, Oceana, and Give Essential.
7. Take a hot bath.
A hot bath can be a very calming and soothing sensory experience. Add some DIY bath bombs and bath salts to spark an aroma and light some soy candles for added relaxation. Not only will this be a relaxing experience for your mind, but a hot bath will also help smooth your skin, improve blood flow, and boost metabolism.
8. Make your own tea.
Grab your favorite herbs, flowers, and spices and get creative with making your own tea. Blending tea is super easy and allows you to personalize what you're drinking right there in your kitchen. Here are some recipes.