Self-care is the theme of 2023. We’ve all been through a lot lately, from a pandemic and inflation to intense autumn colds. That’s on top of it being the season of giving. So, we need to put ourselves first more than ever.
“We’re all giving to others right now, buying gifts for others, and things can get frantic between events and holiday parties and other outings,” Dr. Kathryn Smerling, NYC Psychotherapist and family therapy professional, told NEW YOU. “ It’s important to pamper yourself because it feels good and a gift to yourself. It can be hard to prioritize ourselves, but it is essential for us to do that. It’s the old thing — put on your oxygen mask first, and then take care of the people around you.”
How can you practice a little self-pampering? Here are four ways to practice self-care with expert tips and the products that will make it happen.
Make Your House a Home
We spend more time at home with remote or hybrid work than ever. This can make it challenging to find sanctuary in our own houses. But San Diego-based interior designer Stefanie Mullen said simple tweaks and items could make all the difference.
“Have a special place in the house that is just yours and fill it with things that bring you joy and comfort,” she told NEW YOU. “Splurge on a fabulous chair. Have a special scented candle you light only when alone in your quiet space. Keep your favorite books and magazines in this space, and give yourself the gift of finding time in it daily. Even if it’s only for a few minutes.”
As far as a fabulous chair goes, the Leisure Power Recliner Chair from Crate and Barrel is a great option, as it has all the comfort of a classic recliner with a lavish loft style. Pair it with a Baies Scented Candle from Diptyque, and you’ll have an instant haven.
Pamper Yourself
Unfortunately, making it to the spa isn’t always possible. So, pampering yourself at home is key to filling your cup in between those spa visits. To do that, draw yourself a bath and get the Maude Wind Down Kit with an oil, a bubble bath, body wash, and bath salts to turn any nightly rinse into a luxurious one.
Then look into investing in hotel-worthy bedding. “Good money is spent on comfortable blankets and pillows that will last,” said Mullen. “The best blankets are the ones that get softer every time you wash them. Fleece-lined Turkish blankets are an absolute joy.” This Kilim Fleece Lined Throw is an excellent choice.
Invest in Yourself
Even with the best intentions, starting a new routine in the new year can be tricky. Take some time to set your goals now and subscribe to educational courses or explore a fitness membership that actually fits into your lifestyle. