How To Practice Self-Care As A Women Over 40
Whether you’ve had a rough week or just feel like you need a reset before Monday knocks on your door, taking time on the weekend to care for yourself is nothing you should apologize for.
There are many myths surrounding self-care. From “it’s selfish” to “I need to carve out a whole day for myself” to “I don’t really deserve it because I didn’t achieve my goals this week” — none of these statements are true. Self-care is for everyone and you always deserve it.
Social media may have given you the idea that self-care requires you to spend a lot of money on an expensive day at the spa or get everyone out of the house so you can relax in your bathtub with a glass of wine. This may be possible as a single 20-something with no kids and enough likes on their latest Instagram picture to pay for that weekend getaway but when you’re in your 40s and have a family, a career, or a house that needs your attention, these standards can seem unattainable.
Let’s talk about realistic ways to practice self-care instead, so you can reclaim your wellness no matter your age or family status! Start with a simple question: how do you feel today? Self-care is no one-size-fits-all routine, it’s being honest with yourself and finding what feels good and will replenish you.
Are you feeling mentally drained? Maybe playing a game with your family, watching a movie with your significant other or reading a book instead of scrolling through your social media will help you disconnect from the stress and reconnect with yourself. If you’re craving social interaction, find a way to connect with someone by calling a relative, hugging a family member or talking to a friend on the phone. Make this the week that you plan to care for yourself without the guilt!
Do you feel sluggish or unfit? Tend to your physical needs by taking a nap, cooking a delicious, easy meal or going for a walk. Is your emotional cup in need of a refill? Make an appointment to speak with your therapist, bake something that makes you feel good or write positive affirmations in your journal.
We know that it’s often easier to just go through the motions or that you feel a sense of responsibility to get your to-do list done before the new week starts. But remember that tending to your own needs will make you a stronger, healthier and more joyful person and ultimately benefit everyone from your coworkers to your kids. So take some time this Sunday (or any day, really) and ask yourself what you need to feel like yourself again.
Check out the visual below to learn more about the different types of self-care and get inspired by self-care recipes that can cater to your different moods. You got this!
Managing your Self-Care rituals doesn't mean you are being selfish
We want to remind you that taking time to practice self-care means that you care enough about the people and pets that you love, that you know you need to take care of yourself first.
Self-care might look different than it might look for me. We all know what it is that we need to do to check in with your mind, body, and spirit.
For more tips on practicing self-care, check out our post on how Journaling can help improve your life.
