Self-Care On-The-Go! 3 Simple Techniques to Love on Yourself in 30 Seconds or Less!
I don’t know about you, but when I think of "self-care," my mind immediately drifts to bubble baths, massages and exotic vacations. While those are amazing, let’s be real: most of us don’t have time for daily indulgences like that. In today’s fast-paced world, self-care can start to feel like yet another task on our never ending to-do lists. Instead of an opportunity to slow down, it becomes just one more thing we “should” do; turning self-care into a chore… who’s idea was that?!
But here's the game-changer: breaking self-care down into bite-sized pieces almost immediately brings us back to sensations of relief, relaxation and rejuvenation, which is the entire point of self-care to begin with! Leave the grand gestures that require extra time, money, and effort to monthly and annual luxuries. What if self-care was as quick and easy as closed eyes, deep breaths and self-touch? Let’s return self-care to its rightful place as a no-brainer!
Welcome to Self-Care On-The-Go! where we’re focusing on bite-sized self-care practices designed to maximize accessibility, ease and time efficiency. Here are three super simple techniques designed to fit into your daily routine in 30 seconds or less. Extra credit if you do any of these multiple times a day and/or for longer than 30 seconds (said the therapist). Wink, wink. Ok, let’s dive in!
1. Close Your Eyes: Instant Relief
There really isn’t anything easier than closing your eyes. Doing so instantly shuts off external stimuli which allows your eye to rest and your focus to turn inward. Think of closing your eyes as hitting the "reset" button for your brain. No special equipment needed; just you, a comfy spot, and a few moments of peace.
How to Do It: If you want a quiet spot, find one. Or you can do this anywhere that’s safe. Stop what you’re doing and close your eyes. Just a few seconds can clear your mind and reduce stress. As you’ll notice, closing your eyes is most often accompanied by taking a deep breath (our next guest.)
2. Intentional Breathing: Instant Relaxation
Breathing is automatic; most people can go all day without consciously noticing their breath. But when breathing is done intentionally, it’s like having a mini-meditation session that regulates your nervous system. It’s quick, effective, and can be done anywhere.
How to Do It: Sit or stand comfortably, inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four, hold for a count of four, and exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of six. Repeat a few times and feel your stress melt away. Full permission granted to change the four or six counts to your liking. (This is for you, after all.) Just make sure you’re taking deep breaths into your abdomen.
3. Self-Touch: Instant Rejuvenation
Self-touch is a powerful way to connect with yourself, demonstrate your gentle, comforting side and soothe tension.
How to Do It: Choose between a simple touch, like placing your hands over your heart or caressing your arm. Perhaps you’re in the mood for something a little firmer like a mini hug or a neck massage. Touch is very personal so explore and find what works for you. Make note of what you prefer with varying levels of stress and rinse, repeat.
***Bonus: You might find yourself incorporating all three of these Self-Care On-The-Go! exercises at the same time naturally– Fantastic, do that!
So, there you have it! These three self-care techniques are quick, easy, and can make a significant impact on your well-being. Remember, self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate to be effective. Sometimes, the simplest practices can bring the most profound benefits. Try them out, and watch how they transform your day, one 30-second burst of self-love at a time!
I’ve got plenty more Self-Care On-The-Go! ideas. So, if you’re looking to integrate Self-Care On-The-Go! into your life and want a sidekick to help design the perfect combination to suit you and your lifestyle contact me for a Self-Care Jumpstart session.