With jam-packed schedules and super long to-do lists, sometimes it’s difficult to carve out time for self-care. Luckily, you don’t have to completely clear your calendar in order to give yourself some TLC. You can squeeze in some me-time throughout your day in little pockets of time. Here are nine of our favorite little self-care rituals that take no more than 15-20 minutes.
Meditate
Meditation offers so many mental, emotional, and physical benefits. It’ll help you clear your mind, release stress and improve your overall well being. If you’re new to the practice, start with just one or two minutes of meditation first thing in the morning before you even get out of bed. This will ensure that you kick off the day with a positive mindset.
Read a book
Instead of mindlessly scrolling through social media, carry a book with you and read a couple of pages whenever you have a few minutes of downtime. Read during your lunch break or while you’re waiting for an appointment. Every spare minute counts towards your self-care time.
Put on a sheet mask
There’s no need to sacrifice your beauty rituals on busy days. Just throw on a sheet mask for 15-20 minutes and let it work its magic while you unwind before bed, take a warm bath, or watch a funny episode of your favorite sitcom on Netflix. Our line-up of sheet masks are infused with botanical ingredients and are designed to target different needs. Have dry skin? Pop on a Hydration Sheet Mask. Want a glowing complexion? Try the Vitamin C Sheet Mask.
Take a few deep breaths
We get it. Sometimes life is really crazy and sitting down for even five minutes is not doable.
On days like that, you can still nourish yourself by simply taking a few deep, cleansing breaths. This will allow you to come back into your body, clear your mind, and feel more centered. It’s like hitting the reset button on your mind, body, and soul.
Do something creative
Taking a few minutes to do something creative just because is a great way to connect with your inner child and blow off some steam. Whether you like to play with watercolor paints, practice an instrument, or get your DIY, it’s less about creating a perfect finished product and more about having fun and enjoying the process.
Say positive affirmations
This is another self-love ritual you can do that takes no time at all. Our thoughts and the words we say to ourselves impact the way we feel. Repeat positive “I am” statements to yourself throughout the day whenever you need a boost.
Move your body
Moving your body— in whatever way feels good— is the quickest way to shift your energy if you’re feeling stressed or if you’re in a funk. You can do a quick workout before work, stretch in your office, dance your heart out to your favorite song, or just take a break and go for a walk around the block.
Take a power nap
Naps aren’t just for kids. Adults too can benefit from a time out, especially when that afternoon energy slump hits. Instead of drinking that third cup of coffee, sneak away for a 20-minute power nap. When you feel recharged and alert, you’ll be able to show up as your best self in your life and get way more done during the day.
Write a gratitude list
Whether you do it first thing in the morning or right before bed, writing a gratitude list comes with a lot of benefits. It literally takes just five minutes but it will help elevate your mood, shift your focus onto the positive things in your life, and just make you feel really good overall.