If you’re a house cat, your daily routine is nothing short of indulgent. From lounging on the sofa to meticulously grooming every inch of your sleek fur and dainty toe beans, self-care is a lavish affair. However, most of our readers are humans, and finding even a mere 10 minutes amidst our hectic schedules for self-care can feel like a luxury beyond reach.
However, while dirty glassware waits for the dishwasher and homework piles up if not promptly tackled, there’s still hope for those seeking balance between personal and professional demands. Presenting, a practical guide to self-care for those whose meals consist solely of coffee, ramen noodles, and stress.
Enter Your “Grandma Era”
I’m constantly forgetting things. But even more often, I simply don’t get around to doing them. That’s why I’ve become heavily reliant on autopilot to navigate through life as a college student and barista. In the midst of the whirlwind that is a busy week—filled with work obligations, family commitments, mundane tasks, and the basic necessities of life—I must confess that my socks seldom find their match, and my lunch usually consists of a half-empty container of hummus. That said, I still manage to navigate the week with most of my chores checked off on the “done” half of the to-do list, all while maintaining a healthy sleep cycle.
To ensure the completion of all responsibilities, keep a schedule. A “Daily Deeds” regimen ensures peace and productivity on a Monday-to-Friday kind of week! Hence, when Wednesdays resemble a crowded emergency room lobby stocked only with Time Magazines from 1999, sticking to my structured routine keeps me grounded.
Each day has its purpose – Monday for free time, Tuesday for work, Wednesday for church, Thursday for groceries, and Friday for my sister’s dance. Having a nightly activity maintains momentum, even during moments of low motivation. Productivity keeps me engaged and prevents lethargy. This is a tradition which dates back even into the days of Laura Ingalls Wilder, where Ma completed washing on Monday, ironing on Tuesday and so on and so forth. While our grandmothers may not be the go-to experts for operating a Samsung Galaxy S23, they certainly knew a thing or two about mastering the essential tasks for daily survival.
Stanley Cups: They Really Do Make a Difference
At times, we underestimate the significance of staying hydrated. I want you to feel like Ken from the Barbie movie, experiencing the wonder of discovering his white fur coat for the first time, and to accomplish this I strongly suggest having a water bottle with you throughout the week to ensure you’re prepared and ready for the day.
My suggestion, Stanley cups, the brand of choice for Tik-Tok influencers and athletes alike. Not only does it keep you cooler than Ryan Gosling’s dance moves, but it provides an excuse to visit the local Target or Academy-and that likely includes a trip to the in-store Starbucks too.
Yet, Stanley cups aren’t just for keeping drinks cold; they also exude style with its clean lines and solid colors. A dependable and stylish cup actually does encourage greater hydration, transforming a simple drink into a moment.
Skincare
Even the Egyptians valued a rigorous skincare routine. Following a lengthy workday, I eagerly anticipate a soothing hot shower, wiping away the sweat and the memory of Janet’s side-eye as she took her medium oat milk latte sans foam. These carefully selected products help me do more than bathe, they allow me to cleanse.
To that end, I highly recommend Estée Lauder. Dealing with dry skin, I rely specifically on their Advanced Night Repair serum, paired with the Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Gel-crème to address under-eye concerns. You can find these products at Belk and Ulta Beauty, with Belk in Cornelia, GA being an excellent place to start, thanks to helpful consultants guiding you to the best products for your skin.
Engaging in skincare can be uplifting, and it’s not just for adults. My 10-year-old sister has recently followed in my footsteps, adopting her own regimen. Her favorite products include Bubble Skincare from Walmart and Ordinary from Ulta. Witnessing her embrace of everyday femininity genuinely warms my heart.
Caffeine Kick
For fellow caffeine enthusiasts like myself, here’s a game-changer! While I adore coffee, there are times when I crave a pick-me-up without the coffee vibe. Thanks to a TikTok discovery, I’ve found a new obsession—a coconut berry Red Bull with a splash of French vanilla creamer. It’s like summer in a cup! To make it on the go, swing by a gas station, grab your favorite Red Bull, a cup, and some ice. Head to the coffee condiment section and add a miniature Delight brand French vanilla creamer pack. Voila! Alternatively, you can pick up Red Bulls and creamer from your local grocery store like Walmart or Ingles to whip up this life-changing drink at home. Your taste buds will thank you! Being in a role where I craft drinks all day, I’m definitely a beverage enthusiast. Interestingly, I lean towards a flavorful drink over a steak.
