I’ve had a pretty tough week… honestly, tough is an understatement. I’ve had some of the biggest changes occur in such a small period of time so incredibly unannounced. It’s been rough. In lue of this, however, I’ve been trying some new self care techniques to clear my head and try and adjust to this new normal.
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Baking
I love to bake. Cupcakes, cookies, brownies, you name it, I’ll bake it, and even though I have a lovely kitchen in my apartment, I never am able to find the time. My mother isn’t a huge fan of this coping mechanism as I don’t clean the kitchen “properly” whatever that means. Let me tell you, though, there is no better way to take out your aggression than on some egg whites.
2. Taking Obscenely Long Showers
The great thing about showers is the fact that they actually serve a purpose while being relaxing and enjoyable. I mean no one can tell you that taking an hour long shower isn’t a form of productivity! You’re gettin’ all clean (and also having a good sob). There’s just something about just letting the water drench you, literally washing away the garbage of the day that’s so nice.
3. Asking For Help
I’m so bad at asking for help. I’m awful at even taking my own advice, for that matter, but this past week, I’ve realized how much I truly need to let myself lean on my friends and family, whether that means letting my mom cuddle me when I need to cry or just reaching out to my friends and asking for advice on the matter. It’s never been something I’ve been good at doing, but I can’t tell you how nice it is to have someone take care of you for change.
4. Drinking… WATER!
I feel like I’ve put my body through a lot lately, not necessarily physically, but emotionally. Believe it or not emotional pain can make you pretty damn dehydrated, so I’ve decided to start being kinder to my body, thanking it for getting me out of bed when I felt like I couldn’t, for walking me up the stairs when I didn’t think I could and for letting me feel the warmth and love from my amazing family and friends.
5. Walking it Out
As cliche as it sounds, fresh air really does help clear your mind. Take a big ‘ol breath in of almost spring air and exhale all of that garbage you’ve been keeping inside, and then walk it out. It doesn’t have to be some long monster walk, just go around the block, take a stroll around your apartment complex or get a little fancy and walk to your nearest coffee shop. Make an afternoon of it!