One thing that the pandemic has taught us is that self-care is critical to our well-being. Most of us routinely neglect to care for ourselves not because we don't care, but because we either don't have the time or energy for it or we don't know where to begin. My self-care routines vary depending on how well I'm doing with the current state of the world, my health, and my deadlines. It's a lot to manage, but I realized that more than ever, I need to take care of myself.
I have to have my manuscript to my publisher in a few weeks. The series name and logo have been revealed. The cover in its entirety will be revealed tomorrow, Friday 18/2/2021. It's officially out there, so I officially need to get this done. I have lupus and 10 other diseases (no joke, story for another day). I'm constantly juggling doctor appointments, medication changes, and just feeling like crap when it rains or the humidity is high. Life is also there. I still have to see my in-laws, hang out with my husband, love on my dog, and act human every so often. I have online friendships with people I've known for years and new friends to nourish.
All that to say I AM STRESSED. Yes, I needed to yell that.
My self-care for the last few weeks has been minimal, but I try to do something every day. I make an effort to meditate for at least five minutes a day, usually the five minutes after the alarm goes off and I'm resigned to getting out of bed. I burn subtle incense or candles to make my office smell nice. I wear fun socks and t-shirts with doodled characters. I live in my new Addidas track pants that I bought myself for Christmas to match the ones I got for my husband as a joke (long story for another day) because they're super comfortable and they have pockets. I'm also trying to use those track pants and pockets as motivation to walk a mile a day. I also try to live a hygge life, simplicity, and warmth.
What are your self-care habits? How have you been taking care of yourself during this pandemic? What new tricks have you learned?
