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!
[outfit-details]
Skirt | Isolda
Top | Reformation
Shoes | J. Crew
Straw Backpack | Goop $80!
Sunglasses | Elizabeth & James
[/outfit-details]
About The Author
April
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•Preheat oven 400 (this bakes approximately 15 min)
•2 sheets Puff Pastry
•1 egg yolk and 1 egg (for egg wash)
•1 8oz package cream cheese
•1/2 cup sugar
•1 tsp vanilla extract
•10-12 strawberries
Preheat oven to 400 (this will bake for approx. 15 min) Use a heart cookie cutter to cut out your puff pastry hearts and then use a knife to trace a heart into them. Brush on egg wash and set aside. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, vanilla, egg yolk and sugar. Add the cheese mixture to your little hearts (only spreading it up to the line you scored). Add fresh sliced strawberries and bake for 15-20 min! This is SO EASY AND SOOOOO GOOD! #recipeoftheday #danish #dessertrecipe #brunchrecipe #recipereel
SAVE AND SHARE THIS RECIPE! This recipe, by far, was a follower favorite last year! So so easy and omg so good! It’s a great brunch #recipe or dessert!
•store bought puff pastry
•raspberries or raspberry jam (I like fresh fruit better)
•6-8 oz of cream cheese
• 1/2 cup sugar
•1 tsp vanilla extract
•1 egg YOLK only
•powdered sugar
•sliced almonds
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Roll out your puff pastry and cut slices down each side (approximately 1 inch) leaving the center intact and set aside. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, egg and vanilla extract. Place the cheese mixture in the center of your puff pastry ( you may have extra leftover). Sprinkle fresh raspberries on top of the cheese. Fold each side of puff pastry one at a time in a lattice pattern. Brush some egg wash on top. Bake for 25 minutes. Sprinkle powdered sugar and fresh almonds on top for the finishing touch.
This is perfect for Valentines Day and I dare you to try it! #RECIPE #easyrecipe #recipeshare #brunchrecipe #dessert #recipereels
SAVE AND SHARE MY MOST VIEWED RECIPE! This is one of my favorite and most watched recipes and for good reason! My Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake is SOOOO easy to make and perfect for brunch! This can also be frozen and eaten later!
Don’t take my word for it...make it and let me know how fast it was devoured.
•4 large croissants
12-16 oz of cubed ham
•6 oz of shredded gruyere cheese
•6 oz of shredded cheddar cheese
•1/2 cup chopped chives
•6 eggs
•1 cup half and half
•1 tsp. honey
•1 tsp. Dijon mustard
•salt and pepper
Preheat your oven to 375. In a baking dish (spray with non stick spray) add in croissants, ham, cheese and chives. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, honey, mustard and salt and pepper.
Pour the egg mixture over the bake and press down with a fork. Cover with foil and bake for approximately 50 min. This is such a great family recipe and feeds a good amount of people. So before ya come for me with how much cheese is used ( remember that!
#easyrecipe #breakfastfordinner #recipereels #easterbrunch #brunchrecipes
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•clover cookie cutter
•puff pastry sheet
•Dijon mustard
•Swiss cheese
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•egg for egg wash
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Use your cookie cutter on the puff pastry. Smear a good amount of Dijon mustard on half of them. Add the corned beef and cheese. Place the puff pastry on top like a sandwich. Using a fork, press down around each clover. Brush egg wash over and poke 4 little holes in the top. Bake in the oven for approximately 20 minutes. These are SOOOO YUMMY and quite a hit in our home! The kids love them! #puffpastry #cornedbeef #easyrecipe
I just binge watched Renovation Aloha and now I NEED another trip to Hawaii. It doesn’t look like it’s in the cards for us this year with Emma going to Boston for singing (we are tagging along for the last week). Buuuutttt, if we were to go……Which is your favorite and why? Big Island or Kauai? We’ve already been to Oahu and Maui and I love each of them for different reasons. PS, I painted all my doors in the house blue on a whim and I think I love them 💙
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Today was spent cleaning the kitchen, painting the wood countertops for our built-ins, laundry and changed all the air purifier filters. Happy Monday! #hydrangea #blueandwhite #blueandwhiteforever
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SAVE AND SHARE MY MOST VIEWED RECIPE! This is one of my favorite and most watched recipes and for good reason! My Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake is SOOOO easy to make and perfect for brunch! This can also be frozen and eaten later!
Don’t take my word for it...make it and let me know how fast it was devoured.
