Most of the things we’ve been writing about recently on APW have been COVID-19 related because that’s the world we’re in right now. But we decided that with the constant awful news cycle, we need something a little more positive once and awhile. Like self-care. It’s important y’all! Seriously, the actual dictionary definition of self-care is “the practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress.” Seems relevant now, right? You bet.
Now that we’re almost a month into our shelter in place order, the APW staff has constantly been checking in with each other to make sure we’re taking care of ourselves. TBH, everyone’s form of self-care looks completely different from one another. Some are committed to strict skincare routines, others make sure to get in their daily walks (Fact: fresh air is good for you), a few of us make sure we don’t miss a virtual therapy appointment, and some of us go hard for a couple hours of uninterrupted reading. There are many, many forms of self-care.
Different Ways to Practice Self-care
Get Physical: Even though outdoor activities may be limited there are still plenty of ways to move your body at home. Have you seen the workouts you can do from your couch? Now is a great time to head to the app store and download workout routines directly to your phone or if you want to support the community, check and see if your fitness center is offering digital classes. APW favorites Hipline and Yoga to the People are both offering Zoom classes.
Talk it out: What’s happening right now is… a lot. If you had a therapist to talk to pre-coronavirus chat with them to see if they are offering virtual sessions. If you don’t have access to health insurance or your health insurance doesn’t cover therapists there are many services online, like Talkspace, offering online counseling starting at $60 a week. If you’re looking for more affordable counseling, Open Path Psychotherapy Collective offers a lifetime membership for $59, as long as you are in financial need.
Create Rituals: One of the most grounding things you can do for yourself is sticking to some form of routine. For me, that means that even though I’m working from home I still wake up when I would if I were going into the office. It gives me time to wake up, spend some time with myself and get ready to start my work day. This has been vital for me in separating “living” space from “work” space.
Craft It Out: There’s a reason those embroidery kits are all over Etsy, they’re rewarding and beautiful. But the thing no one mentions is that they are time consuming. So if you’re looking for a project to keep your hands busy give embroidery or these cool gem-by-number portraits I’ve seen all over Instagram (don’t tell my partner, but I might even get one that will live on our dining room table for the next 2 weeks 😂). And if you want something that isn’t such a commitment, maybe it’s time to take your go at that wall hanging you’ve wanted to tackle for months!
Go Ahead & pamper yourself
You know how I mentioned the APW staffer with the skincare routine? It’s me. I find that having a routine makes me feel like I have some type of control of that part of my life and the outcome is pretty sweet! Another staff member finds solace in giving herself manicures (looks like a pro did her mani every time). And if quarantine has you teetering on cutting or dyeing your own hair don’t fret, the professionals are here to help. From DIY root touch up kits by Madison Reed (Meg tested and approved!) to bang trim tutorials via Zoom from the super talented Edo Salon team they’ve got you covered.
Especially now when we’re surrounded by so much uncertainty, it’s nice to have a moment to hold onto and call your own. Sometimes all you need is 5 minutes to unlock feel good vibes so we want to share our self-care ways, whether they are 5 minute activities or projects that are ongoing.
Our Self-Care Picks
San Francisco based flower shop, Ampersand, had to pivot when the shelter in place order went into effect since floral businesses weren’t deemed essential businesses. They’re now selling care packages filled with feel good items made in the USA that might make working from home just a little bit better.
Lord Jones High CBD Bath Salts via Sephora
Fill up the tub, add your CBD bath salts, hello relaxation.
WB-1 Water Bottle via Healthish
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Easily track your daily water intake and form healthy habits with this water bottle from Healthish.
Slow North Migraine Mask via Anthropologie
Looking for migraine relief? Slow North does it again with a hot/cold scent free organic mask.
Untamed by Glennon Doyle via IndieBound
Alyssa says she hasn’t been able to put this book down. And guess what? She’s definitely not the first person that recommended this book to me.
UGG Fluff Yeah Slide via Zappos
Confession time. My partner got me these for my birthday because I liked how obnoxious they are. Turns out they’re also like fluffy clouds for your feet and come in about 20 different colors so there’s something for everyone.
I call this tea old faithful for a reason. It’s a classic that never goes out of style—or taste.
If you wax or shave this one is for you! Use this antimicrobial down there (or anywhere with hair) to prevent ingrown hairs and reduce inflammation.
Paint Your Own Earring Kit by Jill Makes via Etsy
Sign us up for this type of crafting kit. Paint a pair of earrings for your self and a matching set for your bestie too!
Hair Scalp Shampoo Massager via Amazon
This scalp massager is a game changer. Say goodbye to a dry scalp and hello to healthy hair.
Botanical Customizable Journal by Papier
Did you know keeping a journal has positive effects on your health? Make your journal extra special with this customizable journal from Papier.
Sunset Embroidery Kit by Sunday Mornings Shop via Etsy
The color palette on this desert sunset pattern was too good not to share. Ah, the great outdoors, I miss you!
U Shaped Contour Pillow via Amazon
This pillow changed my life (and my partner’s). I’m a side sleeper and have been having neck issues on top of snoring (a lot) and was waking up super cranky. After trying out every other pillow we owned I finally caved and bought this. Zero regrets, and minimal snoring!
Geranium and Patchouli Bath and Body Oil by Etta + Billie
Give me all the bath stuff, especially Etta + Billie products. They all smell amazing and are handcrafted in California.
Meg’s book recommendation is feeling super timely right about now!
Seedlip Non-Alcoholic Spirits via Food52
Unwinding at the end of the day is important. Hook yourself up with a drink (alcohol free) and don’t worry about a hangover tomorrow.
Triple Cloth Midi Dress via Lou & Grey
Dress it up, dress it down. The perfect dress for Netflix bingeing or your weekly staff Zoom meeting.
Favorite Tee Sheet Set via Pact
A comfortable bed is the first step to a good night sleep. Start with these super soft jersey sheets from Pact.
Georgia Nail Polish Set via Poketo
Test out all those Instagram #naildesign tutorials with this modern palette from Poketo.
Alone Time Door Hanger by People I’ve Loved
Because sometimes you just need some alone time.
What ways are you practicing self-care? How have you switched up your self-care routine since sheltering in place? Give us all your feel good tips in the comments!
