No matter how good we are at delegating, juggling and prioritizing, we can all fall victim to an overloaded schedule where things can go off the rails.
That’s usually when self-care falls to the bottom of our priority list. You’re far too busy putting out fires and meeting everyone else’s needs to take time for yourself.
But that’s exactly the time when you should put yourself at the top of the list. Remember what the flight attendants say about oxygen masks: If you are travelling with a child or someone who requires assistance, secure your mask on first, and then assist the other person.
Basically, take time for yourself first so you are strong enough, healthy enough and capable enough to take care of everything else.
Self-care is more than pampering
It’s important to remember that self-care goes beyond bubble baths, bon bons or setting aside some personal time.
Sometimes it’s about doing the prep work to create a space where you are able to relax or taking steps that will make the rest of your life run more smoothly or making smart choices about what you put into your body.
Here are four ways to take time for yourself. At first glance, they may not seem self-indulgent, but their effects will set you up for self-care success in more ways than one.
1. Take care of your space
It’s hard to find Zen amid clutter and chaos, let alone focus on your to-do list. A tidy space is even more important for those of us working from home where the two worlds can collide in a perfect storm of discouragement.
Next time you need a mental break from work, instead of scrolling on your phone or grabbing that likely not-so-healthy snack, make a list of cleaning and tidying tasks that can be done in 15 minutes or less and tackle one.
Keep supplies handy, like Amway Home™ L.O.C.™ Multi-Purpose Wipes or a rag plus Amway Home™ L.O.C.™ Multi-Purpose Cleaner, so you can immediately get to work and get the job done.
A clean kitchen counter, a sparkling coffee table, a spatter-free bathroom sink and mirror, 10-minute tidy that clears the clutter, a quick load of laundry – it all sets you up to thoroughly enjoy the next time you sit on your couch with your favorite drink or treat yourself to a mini spa treatment.
2. Simplify your cooking
Face it, all tasks are easier and more enjoyable when you have the right tools to do them properly. Cooking is no different. Since many of us are spending more time in our own kitchens rather than enjoying the treat of dining out, anything that can make that process easier is a form of self-care.
Quality nonstick cookware fits that bill. You’re much more likely to enjoy cooking or try new recipes if they don’t come with strenuous cleaning or scrubbing afterward. Especially after a long day of work. Amway iCook™ Nonstick Cookware eliminates that concern.
Not only does it make sautéing or frying an easy, no-mess breeze, the clean-up takes only minutes. Plus, for those wanting to reduce their fat intake, the nonstick coating system releases the food super easily, which means you need very little oil for cooking.
Just one more way to make your life easier, giving you more opportunities to take time for yourself.
3. Nourish your body
When your to-do list seems endless and the deadlines are piling on, it’s easy to try to subside on convenience snacks, frozen dinners or fast food takeout. But those types of foods do more to feed your immediate hunger pangs than to prepare your body to get things done.
Without a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, you might feel sluggish and not have the energy you need. You also might not be getting the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients you need for a healthy foundation. But eating right doesn’t have to take a lot of time.
Smoothies are a great way to quickly boost your fruit and vegetable intake without much effort. And adding a lean protein, such as Nutrilite™ Organics Plant Protein Powder or XS™ Protein Pods, is an easy way to add that key nutrient to your smoothies.
4. Take care of your skin
Did you know your skin is your body’s largest organ? While many of us focus our skincare efforts on our face, the rest of your body could use some attention, too. Adding regular body skin care to your weekly routines is another way to take time for yourself without disrupting the rest of your schedule.
And that all-over body care will make you feel clean, refreshed and ready to work or play. Wondering where to start?
The Artistry Signature Select™ Body Collection is formulated to address five different body skin concerns. It features a purifying cleanser, polishing scrub, hydrating gel, brightening cream and firming lotion. Plus, they are infused with phytonutrients your most nourished, glowing skin yet.
Incorporate any or all of these to your life and see how much better you feel when you are getting things done while also taking time for yourself!
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