10 Self-Care Ideas To Combat Stress

I am hardly an expert when it comes to self-care. I’m not a psychology major and I didn’t take courses on the subject of taking care of yourself, but I’ve had some pretty big life experiences that have definitely been stressful and anxiety-inducing causing me to find ways to cope.

I have spent a large amount of time looking into new ways that can help alleviate stress because let’s face it, us moms definitely have our hands full. Couple that with work, deadlines, difficult situations and everything else you have piled up, and you have the perfect recipe for stress! I think everyone deals with this differently and for that reason, I have put together my favorite 10 self-care ideas that I have used to help me combat stress and anxiety for Monday Motivation. I hope you find something here that resonates with you and that you try it yourself!

As a mom, I often put myself last in the list of priorities. Sometimes putting yourself first can be beneficial and NEEDED in order to continue to be that badass that you are. Often, a little time to yourself can refresh and recharge you enough to get rid of that looming cloud called stress. So let’s get started……

1. Read Inspirational Quotes

This might sound cheesy or you might be thinking, “Ok, girlfriend, this isn’t going to calm my nerves.” However, for me, this helps tremendously. I literally wake up Monday morning (and several other mornings during the week) get myself an iced coffee and sit on the couch reading my favorite quotes. Not only does this help clear my head, it helps pump me up for the week. I become motivated to get my butt in gear. This is also something that really helped me pull myself out of a bad head space when dealing with the complications from my surgeries. I can’t recommend this tip enough.

2. Meditate 

Sometimes being able to break away for a few minutes by yourself just to deep breathe and sit in silence can be the best therapy for self-care. Have 4 crazy kids running around? Go sit in the dark closet for a few minutes and just be. I am being completely honest when I say I have done this and I have no shame!

3. Go For A Walk

Walking is a great self-care idea to help clear your mind and refresh and focus. I am not a big gym person and I can’t exactly run or jog anymore, so walking is my go to when I need a break. Getting fresh air is important. Find a place you can walk that inspires you like a pretty park, or lake, etc. For me, seeing nature in all its glory really helps.

4. Pamper Yourself 

Ok, ladies, this one is huge in my book. Nothing beats getting your nails done or popping in for a massage. Obviously, when you have a busy schedule, these types of appointments are not always on your radar. However, it’s super important to treat yourself. I purposely drive an hour away to spend the day in the city to get my hair done. Yup, I said it! I sing at the top of my lungs in the car, walk to a French bakery for my coffee and chocolate croissant and then get my hair done for 2 hours. It’s glorious! Now granted, I only do this twice a year, but it’s something I soooo look forward to and makes me happy.

5. Take a Yoga Class

Like ballet, yoga is a great exercise to help get you in tune with your body and mind. Worried to try a class because you are a beginner? Many studios have beginner classes to start in.

6. Find A New Hobby

Have you ever wanted to learn how to sew? Or paint? Anything? Just do it! Whether it’s drawing or gardening, find a hobby you have always wanted to take up and just begin! For me, blogging was a hobby I began to help with the stress over my looming surgeries. Then, it became my way to cope with what happened to me during those surgeries. I am so passionate about blogging and writing for this very reason.

7. Keep A Journal

Writing is a great way to get your thoughts and emotions out on paper. Sometimes, I like to jot things down in my notebook or even my notes app on the iPhone. This has been one of the more powerful ways for me to deal with stress and anxiety thus far.

8. Visualizations

Imagine yourself achieving goals like becoming healthier and more relaxed. Visualize yourself happy and stress free. I know, I know, easier said than done. Did you know, visualizing yourself doing well on certain activities or tasks can actually functions like physical practice? Try it out and let me know how it worked for you!

9. Listen to Music

With being the creative person I am, I love to sing and dance. Whenever I am feeling down or sad, I put my headphones in and listen to my favorite songs. When I was in the hospital, I listened to music most of the time. I chose positive songs about strength and fighting for it to help pump me up. I also put music on when I am doing chores or work and it instantly helps perk me up for the tasks at hand.

10. Get Yourself Organized

This may sometimes feel like a daunting task. Honestly, I DREAD getting organized. However, once it’s done, I instantly feel less stressed out. Pick one area to organize and get to it. Organize something simple like your clothing drawers, or your work desk. Start small and work your way up. Today, I organized all 10 piles of laundry and put the kids clothes in specific drawers. Sure, it will probably be messed up by this time next week, and I’ll have to do it all over again, but for now, it’s organized and I feel great! Decluttering and organizing is not only removing some of those jobs off your full plate, but it helps destress you as well. Heck, put on some music and dance around while you are doing it.

Well, that’s it for Monday Motivation. I hope some of these self-care techniques or ideas help you to be the best version of yourself! Outfit details below!

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Skirt   |   Isolda

Top   |   Reformation

Shoes   |   J. Crew

Straw Backpack   |   Goop $80!

Sunglasses   |   Elizabeth & James

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