How to Self-Care like a Modern Hippie
People are starting to recognize that the burning the candle at both ends way of living is no longer working and is no longer sustainable or healthy. I've noticed that as we become more mindful and seek balance in our lives, we are seeking ways to nourish the mind, body, and soul, because they're all connected. For me, I prioritize self-care like it's my job, and with 0 guilt attached. Without it, I crash and burn and start to become super off balanced (I'm basically low energy and irritated). Which then trickles into different areas of my life. It becomes a domino effect when the balance is off.
Self-care is recognizing what your needs are and providing care for you, by you. Because who else is going to make you feel better? Not your spouse, and not your best friend. You, and only you are responsible for taking care of your whole being. Self-care is preventative care that will keep you fueled in a sustainable way. In a culture that likes to promote working more than 40 hours a week, it's really easy to let guilt creep in and make you feel lazy or like you don't yet deserve a break. And what I say to that is that you should never feel guilty for giving yourself what you need. YOU are your biggest investment. That being said, here are a few personal tips for self caring like a modern hippie.
Mind
Meditation. It doesn't have to be a long sit, 10 minutes with yourself is all you need to reap the benefits of meditation. I use the Headspace App as they have guided and unguided meditations.
Read a book. Self-help books are my favorite just because I feel like I'm getting new perspective on the mind (currently reading: "The Gift of Imperfection"), but any book you can get lost in is great.
Write. Write to dump what's on your mind, or just write for the sake of writing.
De-clutter/Clean: A default self-care act I participate in often. If my space is cluttered and not clean, my mind feels that way too. Pick a few small things to do and get them done!
Cannabis. Be it body or mind, research has shown that cannabis is effective in treating mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and stress. Yes, please!
Digital Detox. Allow yourself some quiet time and some in person connection, away from your devices. Plus, it's a good thing to give your body a break from EMFs.
Say No. It's simple, really. So "NO" to something and say it unapologetically.
Netflix and Chill. Watching TV or a movie is OK if you feel like that's what you need! Don't forget the munchies.
Affirmation. Choose a weekly affirmation and say it to yourself every morning and night. Affirmations help you stay in a constant state of gratitude.
Healthy Habit: Start a healthy new habit. It can be something small like an affirmation, or something bigger like going to the gym x days a week.
Body
Connect with Nature. Go for a hike, have a picnic in your backyard, or go camping. Anything outside will give you the space to connect with mother earth!
Take a Bath. Bubbles, salts, whatever you want.. throw them in there and soak. This is my favorite! For ultimate self-care I smoke a a little cannabis and listen to Tibetan bowls.
Face mask. I'm a big fan of spa like self-care. I haven't found a mask I truly loved until recently! Borbon's No. 1 natural and minty mask leaves my face feeling refreshed and glowing.
Body Movement. Moving the body is amazing for moving energy and letting go of tension. Dance and shake your body with no judgment, listen to it, and let your body flow.
Sleep. Wether it's a nap or going to bed early, getting some good Z's is one of the best gifts you can give to your body to help is feel rested and catch up on sleep.
Kundalini Yoga. Stretching the body paired with aura clearing movements and breath will help create balance in your body.
Hug Someone. It is scientifically proven that a hug can elevate the mood and improve happiness! So, go on, hug a family member, friend, or pet.
Hydrate. Be it nourishing juice, or fruit infused water, being hydrated is one of the best ways to stay healthy and keep the brain thinkingly clearly.
Eat Healthy. Similar to hydrating, eating healthy, and if possible organic, will nourish the body and mind! Try smoothies in the morning for easy veggie intake and a new healthy habit.
Try a New Activity. Break routine and try something you've always wanted to do but never made the time for.
Soul
Visit with a High Vibe Friend. Sometimes it takes being around someone who vibrates so much positive energy to nourish your soul. High vibes are contagious.
Get Creative: When was the last time you did something creative and did it just for fun? Paint, draw, do something that creatively feeds your soul. I recommend this Mandala coloring book.
Buy Yourself Flowers. Be your own bae! This is one that I do every week! No need to wait on someone to do it for you, plus you get to pick the colors you want. You deserve it.
Drum Circle. Get a few people together with a few drums and small instruments and enjoy the music you create together.
Care for an Animal. When you care for another animal, it actually creates a calming effect and eases anxiety.
Reiki. See a Reikei master to help dissolve any energy blocks that may be with you.
Plan a Trip. Plan a trip for yourself- big, small, near or far. You'll have a fun adventure to look forward to in the near future.
Say, I love you. Show gratitude to someone you love and appreciate. Spreading love feels good for everyone involved!
Community Service. When you give back to your community, you improve the lives of others and in return create high vibrations! I use Volunteer Match to find something that fits my service interests.
Therapy. There is nothing wrong with dumping all your thoughts onto your therapist. Sometimes we all need a little perspective and an outsider's view on what's going on in our lives. Feel no shame.