One of the genius things about a bullet journal is that you can see what your priorities are — it’s right there in front of you, in black and white!
When was the last time you indulged in an act of self-care? If you can’t remember, 2020 is the time to change that.
Set the intention to make this year the beginning of a wonderful self-care decade.
What’s the most important thing on your to-do list? You! Because without taking care of yourself, there isn’t much left to give anyone else.
Gather up some self-care ideas and make a to-do list for yourself in your bullet journal.
Self-Care List
If you want to feel better on a daily basis, then you must have a to-do list for your own self-care. You can’t count on having other people to help with your well-being, so you must have a daily plan.
You might think that having a plan for your own self-care is a waste of time, but by taking care of your body and mind, you can avoid more health problems in the future.
Incorporating your to-do list into your bullet journal is a powerful way to give priority to self-care.
What kinds of things do you need to do in order to feel fulfilled? Some people struggle with daily functions of life.
This is where it might be a really good idea to make a list of the things that you have a hard time getting to.
When you’re stuck in a loop it can be easy to skip over washing your face, brushing your teeth and other tasks that make life just a little bit nicer.
Maybe you need to listen to music and relax a few times a day – be sure to include it in your list and try to cross it off the list a few times a week.
It’s important to keep yourself from becoming too isolated, but alone time is also key for realigning yourself. Try to get a bit of both.
Self-Care Without Spending Money
Stress can have a negative impact on your physical and mental well-being. Sometimes, people spend money on things to relieve their stress. Other times, financial issues can trigger stress.
The good news is you don’t need to spend a dime to de-stress. Here are a few ways to relieve stress without spending money:
Take a Hike
Nature is a natural stress reliever. By going outside for a hike, you can increase your oxygen and endorphin levels. It also provides a necessary mental distraction.
Try blocking out time to take a hike, maybe on a trail you haven’t explored yet. Allow your mind to wander and enjoy the scenery.
Meditate
Meditation is a great way to lower your blood pressure and relax your mind. How you meditate is up to you.
Some people like to sit down on a hard floor with their legs crossed. Others enjoy lying in a dark, cool room. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you can meditate on the bus, in a waiting room, or during a pedicure appointment.
The key to restful meditation is to remove yourself from distractions and breathe deeply. You can recite a positive phrase or mantra if you’d like, too.
Draw Yourself a Bubble Bath
Indulge in some quality “me time” with a warm bubble bath. Turn the lights down low or light a candle. Soak up the suds until your body feels relaxed.
Some people find classical music to be a nice touch. Others enjoy complete silence.
A bubble bath is a simple thing that can relieve symptoms of stress quickly!
Make a Cup of Tea
Caffeine-free tea is ideal. A hot cup of tea can reduce your stress levels.
Especially if you choose a cup of tea with mood improving scents like citrus, mint, or lavender.
Curl up on the couch with your tea and sip your way to stress-free bliss.
Get More Sleep
Don’t run yourself ragged. Take time to have some shuteye each night. Or if you have time during the day, take a short nap.
(Doctors recommend 7 to 8 hours of sleep daily, but you may need more or less.)
Sometimes stress is related to exhaustion. You’ll be better equipped to handle everything life throws at you when you’ve gotten enough rest.
Find a Way to Laugh
A great comedy movie or funny book can lift your spirits and reduce stress. This is because laughter truly is the best medicine.
There’s scientific evidence that laughing reduces stress level and alleviates tension.
So find something or someone to laugh with, and you’ll be on your way to relieving stress.
Break Out the Yoga Mat
If all else fails, stretch your stress away. Yoga combines meditation, deep breathing, and physical activity into one great stress-busting activity.
You don’t need a class or a pricey video. YouTube has a lot of free yoga tutorials — my favorite teacher is Adriene and this 30-day home yoga series is stellar for stress-relief.
Wear any comfortable clothing that you can stretch out in, like shorts or leggings, and use a blanket or towel in place of a mat. Special yoga attire and equipment is not required, though it’s certainly nice.
Bullet Journal
All you need is a notebook and pen to get started with bullet journaling for self-care!
There’s nothing like expressing yourself on paper for getting a restful night of sleep. PM journalers may choose to keep a gratitude list, mood tracker, or write a short daily paragraph to process their emotions.
Other people find that bullet journaling a to-do list in the AM helps them destress because they have a plan for the day.
Art lovers enjoy doodling or coloring on a page, so that they tap into their intuitive wisdom.
Want More Self-Care Ideas?
Bullet Journal for Daily Self-Care
Bullet Journal for Mental health & 5 Self-Care Ideas
Winter Self-Care Activities for Your Bullet Journal
How to Practice Hygge for Winter Self-Care
Develop a Self-Care Journal Routine
Pin these Self-Care Ideas for later!
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