This summer probably feels a little wild for everyone. Taking care of ourselves is especially important lately, but it’s not always top-of-mind. That’s why we wanted to share some inspiration for self-care as it relates to our five love languages. Words of affirmation, gifts, acts of service, quality time, and physical touch. 

Here are some ways to think about taking care of yourself, because we all need it!

Quality Time

We know you've spent plenty of quality time with yourself during quarantine, but we're talking about some REAL "me" time. 

• Put on your heels and do your best twerkout to the new Megan Thee Stallion song in the mirror. IG doesn't have to know about it. Just have fun vibing and feeling yourself.

• Take yourself out on a picnic to the park. Don't forget your journal, at LEAST three types of cheese, and a beverage of your choice. Be present with yourself and give gratitude for what makes you, you.

• Pick out a cute outfit, do whatever makes you feel good, and plan a photoshoot just for you. Strike a pose, and post your faves. #NoFilter. Or use all the filters. #NoJudgement

Words of Affirmation

Think about all the times you’ve shown up for your friends when they weren’t feeling their best. Remember all those kind words they needed to hear? Now say it to yourself! 

• Start the day by writing five things you love about yourself and five things you did well yesterday. Celebrate your wins as you would a friend’s! 

• Grab a hairbrush and practice your speech for when you receive that amazing offer, promotion, and recognition. This is your show, and we’re here to listen!

• Create a gratitude and / or words of affirmation jar for when you need a pick-me-up! Positive reminders are sometimes the sweetest treat when you need it most. 

Receiving Gifts

Because let’s be honest, who doesn’t love gifts??

• Treat yourself to that muffin you’ve been eyeing at your local coffee shop. Or maybe change up your coffee order to something a little more special! Vanilla sweet cream cold brew, is that you?

• Change up your scenery, and buy a ticket to see your favorite artist. We’re all getting a little tired of listening to music from our rooms while we work from home anyway. 

• Pick some fresh flowers or new artwork for your home to bring some pep to your living space! Sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest impact. 

Physical Touch

Caring for our bodies has been tough this past year. Sometimes we push off giving our bodies what we need when it feels like too much effort. So let’s keep it simple! 

• Cook an easy and healthy recipe. Search online for one that makes your mouth water or create your own with whatever you have in your fridge! 

• If meditation seems a little foreign to you, take a minute to just breathe. Count to four breathing in, pause, and count to four while breathing out.

• Move your body. Find a way to move that excites you! Dance with the music blasting, walk with a friend and catch up with each other, or practice some new yoga moves. Moving your body can give you the burst of energy you’ve been missing.

Acts of Service 

Take care of yourself AND your future self. Set yourself up for success and relaxation by performing a few acts of service!

• Sunday scaries are real. But they can be better. Cross off a few things on your to-do list on Friday before the weekend hits or on Sunday before the work week gets going. It will help some of your nerves knowing that you’re prepared for the week!

• Decluttering and organizing your space can help clear your mind too. Need some help on where to begin? #MarieKondo 

• You need a break. Do yourself a favor - block out 30 min on your calendar for lunch and a refresh. Be as timely and loyal to this block as you would with any other calendar invite!

We hope this helps you prioritize yourself and practice self-love more frequently.

And remember, we are always learning, growing, and doing our best - you got this!

by Sora Lee