The Me-Time Mixtape: Three essential hand-curated links and resources on creative self-care. Carve out some me time this week!
I'm feeling my anxiety rising these days, and have had to limit my exposure to social media and news. Turning inward is one of the most helpful refreshers I know, and after I've filled up my cup I have more energy and strength to tackle my world. I clear the calendar for a few hours (reminding myself that I matter too and need breaks). Then, I focus on some pampering self-care.
When I'm worrying, I might use one of the techniques mentioned in my new Art-Lovers Creative Practice Guide to Stop Overthinking, but on other days (when I want to keep things simple), I'll take a relaxing bath, do some breathing exercises, stretches or meditation, take a slow walk in nature or do some easy journaling. Today's issue is dedicated to some of the more pampering self-care rituals.
May I suggest a certain podcast episode to listen to as part of your self-care? My latest episode (47) is on believing in yourself and building your self-reliance.
#1 The Perfect Bath
I love a good bath—slow, soothing me-time.☺️ They calm down my body, help me become mindful, and reduce the chance of being tempted to multitask. I also like to soak in magnesium-rich bath salts to reduce leg cramps in the evening. Check out the video within this article for immediate inspiration, then set up your perfect bath.
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#2 Box Breathing
Box breathing, an ancient practice traced back to India's Ayurvedic breathwork practice (pranayama) offers many physical and psychological benefits. When I feel like my emotions are all over the place, I like the visual of a box and find breathing within the confines of that imagery helpful in bringing my focus inward. Box breathing shuts down the overthinking and worry (find more techniques for that here) and lets me return to what's happening in the present moment. I'm better able to handle things after reorienting to the present. I can hear my inner voice say, "You are OK."
#3 Get Untangled with Zentangles
Zentangle has been called "yoga for the brain;" in addition to its stress-relieving benefits, I think it's a wonderful way for those of us who think we don't have much artistic talent (my art-making leans closer to a 5-year-old's fingerpainting) to dabble in art-making! Drawing zentangles is similar to doodling or mandala-making. Check out this article, and the step-by-step video to see if Zentangle-making might be something you're into.
BONUS: Check Out My Free Creative Guide to Reduce Overthinking & Worry
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Latest Podcast Episode
Episode #47: Believing in Yourself: How Self-Reliance Grows
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