•4 large croissants
12-16 oz of cubed ham
•6 oz of shredded gruyere cheese
•6 oz of shredded cheddar cheese
•1/2 cup chopped chives
•6 eggs
•1 cup half and half
•1 tsp. honey
•1 tsp. Dijon mustard
•salt and pepper
Preheat your oven to 375. In a baking dish (spray with non stick spray) add in croissants, ham, cheese and chives. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, honey, mustard and salt and pepper.
Pour the egg mixture over the bake and press down with a fork. Cover with foil and bake for approximately 50 min. This is such a great family recipe and feeds a good amount of people. So before ya come for me with how much cheese is used ( remember that!
#easyrecipe #breakfastfordinner #recipereels
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SAVE AND SHARE THIS POST! Check out my Strawberry Cheese Heary Pastries! Perfect for that #galentinesday brunch or for dessert with your loved ones. So yummy and the perfect serving size!
•Preheat oven 400 (this bakes approximately 15 min)
•2 sheets Puff Pastry
•1 egg yolk and 1 egg (for egg wash)
•1 8oz package cream cheese
•1/2 cup sugar
•1 tsp vanilla extract
•10-12 strawberries
Preheat oven to 400 (this will bake for approx. 15 min) Use a heart cookie cutter to cut out your puff pastry hearts and then use a knife to trace a heart into them. Brush on egg wash and set aside. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, vanilla, egg yolk and sugar. Add the cheese mixture to your little hearts (only spreading it up to the line you scored). Add fresh sliced strawberries and bake for 15-20 min! This is SO EASY AND SOOOOO GOOD! #recipeshare #recipereel #valentinesday
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Cris| 13th Aug 18
Love this post! I am feeling so stressed out lately! I will definitely use some of your tips!
chioma| 13th Aug 18
great tips to combat stress. I love the fact your mentioned #6 find a new hobby this has really helped me alot. your pictures are so gorgeous
Angela| 13th Aug 18
Beautiful post!
Ashh G| 13th Aug 18
Great Monday motivation tips. I have seen yoga uplift my mood plus it provides better shape to body and refreshes mind. I have however lost mojo for yoga but I have found my hobby and it keeps me busy and motivated.
Kristi @ Way Beyond The Norm| 14th Aug 18
Great tips! I do most of these, but the one that’s next on my list to start is a journal. I hated having to do a journal back in junior high for one of my classes, but now I really want to start doing it. It can really alleviate stress AND get your creative juices flowing at the same time.
GiGi Eats| 14th Aug 18
It’s rare that I ever need to combat stress, but when I do – I know I need to re-treat into my save haven and remind myself that EVERYTHING will be okay! These are some great tips 🙂
Jamie| 14th Aug 18
What a great way to start a Monday! I like starting mine with some inspo and quotes are great! I love your outfit too babe! Good post!
Travel With A SIlver Lining| 14th Aug 18
great tips, i love that skirt!
Kesi| 14th Aug 18
Cute pictures! I love all things and promotions of self care! You have to take care of yourself.. great suggestions on different ways to do this!
Nikki Hall| 14th Aug 18
These are all great tips!!! I love pampering myself and trying new things!!
Ruxandra| 16th Aug 18
Love these ideas! Much needed for myself. I usually do a small skincare routine.
Kasia| 16th Aug 18
These are great tips. I definitely get stressed out but I’ve been trying to combat that. I need to look into meditation.
fashNcurious| 16th Aug 18
Such great tips April! Love them
Michelle| 30th Aug 18
These are some great tips April! I love taking my dogs out for long walks to de-stress!
Monika| 30th Aug 18
April, great tips. I do get so stressed at times, more often than I would like to. It’s just how busy our lives are nowadays. Thanks for sharing these!
kelly tupick | 5th Sep 18
These tips are great. I love taking my dog for a walk, it’s relaxing to me and just getting the fresh air in my face puts me at ease.
Babette | 5th Sep 18
Hi April,
Thanks for sharing this! I think of all the tips you gave getting myself organized is important to lower my level of stress! I get so overwhelmed! These reminders are so important to lower our stress.
Sean C | 22nd Sep 18
Love all your ideas to combat stress. My top favorites are – go for a walk, visualization and pamper yourself. As a whole, we are so busy doing a myriad of tasks that we often forget to stop and smell the flowers. So, breathing and just going to a stroll is amazing. Also, we forget to pamper ourselves often because we are busy taking care of others.