We spend so much time doing things we’re OBLIGATED to do- but we often forget to take the time to take care of ourselves. We’ve compiled a list of 10 ways to practice self care this year so you can be the best version of YOU that you can be!
1. Do something that makes you happy everyday.
It’s OK to be selfish. Do one thing everyday that makes YOU happy. It can be as simple as going to the gym or listening to a podcast you love- you just gotta DO it.
2. Fuel yourself with good, whole foods.
Food is fuel- and you wouldn’t put poor quality products on your face, so why would you put them in your body? Try to incorporate more foods in your diet that make you feel good on the inside. Eating healthy foods can be delicious, and gives you way more energy than snacking on a bag of chips. Don't have time for a healthy meal prep? Grab your fav Flat Tummy vegan protein shake for a quick and healthy boost!
3. Don’t be afraid to say NO sometimes.
And we don’t mean saying no to things you love- only to things that won’t benefit you. Learning to say no can be hard, but it’s an important part of self care. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s best to take time for yourself to rejuvenate. Saying YES to everything can be draining and can lead to burnout.
4. Get outside everyday.
Girl, get some fresh air! Seriously. There are so many benefits- spending time outside can help to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even help you disconnect for a little while. Another benefit? You’ll probably fall asleep easier.
5. Spend time with people who make you happy.
Seriously- it’s harder than it sounds! Studies have shown that you're the average combination of the 5 people you spend the most time with. Meaning, you literally ARE who you hang with! Crazy right?! We all have people in our life who don’t bring us joy. Point blank, if being around someone feels draining, it’s OKAY to cut them out, because you are who you surround yourself with.
6. Don’t be afraid to treat yo-self sometimes.
You work hard, girl, and you deserve it! No one’s saying you need to go over the top, but it’s OKAY to treat yourself to something you wouldn't normally! So, go ahead, order those hot pink workout accessories, make that fancy dinner reso, get a manicure or a massage, you’re WORTH IT!
7. Take a social media break.
Social media can be so overwhelming, and EVERYONE needs a break sometimes. You don’t have to be aggressive and delete all of your accounts. Try disabling push notifications, or putting your phone on do not disturb, it can do wonders for your mental health- especially at night & before bed.
8. Keep track of your accomplishments.
Super basic, right?! We’re often looking so far forward that we don’t take time to recognize how far we’ve come. Keeping track of your accomplishments, and crossing them off as they happen is a great way to track your progress! Which is why we incorporated our progress tracker into our own Flat Tummy App! It helps you to appreciate the little things, and it might even give you a little confidence boost.
9. Express your gratitude.
Expressing your thanks and appreciating your surroundings can help you shift to a more positive mindset. It can also help you to recognize and acknowledge the little things. It’s so important to take time to be thankful for what we have, and those around us.
10. Just take care of yourself.
We know- it seems super simple. The truth is, self care isn’t always glamorous. This is your reminder to get sh*t done. The stuff you want to do, and the stuff you need to do. Simple things like decluttering, doing your laundry, cleaning your room, and taking a bath at the end of the day can do wonders for your mental health. No better way to take care of yourself than taking care of your space!
So, while it’s easy to re-schedule, cancel, and make excuses, it’s time to take yourself OFF the back-burner and put yourself FIRST. We’re not going to let you settle, babe… and no one’s looking out for you more than yourself- except maybe us! So, now it's time to focus on you & those nutrition and fitness goals you set last month, because January is over, but we're just getting started!
