Today on the blog we have another guest Marisa Sim, a holistic health coach who pens down 20 self-care ideas for moms and to be honest all women in general, cuz we often get so busy that we forget to take care of ourselves. I always say this, “Put your oxygen mask first” before helping others, in the article below….find out some ways of doing so 😉

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November is here!

As the days get wet and cold, all you want to do is wear your warm socks, get cozy with a cup of tea, and stay all day indoors, which I used to do when I first got to Switzerland. But then I learned from the Swiss that there is no such thing as bad weather, only ill-fitting clothes. Also, I realized that it is essential to get out of the house every day, even for an hour, to get some fresh air and get the endorphins going.

During the dark winter months, when we get less sunlight and tend to stay indoors more, many people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a mild form of depression. People suffering from SAD will start to crave carbs and sugary foods to help deal with the winter blahs. Sound familiar? Honestly, SAD affects me too! So it is imperative to look after our well-being during the autumn/winter months.

Also, it is that time of the year where mothers are busy preparing for the looming festive season, which means you are more likely to put your health and self-care on the back burner. So I put together some simple self-care ideas to help you through the winter. They take
between 5 minutes to 30 minutes, so choose one that resonates with you. Remember that even 5 minutes of self-care every day is better than the occasional massage or a long bath.

5 minutes

#1 Take your Vitamin D

Vitamin D is called the “sunshine vitamin” because it is produced in your skin in response to sunlight. During winter, it’s essential to take your Vitamin D drops for your immunity. Also, research has shown that vitamin D might play a critical role in regulating mood and warding off depression.

#2 Make your bed

A messy bed can make you feel anxious and unorganized. However, making your bed first thing in the morning can make you feel like you have accomplished something and keep you feeling motivated.

#3 Listen to music

What’s your jam? Is it rock ‘n roll, rap, R&B, indie, or dance music? I have a couple of songs in my arsenal that I listen to pick up my mood immediately. Brimful of Asha, anyone?

#4 Moisturize your body

Dry skin is so common in winter. So often, I forget to moisturize my body after I pop out of the shower. So now I keep my moisturizers at my nightstand, and I moisture my legs and arms just before going to bed.

#5 Massage your feet

A quick massage session before heading off to bed helps improve blood flow and enables you to sleep better. It also improves mood and lowers anxiety.

#6 Eat a piece of chocolate

Instead of stuffing your face, make it a ritual- stop what you are doing, close your eyes and enjoy the chocolate melting in your mouth, paying attention to flavor and texture.

15 minutes

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#7 Put a DIY face mask

Mix two tablespoons of oats, a tablespoon of lemon juice, two teaspoons of honey. Rub it all over your face and leave it on for 15 minutes. Then wash gently with warm water. Your face will feel smooth and hydrated.

#8 Stretch

The cold weather might keep you at home more, so practice 15 minutes of stretching to get rid of all those winter aches and pains, and it also boosts your mood.

#9 Call a family or friend

Pick up the phone and talk to a family member or friend. Sometimes all you need to feel good is to hear a familiar voice.

#10 Read a chapter in a book

It’s not often that I get to finish a book, and as much as I would like to read a physical book, I found it much easier to download a book on my phone and read while I have my morning coffee or commuting.

#11 Journal

Writing in your journal can be a great way to release some troubles and worries that you might have in your head. It’s also an excellent way to document some memories of motherhood and life.

#12 Meditate

How often in a day do you take time to be still? It’s hard for mothers to relax, not plan and think ahead. Meditation reminds us to be in the present moment and appreciate what we have around us. Download my favorite meditation apps like Insight Timer, Calm, or Head Space.

30 minutes

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#13 Have a dance party

It is a fun way to exercise and improves cardiovascular fitness. It also raises the endorphins or so-called feel-good chemicals, which can lighten your mood and reduce the risk of depression. So turn the music up, get up and move your body!

#14 Declutter one area of your house

A cluttered house can leave you feeling out-of-control and affects your mood. Spending some time decluttering and getting rid of things will help you feel more in control and relief. Watch Marie Kondo on Netflix to get you inspired!

#15 Head for the local coffee shop

There’s nothing like a hot cup of coffee or hot chocolate to perk up your day! Sometimes all we need to reset our mind is a change of scene to make the dark winter day more bearable.

#16 Take a walk in nature

Yes, I know! Walking in the cold might not sound appealing, but you will be amazed at what 30 minutes of walking can do to boost your mood. Get some fresh air in your lungs and move your body to feel alive!

#17 Get some sun when you can

I know it’s not always possible, but when the sun is out, drop everything you are doing and get some sun! Close your eyes, feel the warmth tickle your face and appreciate the sun.

#18 Take a hot bath

When was the last time you took a nice, long bath? Make it extra special with essential oils, Epsom salt, light candles, play your favorite music, pour yourself a drink, and relax.

#19 Listen to your favorite podcast

Make yourself a cup of tea, sit by the window and enjoy listening to your favorite podcast while watching the rainfall.

#20 Craft for fun!

Take out some paper, markers, stencils, and color pencils. Create a mandala and color it in or make a Christmas ornament from recycled materials. Get your creative juices going!

I hope you take your self-care seriously this winter season and that you look after yourself. Remember that you cannot pour from an empty cup.

“Self-care is not indulgent. It is self-preservation.”- Audre Lorde

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Which of these self-care ideas will you try this winter?

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Have you downloaded our free ebook – 21 Hidden Gems of Switzerland? If you haven’t read it yet, be sure to download it while planning your Swiss Getaway.

To read posts from October, click here

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