While I enjoy food, having a drink—be it water, soda, or coffee—is a constant for me. Knowing my days are long, I ensure there’s some caffeine in my system to keep me energized throughout the day! I have another obsession—Pumpkin chai. Unlike energy drinks with higher caffeine levels, chai is a milder option. When I want a break from a hefty caffeine intake, I opt for my iced pumpkin chai. Oatmilk has become my go-to addition. I enjoy pairing it with chai and a shot of espresso for a subtle caffeine boost. The oat milk enhances the creaminess and flavor of the drink, creating a delightful combination.
Snack Ideas
Ensuring that you eat consistently throughout the day is crucial to getting through the day and reaching the finish line with verve. Personally, I struggle with maintaining a regular eating routine, leading to fatigue and overall feelings of discomfort by midday.
My 8-hour workdays often feel extended, primarily due to insufficient food intake, evident when my stomach constantly growls. One snack I enjoy is a combination of bell peppers, cream cheese, and hot Cheetos, offering a delightful blend for those who appreciate a spicy kick. Whether you opt for hot Cheetos, hot fries, Takis, or your preferred chip brand, this snack is perfect for spice lovers. If you’re in the mood for something sweet and savory, a classic go-to is pretzels and peanut butter—the timeless combination of salty and sweet never fails to bring me joy.
Peanut butter’s versatility makes it a perpetual favorite in my snack repertoire! While those mentioned snacks are among my favorites, there’s something satisfying about the simplicity of a bag of Lay’s Dill Pickle flavored chips. Pairing them with a sub sandwich creates an unbeatable combination to satisfy hunger cravings.
Quality Sleep
I typically kick off my workday in the early morning, rising at 4 am to prepare. Early mornings have taught me the importance of a good night’s sleep. Adequate rest ensures comfortable functioning and sets the tone for a great day. As a self-proclaimed night owl, I’ve learned that staying up until 2 am before a 5 am shift deprives my body of the necessary rest to function properly.
Establishing a consistent bedtime, ideally no later than 10:30 pm, is crucial. This ensures at least 6 hours of sleep for those early shifts, which is far better than the occasional 2 hours I’ve experienced – not recommended. For optimal refreshment, aim for a solid 8 hours of sleep. Without sufficient rest, a good day becomes challenging. Listen to your body’s signals of sleepiness and prioritize self-care by going to bed when needed.
Podcasts
Occasionally, when I’m not in the mood for music, I kickstart my day by tuning in to an engaging podcast on Spotify. It’s like having a reliable companion that always delivers something fresh and even captivating to keep me energized. Dealing with self-love challenges is a common experience, and sometimes we lack answers to our own questions. Podcasts, like The Self Love Book, act as a therapeutic conversation without the need for face-to-face interaction. The first chapter, “Do you love yourself?” resonates with the daily struggle we all face. This podcast inspires me to love and express myself better, leaving me more confident and on a path of self-improvement.
A Day for Yourself
I cherish having days to myself, relishing the tranquility. On my off days, I prefer staying productive by tackling chores like laundry and room cleaning. Once the essentials are done, I indulge in relaxation – be it watching a movie or simply closing my eyes. This routine is therapeutic; having dedicated days for household tasks feels like self-care. A rejuvenating “me day” is essential, providing a refreshing break and a chance to unwind, acknowledging the importance of mental health breaks for self-care. It’s alright to acknowledge that some days are more challenging than others.
Embracing the fact that struggles are a part of life, I’ve found solace in taking occasional mental health days. Taking time for oneself is not only acceptable but also a healthy practice. Whether gearing up for work or a day with friends, feeling good and energized is essential. Investing in a day of relaxation and quiet moments proves beneficial, enhancing overall well-being for a more positive engagement in daily activities.
Conclusion
Amidst the challenges of everyday life, let me serve as a reminder that it’s perfectly fine to carve out time for yourself and catch your breath. Happiness often lies in embracing self-care. I, too, didn’t initially recognize its impact, but incorporating these daily essentials has genuinely elevated my energy and well-being throughout the week. I’m more refreshed, productive, and just generally happier. Whether it’s struggling with hydration or finding time for adequate sleep, know that you’re not alone—I’m right there with you! Always keep in mind that the foundation of success lies in self-love.
