I will be the first to admit that I tend to spread myself too thin sometimes to the point where I’m supremely overwhelmed. Then I end up mad at myself for taking on too much where I can’t sit back and enjoy a favorite tv show or catch up on a chapter of a good book. To give you a rundown, a typical week for me is filled with a 2-hour commute to and from work daily (sometimes more – depending on traffic), dinner preparation, clothes washing, taking on clients, project, travels, amongst other things. When I look up, it’s time to go to bed. Talk about anxiety! All work and no play makes for a grouchy young lady! I can’t be a help to anyone unless I help my own self.
Can I be real with you for a moment? If I’m not doing something, I feel bad. Seriously! When you’ve worked so hard in life, the last you want anyone to call you is “lazy”. However, when you try to do everything, it can cause extreme stress if you’re not careful. As a woman, it’s sincerely important to take care of your health and find a balance that works for your lifestyle. So what does all this mean? Well since this is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let’s talk the facts. A study has shown that stress & anxiety has been linked to aggressive forms of breast cancer. So to stay healthy, I’ve created a list of 10 things I’m planning to do to help recharge my batteries and lower my risk of getting sick or worse.
–Turn off all electronics and spend time with yourself.
If it’s not the iPad, it’s the iPhone, or the Mac, or the email, or the phone ringing, or…okay, you get it. It’s okay to unplug yourself from the world sometimes.
–Catch up on a good book or record a few of your favorite shows, even if it’s just one, and watch unapologetically.
This is one of my favorite things to do, and yet, I can’t seem to relax or enjoy doing them without feeling guilty or selfish. This is something I’m promising myself I can do.
–Watch a movie a funny that’s bound to make you laugh and/or cry.
Sometimes a good cry is necessary to help you feel better. One of my favorite movies to watch and cry to is the original ‘Steel Magnolias’. A box of tissues and a glass of wine and I’m set!
–Bring the spa to you
Create your own spa basket with your favorite scented bath salts, lotions, and candles. Use those “good towels” that are super soft and fluffy for a more luxurious feel. After the setup, take a nice, hot bubble bath!
–Get out!
Get out of the house & enjoy some fresh air! It’s understandable that we don’t want to stop to take a break, especially when we’re on a roll. I do this all the time. I’m challenging myself to get out doors and take a quick walk and enjoy a little sunshine or take a little drive around the city.
–Buy yourself some flowers.
You may call it cheesy, but don’t expect someone to love you without loving yourself first. Love my honey, but I can’t expect a fresh bouquet weekly waiting for me. I haven’t taken the time out to do this for myself in a while. It’s okay to take care of yourself too!
Tip: Put them in a place where you will always notice them to remind yourself of what a wonderful woman you are! You deserve it!
–Plan to Relax
I had to schedule everything, from meals to days I’m washing clothes. Before I knew it, the schedule was filled with domestic duties and no time to recharge and relax. So I’m scheduling one weekend a month as a “free” weekend to do what I would like. Sometimes we gripe about not having enough time. The trick is to make the time.
Tip: If your family is dependent on you for food to eat or activities, then engage in something fun together. Make a homemade pizza and watch movies, clean up before your free weekend, or take a drive together. Just make sure you incorporate something you enjoy in the mix so you can enjoy the rest.
–Set the Scene
I’m a sucker for a relaxing atmosphere. I love to have candles burning, the lights low, and some chill music playing. Instead of letting the TV entertain me, I let my senses enjoy the surroundings. Tip: Buy some vanilla scented candles, create a playlist on Spotify, –
–Exercise…no, for real.
I’ve told you before I don’t like to exercise, simply because I know I’m doing it. However, activities like yoga or tai chi are a fun and relaxing ways to de-stress and get exercise, as well. I plan to get back involved on the mat.
For those that like high-impact workouts to de-stress, go for the weights or the boxing bag! Sweat it out! Exercise has been proven to lower stress levels.
–Make it a Girl’s Night!
Whether you’re inviting girls over or meeting them at a restaurant, find time to meet with girlfriends to chat and catch up. I’m definitely taking on the challenge to do this more often. It’s an easy way to getaway!
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