5 food-free ways to treat yourself this Easter
It's always a good day to practise extra self-care, and thanks to the Easter holidays you've got four whole days to do exactly that! Here, mental health pros share simple, creative ideas.
Self-care is important always- but the long Easter weekend provides the perfect excuse to spend time doing something - or things - that make you happy.
Enjoying chocolate treats is one way to celebrate, but it doesn't have to be all about food! For example, a restorative yoga session or a solo screening of your favourite film can absolutely count towards self-care.
The key is taking time to do something that feeds your soul. “Make it about celebrating you and your special qualities,” says Megan Logan, a licensed clinical social worker and the author of Self-Love Workbook for Women. Try one (or more!) of the ideas below, and enjoy feeling as special as you are!
1. Get outside
Go for a tech-free stroll in your nearest green space, soaking up the colours and sounds of nature. Whether you listen to birdsong, watch the trees sway in the breeze or tune into your breath, being outside can so incredibly restorative. “The more connected we are with nature, the more connected we are with ourselves,” says clinical psychologist Zoe Shaw, PsyD, author of A Year of Self-Care.
Double up on the benefits by leaving your phone at home. “Taking a temporary social media break frees up mental space for reconnection with yourself,” Logan says. “Once unplugged, you can fully engage in activities that need you to be in the present moment.”
2. Indulge your animal instincts
Treat your pets - and yourself - to some extra snuggle time. Spending just ten minutes with a pet increases levels of oxytocin, a hormone connected to feelings of trust and bonding, according to research on pups and their owners. If you don't have pets at home, snuggle up with some cute animal videos instead. “It’s practically impossible not to smile when you see a picture or video of sweet puppies and kittens,” Dr. Shaw says. “And one smile or laugh can produce a ripple effect in your body that lowers blood pressure and creates a sense of calm.”
3. Create a mini sanctuary
Kids build forts to carve out a private spot for themselves - and why should that stop after childhood?! This Easter weekend, set up a quiet corner in the living room or bedroom, complete with candles, cosy pillows and fluffy blankets. Make yourself your favourite hot drink, then settle in and read, watch a movie, meditate, or simply close your eyes.
4. Bask in some blooms
You know that warm feeling you get when someone gives you flowers? You can get a similar boost by picking up your own bouquet of blooms. Simply looking at flowers helps decrease negative emotions, according to a small study recently published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology. Select your favourite mix of flowers at the market, and create a beautiful bouquet for yourself. And since generosity also buoys happiness, make an extra bouquet to leave on a friend’s doorstep, too.
5. Pamper your skin
Take some time to appreciate the amazing skin you’re in by indulging in a DIY spa treatment. You could even get your friends in on the action by emailing recipes in advance for masks that everyone in your group can prepare and then apply together over Zoom. Or, run yourself a bubble bath and pamper yourself in the tub!