When the pandemic first started, I remember a rush of content and tips on self-care flood into my social media feed and inbox.
With normal routines thrown off for people around the world, I noticed how it inspired many to go back to basics for both physical and mental well-being.
We were all forced to get creative with what could be done at home, and with little access to the outside world.
Lately, I’ve been thinking about what sustainable self-care practices I’ve built into my everyday life. I realized that all of them had something in common. They were easily accessible, pandemic or not.
Here are my top six recommendations for free ways to practice daily self-care.
Reflection practice
A regular routine for reflection can be a powerful way to deepen self-awareness. Whether it’s jotting it down in a journal, on a piece of paper or a note on your phone, taking time for a mindful pause is one of my favorite self-care practices. A few prompts that can help get you started:
What are three things you have deep appreciation for in your life right now?
What is your intention for the day and why?
Try opening your journal and writing three pages of any thoughts that come to mind. This daily journaling habit, known as Morning Pages, was created by Julia Cameron as a way for people to unleash their creativity.
Ground in nature
Forest bathing, a Japanese practice consisting of calm observation and breathing in the beautiful outdoors, is said to support managing stress and boosting health in a natural way.
Since we are surrounded by scenic ocean and jungle views all over Guam, taking time to disconnect in nature is an easy habit right outside our doors.
Try meditation
Meditation can take many different forms, and can be as short as just a few minutes. Set a timer, play background music or simply just focus on your breath.
If you’re just getting started, and would prefer a guided meditation, there are a range of free apps available. I personally use and enjoy Insight Timer.
YouTube
YouTube has a wealth of free wellness resources including yoga classes, at-home workouts, breathwork and sound healing. A few accounts to explore with free content include Well+Good, Alo and Yoga with Adrienne.
Digital detox
While there are now apps available to support this and focus mode settings to adjust on phones, creating simple boundaries around phone time in the morning and evening can be an impactful self-care decision.
Intentionally limiting screen time supports our ability to adequately rest and recharge.
Tidy up
Don’t underestimate the power of cleaning and organizing your space as a means for self-care. I often share with my health coaching clients the importance that environment has on creating consistency in habits.
Consider what state your home environment is in today. Is it in need of a declutter or re-arranging? A clean and tidy home can be the start of a reset in your mind.
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Livia Marati is a women’s holistic health coach and founder of Ina Wellness Collective. You can send her questions and comments at livia@inawellnesscollective.com.