We’re not saying you have to quit your job or cut back on your hours. Paying bills and taking care of your family is top priority, though it’s important to point out that you’re much more likely to burn out and even get sick if you aren’t taking care of yourself too.
Start with one daily act of self-care (and work your way up from there)
Self-care may not be our automatic response to most of life’s stressors, but it can make a big difference in helping us to recharge and become more equipped to handle said stress. Stress is a given, but how you perceive and emotionally react to stress can buffer its impact on your health.
Know what doesn’t have to be so stressful? Buying a home. Start by getting prequalified online.
In the spirit of self-care, try taking baby steps. Practice one act of self-love a day, just one, and see where that gets you. You might feel more relaxed. You might feel more connected with yourself and others. You might feel more resilient and able to tackle those stress-balls life throws your way.
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13 super-simple self-care ideas you can start using today
Before you jump into the good stuff, we encourage you to check out Part 1 of our self-care series. Altogether, we’ve rounded up 26 stress-busting and self-loving ideas from real people like you that can fit seamlessly into your daily routine.
No one ever said self-care had to be so hard:
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1. Exercise.
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Break a sweat and improve your mood for the rest of the day. Bonus points for trying something new.
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2. Do something totally frivolous.
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DIY manicures, anyone? Or how about trying out a new beard oil while you catch up on Westworld? (Etsy, $20)
Here’s one more thing that should be easy: Compare mortgages using our free Mortgage Calculator to find the right option for you.
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3. Listen to some great music.
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If music can make cats relax, just think of what it could do for your mental state.
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4. Just be yourself.
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Take it from The Rock — he’s clearly onto something.
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5. Take care of your body.
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There’s that mind-body connection again. When you’re eating well, getting enough sleep, and getting some exercise, you’re going to start feeling like your best self.
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6. Read a book.
(Amazon, $15)
Losing yourself in a good book has the potential to change your behavior and thoughts in your life. (Amazon, $15)
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7. Talk to a friend.
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If something’s on your mind, get it off your chest by venting to a trusted friend — even if it’s a quick cup of coffee, phone call, or email.
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8. Speak up for yourself, when needed.
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It’s scary, but using your voice respectfully in a confrontation will make you feel so much better.
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9. Have a good cry.
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Fall apart, regroup, and come back together again. Rinse and repeat as needed.
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10. Join a Meetup group.
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Beyond your daily obligations, join an extracurricular group so you can do things you actually enjoy. Depending on your location, Meetup has local groups for almost any interest you can think of — politics, religion, book clubs, hiking enthusiasts, dog lovers, and more.
Easy, convenient, and smartphone-friendly. Our free LoanFly app can make getting a mortgage a breeze.
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11. Try some adult coloring.
(Amazon, $10)
It’s fun. It’s chill. And it’s got some therapeutic benefits. (Amazon, $10)
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12. Take a catnap.
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There’s something so luxurious about setting aside 30 minutes for some shut-eye in the middle of the day. It doesn’t hurt that napping can reverse some of the negative health effects of poor sleep.
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13. Pursue your passion.
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Whether it’s going back to school, starting a blog, or learning a new instrument, the new year is the perfect time to start making space for you. This is your year — we can feel it.
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn to get more stellar self-care advice, plus helpful homeowner tips that could save you money on your mortgage. Because the best things in life are all about balance.
For educational purposes only. Please contact your qualified professional for specific guidance.
Sources are deemed reliable but not guaranteed.