Now more than ever before, we are constantly shown how profoundly important it is to exercise self-care and protect your emotional and physical health. As the current health situation continues to destroy our former sense of ordinary life and our quarantined and social-distanced days endure, it’s never been more apparent how critical self-care is. Squeezing in “me time” almost comes with the territory of mandated self-isolation, but when’s the last time you truly sat with yourself, and felt at ease in your body, with your mind, and in your space?
“Me time” is not at all solely reserved for spa days or other expensive activities — “me time” can happen within the comfort of your own home, and totally free of cost, too. Using the following tips, we’ll guide you through how you can begin to relax and recharge your mind and body with some much needed “me time” ideas.
Idea #1: Read a Classic Novel
If you’re looking to escape the stress of your reality but can’t step out of the door without feeling overwhelmed by the threat of the novel coronavirus? Take a step outside of your life and hop into a good book. Walking in the footsteps of a classic novel protagonist may be the des-stressing remedy you need in your life. Experience all of the romance, horror, suspense, mystery and more, all within the pages of a book (or e-book, if you prefer).
Stock up on these classic tales:
- Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
- Through the Ivory Gate by Rita Dove
- 1984 by George Orwell
- Not Without Laughter by Langston Hughes
- Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison
Idea #2: Introduce Yourself to Stress-Relief Products
Although it might feel like it, you’re not alone living in a state of heightened stress day in and day out. Many people, just like you, are finding it difficult to cope with the stress of the “new normal” amidst the current health situation. Fortunately, there are a number of viable avenues you can venture down when it comes to stress-relief products specifically designed to alleviate some of that anxiety.
Here are a few of our favorite products you can try to help manage your stress:
- CBD oil
- Lavender-scented pillow spray
- Meditation apps
- Weighted blankets
Idea #3: Watch a Movie
In response to the outbreak of the coronavirus and the closing of public movie theaters, new movie releases have all but come to a stop. While it may be a sad reality knowing nothing new will grace your eyes or ears, there’s no time like the present to watch (or rewatch) some classic flicks. Create your own personal movie theater by gearing up with an affordable projector, choosing your preferred subscription service, and getting lost in cinematic beauty.
If you’re the type who flips through movie selection lists for hours on end, we’re here to help narrow down your search. Check out these must-see movies:
- Inception
- Get Out
- Avatar
- Hamilton
- Fight Club
- Parasite
- The Princess and the Frog
Idea #4: Create an Indoor Garden
Believe it or not, you don’t need to have a green thumb in order to create your own indoor garden. In fact, creating an indoor garden is a fun “me time” that can also be extremely rewarding once your seedlings turn into sprouts and finally into full grown plants. Who knows— watching your little seeds grow may be the spark of newness and growth you need in your life during these surreal times.
There are a vast array of plant types that you can grow inside so long as you water them regularly, and make sure they have plenty of sunlight.
Try out these novice-friendly edible plants you can begin growing in your own bedroom:
- Bok choy
- Microgreens
- Mushrooms
- Carrots
- Lettuce
- Scallions
- Dwarf beans
- Kale
Idea #5: Find your Signature Cocktail
When cooped up at home and struck down with cabin fever, you may find yourself more in need of a drink than ever. When tensions are high and you need an excuse to indulge in a little something to take the edge off (in moderation, of course), a delicious homemade cocktail is always a good idea. Stock up on your favorite liquors, garnishes, fruits, and more to start experimenting and creating your very own signature cocktail.
Wrapping Up
By putting these tips into practice, you can take back some control in your life and reduce the impact of stress on your overall well-being. Once you do, you’ll be wondering how you ever lived how you did before.
