Happy First Monday of June! 

I am officially back from vacation and I had such a great time disconnecting from work and having luxurious amounts of time to focus solely on my mental health and self-care practices. 

However, being back in the real world, means that I have to recalibrate to balance my self care with my work and demanding schedule. 

For many women, juggling multiple roles and responsibilities often means putting their own needs on the back burner. Whether it’s taking care of family, excelling at work, or fulfilling social obligations, self-care tends to take a backseat. However, it’s crucial to remember that prioritizing your well-being is not selfish but rather essential for your overall happiness and ability to thrive.

If this resonates with you, I wanted to share three simple yet effective tips to help you “sneak” self-care into your day, ensuring you prioritize your needs alongside your relationships and responsibilities.

1. Take 3 Deep Breaths When You Wake Up:

Before you jump out of bed and dive headfirst into your daily routine, take a moment to ground yourself with three deep belly breaths. As soon as you wake up, close your eyes and inhale deeply through your nose, feeling your belly expand. Exhale slowly through your mouth, releasing any tension or worries. Repeat this process three times, allowing yourself to fully embrace the present moment and set a positive tone for the day ahead. These breaths will help you center yourself, reduce stress, and cultivate a sense of calm and focus as you start your day.

2. Savor the First 3 Sips:

Whether you prefer a warm cup of lemon water, fragrant matcha, or your favorite brand of coffee, make it a point to savor the first three sips of your morning beverage. Instead of rushing through your morning routine, take a moment to truly indulge your senses. Feel the warmth of the cup against your palms, inhale the aroma, and let each sip linger on your taste buds. This simple act of mindfulness allows you to start your day with intention and appreciation, providing a moment of pleasure and relaxation before the demands of the day take over. 

3. Put the Fork Down Between Bites:

In our fast-paced world, we often rush through meals, multitasking and barely taking notice of what we’re eating. After you take a bite, put your utensil down and chew your food slowly and deliberately. Focus on the taste, texture, and aroma of each bite, appreciating the nourishment it provides. This mindful approach to eating not only enhances your enjoyment of food but also supports proper digestion and prevents overeating. By savoring each bite, you’ll cultivate a deeper connection with your body and nourish yourself both physically and emotionally.

If you find it challenging to prioritize self-care due to your long list of to-dos, responsibilities, and commitments, these three simple tips provide you with an easy way to add mindfulness and self-care into your day without adding a lot of time or effort. 

For more tips and strategies to support your physical and mental health, download my free Simple Self Care Strategies for Professional Women by clicking here.