Self-care

Try these Self-care rituals.

Self-care should be our top priority. When we do more for ourselves and treat ourselves better, we are more likely to offer more to everything and everyone else around us. Self-care can improve our state of mind and total well-being. A little time for self will offer us a sense of relaxation from stress, anxiety, even depression. It can improve our immune system, help with emotional and mental health, and balance our energy from feeling overly tired. It also reminds us to be kind and compassionate with ourselves and that our needs are important. Self-care is not selfish, it's vital.

I do my best to do a little something for myself everyday. For instance, writing in my journal, working out, practicing yoga and meditation are always top on my list. Even if it's a brief workout, I always try to move my body because it helps balance my moods and helps re-organize my thoughts or clear my mind. During this COVID-19 pandemic, being in quarantine has limited other ways I like to self-care, but it doesn't stop me from preforming my self-care rituals. There are many things we can do at home or outdoors to help us feel we are connecting with ourselves.

Here are some self-care rituals I love to practice. Try them for yourself!

*I always thank myself for showing up for myself. From the minute I wake up in the morning I practice gratitude for being alive and I thank my body in advance for what it will allow me to do that day. The practice of gratitude sets the path for a positive and happy day.

*When I brush my teeth in the morning, I recite a mantra of choice I may need for that day. One of my favorites in the morning is "I am peace, I am happy, I am love." For me, this helps me create a little balance, and often it's the mantra I will use for my morning meditation.

*When I wash my face (both morning and night), I do so taking my time as I apply the cleanser massaging my face in circular motions. Not only is it good for my face to receive a good wash, but it helps my face wake up and plump up. I also look at myself in the mirror and offer myself loving and kind words. I notice everything about my face and body and speak kindness even to those areas I might find imperfect, yet perfect because they're mine.

*I love to sit with nature. I often sit outside and look upward to the sky. I notice everything around me - the trees, the flowers, the birds, the squirrels, chipmunks, even the insects. I take a moment to thank the universe for offering us such beauty. I close my eyes and take a few deep breaths as I take in the sweet sounds of nature. This helps me calm my mind and re-calibrate or re-connect with myself.

*Home Spas are by favorites. My daughters and I will enjoy a full day of hair treatments, face masks, manicure/pedicures, creating new nail designs with nail polish, and massaging our legs with beautifully scented body oils. Even 30-60 minutes of this and you'll feel like you were at an actual spa, even if you did it all yourself.

*There's nothing like a nice hot bath; it's one of my most favorite things to do. There are times I add sea salts, essential oils, healing crystals, flowers even fruits. To create an zenful atmosphere, I light candles, some soft background music, I dim the lights and I am off to a different place in my mind. Nothing can be more relaxing.

*I love to read. Sitting outside or in a comfy spot somewhere in my house with a good book is always one of my greatest pleasures. And when we're able to get back out, going to a book store or the library is where you can often find me just sitting back and enjoying the latest magazines or skimming through wellness books. I also love to just walk in the mall. I'll often go even if I'm not shopping. I'll grab a nice cup of coffee from the cafe' and just walk around. Of course, there are many times I'll treat myself to a nice little shopping spree.

*While I love to do my own hair, I do enjoy going to the salon and getting my hair thoroughly washed and conditioned, even if I don't need a hair trim. Just being in an environment where everyone's there offering themselves self-care inspires me to continue to come back for more. These treatments aren't expensive and very much worth it.

*I'm a Reiki Master, therefore I can practice Reiki on myself. This energy healing practice helps me balance my chakras and the energy within myself. There are often times, I'll go to my mentor and she'll practice on me instead. To learn more on Reiki, go to our Body, Mind, Spirit, Balance page or contact me at info@liyalifeco.com.

*Have you received a love letter lately? Write yourself one! And I'm not kidding!! Find beautiful stationary or card and write yourself what you'd like to hear someone else say to you. Then reread it to yourself. If you'd like to take it one step further, mail it to yourself. You'll be surprised how those magical words can affect you in a positive way.

Remember, the point is to do things that will help you feel good all the time so you can make yourself happy. The happier you are, the better you will be for others.

Thanks for stopping by! Always sending you lots of Love and Light.

xo Maritza