For years, I told myself I didn’t have enough time or money to take care of myself. Being a Single Mum, my main priority has always been my daughter, then my business, then my home and IF there is any time left – I would think about myself – during this, I’ve felt guilty for not putting my daughter first all the time.
But with time, I learnt that to be able to look after others, I needed to look after myself first. By caring and putting myself first, I will be able to give more of myself, in a happier and healthier way.
If you have been on an aircraft, I am sure you remember their safety demonstration where they say; “If you are travelling with a child or someone who requires assistance, secure your oxygen mask on first, and then assist the other person.” This is how you should think when it comes to daily life – put yourself first and then look after others. If you are not making yourself a priority by looking after your health and well-being, how on earth will you be able to look after loved ones when you have no energy?
NEGLECTING MY OWN WELL-BEING IS SOMETHING I TRULY CAN’T AFFORD.
Thankfully, through various trials and errors during the past few years, I’ve found some budget-friendly ways to include wellness in my daily life – I hope some of these ideas will be helpful and useful to you:
Fresh flowers
I love flowers and buy a bouquet every week. My favourite is Peonies, but as they are seasonal, I buy tend to buy Lilies, Carnations, Freesia and Alstroemeria.
Guided meditation
I have always wanted to get into meditation, but never been able to actually sit down and do it (I am not able to sit quietly and quiet my mind). Then I discovered ‘Guided Meditation‘ which I found more doable and enjoyable.
Healthy eating
I am passionate about cooking and healthy eating, which is the inspiration behind ‘Soulfully Nourished‘. I plan my meals on a Friday, buy the groceries for those meals at the local Farmers’ Market on a Saturday and do meal prep on Sundays.
Inspiration & vision board
I have an inspiration board on my desk which I update beginning of every season. On this, I stick favourite quotes, calendar, my goals, health check-list, achievements and more. The positive words and images remind me of who I am and who I want to be. On days I feel a bit low, I take a look at it and get reminded on how far I have come.
Music
I start my day by listening to Gurbani (Sikh prayers), during breakfast I listen to something inspirational like Danielle LaPorte, Marie Forleo, The School of Greatness etc. While working, I listen to Jazz FM and at bedtime it’s calming tranquil music.
Breakfast & me-time
Every morning, I take out about an hour to myself where I set the table, make some yummy breakfast and have a cup of turmeric, moringa & baobab latte while reading or listening to something inspirational.
Morning & afternoon walk
I thoroughly enjoy my morning & afternoon walks. There’s nothing more comforting and soothing than walking in the park watching the sun (or the raindrops falling on the ground), listening to and feeling the breeze and the birds tweet.
Reading
I love reading! I used to have over 500+ books, but when I started downsizing and simplifying my overall life, I gave away and sold 90% of them (physical copies) and went digital – KINDLE.
Sweet treats
OK, I will admit it – I’ve got a sweet tooth (actually sweet TEETH!). Believe it or not, I treat myself almost daily to either chocolate or cake.
Home spa & detox bath
I love and adore my weekly SPA day at home which consists of a detox bath, facial, manicure and pedicure etc.
TV
There’s something about ‘Sex and the City’ (and it’s not what you think!) that makes it my favourite show to watch. I love the friendship between Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha, their struggles and achievements, their relationships, careers (the list is VERY long).
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