Unconventional Self-Care Ideas
Self-care is a crucial tool to have in your arsenal. There are numerous websites, memes, etc, on the topic. This is excellent, yet a lot of them say the same things, cup of tea, good book, breath, meditation, etc. I am not knocking these things, for again they are all ways in which I self-regulate. I am here to add to the list, with some unconventional ideas, to shake things ups and add a little silliness and joy to your day.
Unconventional Self-care ideas
1. Dance party, teenage year’s style. Get a list of your favorite tunes from high school, and dance as if nothing else matters. (The more pets or children that join you, the better)
2. Go slightly out of your way to make your teenagers roll their eyes and feel embarrassed to be seen with you. (Which shouldn’t take much), The only rule is that whatever you do, it gives you a giggle and makes you feel good about who you are. (I enjoy coming up with outlandish things, like picking my daughter up from school in a clown costume and hoping that she does not call me on my bluff, lol)
3. Write a novel, no serious, write a novel (ok, a short story will also work). The catch is that it cannot be good. It has to be full of stupid puns, and silly scenarios that do not make sense. The point is that you are having fun making this stuff up with no intention of actually publishing or bringing it to the light of day. It is purely for your enjoyment.
4. Five words: Rocky Horror Picture Show, Live
You can get an audience participation script here. (or check out the website for your local live production)
5. Water or Nerf gun sneak attack (preferably with someone who will participate after you make the first move)
6. Go for a jog dressed in your Sunday’s best, as a vampire or something silly. Maybe you can give someone else a good laugh while you giggle at yourself.
7. Dance to your ringtone. (Especially when you feel too stressed to answer/talk to whoever is calling or just need a quick respite. You can always call them back) Thank Michelle Gomaz and the British show Green Wing for this.
Sue White’s Phone Dance
8. Add regular body scans into your daily routine. I mean, take a few minutes out of your day to focus on your breath and scan your body. Are you feeling tense anywhere, are you hungry, is there an emotion bubbling up that you may need to address sooner rather than later. How is your stress level, etc . Putting this into your daily routine can help you become more aware of yourself and thus be more proactive in reducing your reactions and increasing your responses.
While all the above are fun, I recommend adding number 8 to your daily routine and testing the waters. The Key to effective self-care is finding something that rejuvenates, empowers, and is enjoyable.
If you are struggling with any of this or just need help slowing down and being more aware in the moment, let me know, and we can chat.
Love and light,
Jodie Nicole