09/03/2026
Sometimes, self-care needs to be stripped back to the basics. When life feels overwhelming, anxiety spikes and stress hits, it can be hard to prioritise. We try to keep going, be all things to all people, balance the budget, tick all the boxes, but it feels impossible. And that's ok!
I had to write this on fridge last week when I felt exhausted and overwhelmed and these are the basic things I can do, even when I feel awful, that will keep me level and help me nuture myself, so I thought I would share for anyone who feels stuck, without hope, overwhelmed or lacking motivation.
The Four Do's:
No 1. Ground yourself. Go outside, barefoot if possible. Five or ten minutes every morning. Let your energy sink down into the earth, watch the sun come up, listen to the noises around you. Slow your breath. Sit and drink your morning tea outside, if that's your jam.
No 2. Go to bed early. I don't know about you but when I'm stressed the temptation to stay up late to reclaim some 'me time' is so strong. But I know that I need a minimum 7 hours a night to function, 8 is even better. Prioritise rest and plan for bed - put your phone and laptop down an hour before. Shower or bathe, have a milky drink, do whatever helps you feel relaxed and sleepy. I can't function I don't prioritise rest.
No 3. Eat three meals a day. This really helps me. I can't run when the tank is empty, and food is fuel. When I don't have the motivation to cook (which is often) I snack on crisps and houmous, cereal, eggs, peanut butter and banana on toast And if that is all I can manage in the moment, then fine. At least I've eaten something. Merchant Gourmet packs of grains and rice with some fried peppers and mushroom, topped with a couple of fried eggs is current quick favourite! (Get Lidl versions... cheaper, and just as delicious).
No4. Get outside every day and move your body. This is non-negotiable for me. Even a quick walk round the park with the dogs can be enough to lift my mood. I have to leave my phone at home to stop myself compulsively doomscrolling.
Continued in the comments!
❤️
