If you've recently had a week that felt never ending, I'm right there with you. You know the kind of week that seems to last for two weeks, and is so busy that you forget to even brush your hair? For a combination of reasons, last week was hectic, and very challenging. To add to everything else I had going on, I didn't feel exceptionally well either, which made things ten times harder. But, after a week like this is when I stop and realize that I need to take care of myself first. So, if you've fallen off the wagon of self care, then let's hop back on together. I'm talking about the small things, putting yourself first in the most basic ways that I seem to forget to do during busy weeks. So, here are 5 things that I will be doing to put myself first, and take care of myself. Treat yourself like a plant, get sunlight, and water. :)
1. Drink water.
This week I forgot to drink enough water, so now I'm drinking water like a fish. Seriously, this is something that is so simple to do, and it makes the biggest difference in your skin, energy, and overall appearance. Just keep a water bottle with you, and drink water with every meal, because you need it after any stressful week.
2. Eat vegetables, fruits and nutritious foods.
Usually when we're busy we tend to eat what is convenient, and what is easy. But it is important to recharge your body with good food, and eat vegetables like carrots. Take time to plan what you're going to eat, and snack on healthy things like nuts, and celery. Again, a simple change that has a huge impact on life after a crazy week. During the school week I find that my life is easier if I pack snacks the night before, so that I don't forget in the morning. This way, you can have a healthy and nutritious lunch without prep time in the morning.
3. Get sleep and exercise.
During a busy week you probably miss out on some very important hours of sleep. So, during the weekend it is key to get to bed early, and get enough sleep. While you're sleeping is when your body repairs itself, so sleeping a normal amount on the weekend instead of staying up until midnight will make you feel amazing. Also, throughout the week it's easy to forget to stretch and exercise, but this is important to every aspect of health. So, carve out even a small amount of time to exercise, and stick to it.
4. Take time to do something you like.
During a recovery time from a difficult week, don't forget to do something you like, or something that makes you feel good. So, feel free to catch up on some Keeping Up with the Kardashian in your pajamas, or bakes cookies and watch Youtube videos. Do something that makes your soul happy, and makes the hectic work weeks worth it!
5. Be comfortable.
For me, after a busy week, I love coming home and putting on sweats. I love being comfortable and being warm, so don't forget to do this during the week as well. I know that sometimes I look at the clock and it's suddenly 6 p.m., dark in my room, and I'm still wearing jeans and a jacket. So, if you're feeling stressed, make comfort a priority. In general you should wear clothes that make you happy, and be comfortable when you can be.
I hope that you remember to take care of yourself this week, because you're worth it. :)