5 Self-Care Habits You Can Start Today

1. Sleep.

Make sure you are getting the proper amount of sleep each night.  This is #1 for a reason.  There is nothing worse than starting the day exhausted!  Things will only get worse from there.  Set yourself up for a good sleep by creating a relaxing environment. Comfortable bed, calming scents, soft music, whatever works for you.  

2. Nutrition.

Fuel = Energy.  Set yourself up by having good food at hand.  Don't skip breakfast!! Even if you aren't a big morning eater, have a healthy smoothie to get your body off to the right start.  Take some snacks with you, so you aren't going too long between eating. Take time to sit down and enjoy your meals, don't wolf them down on the run. And don't forget to drink plenty of water.  

3. Fresh Air.

One of the best ways to recharge your batteries in the middle of the day is to get outside, even if it is only for 15 minutes.  Go for a walk, take in your surroundings and BREATHE.  Don't take calls or return messages.  Just switch off and be present, you will me amazed how much better you will feel by doing this ritual daily.  

4. Meditation.

Although the art of meditation is centuries old, it is reaching a wider audience than ever before.  That is because we are more stressed out than ever before!!  With technology, as amazing as it is, we hardly ever switch off.  We are constantly being bombarded with texts, and calls and e-mails, at every hour of the day and night!  Meditation at it's core, is about quieting your mind.  If you are new to meditation, there are lots of apps out there to help.  I found guided meditation the best way to ease myself into it.  Now it is part of my daily life, and 10 Minutes is all it takes!

5. You Time.

Life shouldn't be all about work and chores and responsibilities.  Yes, we all have to make a living, and provide for our families, keep a clean house, shop for food and drop the kids at football/ballet/violin.  BUT, you have to make time for you.  If you schedule everything else without ever scheduling "me time", chances are, there won't be any time left for you!  Set some time aside every day to do something that charges you up.  Reading, writing, working out, taking a class, whatever you enjoy, that is just for you.  

Don't feel guilty.  When you feel happy and healthy, it will not only benefit you, but everyone around you that you care about.