self-care is important. you are important.

here are some ways I'm prioritizing self-care, everyday. 

As a an entrepreneur and a new Mom, I have found that my current level of free-time is exceedingly limited. Gone are the days of nighttime Netflix binges, seated meditation and two hour yoga classes (at least for the moment, anyway). Between working, nursing and navigating motherhood, I’ve learned to become much more intentional with integrating self-care in my day-to-day moments. Rather than my self-care being big episodes of grandeur like a spiritual retreat or a spa day, I’m learning how to have moments in my everyday life that pay honor to the same intention.

A wise friend once told me “create a life you don’t have to vacation from.” Another friend told me “create moments in your every day to look forward to.” These two philosophies are being fully integrated into my life in 2020. With limited time, I recognize that the creation of these mindful moments is integral to my health, wellness and balance.

There was once a time in my life when I would beat myself up for not spending the first four hours of my day dedicated to mediation, breathing exercises and yoga. Now, I feel like I’m lucky to get 10 free minutes in for myself! With that said, I wanted to share some of the ways I’ve learned to integrate mindful moments into my day with you in case you are in the same boat. I know I’m not the only one out there balancing several things at once (right??🙋‍♀️🙋‍♀️🙋‍♀️), so I hope this can give you inspiration to explore something new if you also find yourself seeking time to prioritize your self during busy times.

LIGHTING A CANDLE AT BATHTIME

Okay, taking a bath is a total luxury right now, but I do my best to fit one in every evening before I go down for the night. When I start running the water, I take an extra moment to light a candle, use my favorite bath potion or drop a bath bomb in the water to give me a quick spa-like experience in the comfort of my own tub

SHOPPING AT THE FARMER'S MARKET

We all need to eat and buy groceries. I find I enjoy the experience best when I take advantage of the weekend Farmer’s Market here in Austin. It makes me feel good about myself to know that I am shopping local and buying from purveyors in our community.

TAKING MY TIME DRINKING MY MORNING COFFEE

Coffee is such a wonderful ritual. There is something so intoxicating about the smell of a freshly brewed cup. I love making it first thing in the morning (most always before the sun comes up) and serving it out of my favorite mug. I extra enjoy keeping the lights low so I can slowly ease into my day.

TAKING A WALK

Going on a walk around the neighborhood was something I never appreciated before. I always called a neighborhood a “concrete jungle” and I never considered it to be time in nature. With less time on my hands, my perspective has shifted. I’ve found that getting outside, even just for a quick walk around the block, is a great time for me to be present with my family and get a much-needed dose of nature and fresh air. I used to think my outdoor time needed to be a big lavish expedition, but now, I appreciate the trees in my neighborhood and the sounds of our street just as much.

GETTING MY NAILS DONE

I’ve always loved this basic maintenance, but now I prioritize it. It helps me feel more “put together” when my nails are polished. I always feel like it makes me feel like I’m camera-ready, and it gets me a “spa-like” experience in less than an hour.

EXPLORING NEW RECIPES

Not only is cooking and baking therapeutic for me, but it brings me joy to see the people I love eating the things that I’ve made. I find I appreciate the time at the stove more now, and I make it fun by exploring new recipes whenever I can. I like trying new things and it gives me a sense of accomplishment when I make something delicious. There is a “newness” and feeling of creativity when I get to make something I’ve never made before and it’s a stress-reliever at the end of a busy day.

I hope you enjoy! We'd love to hear some of your favorite ways to integrate self-care into your daily life– DM us @picnikshop on Instagram!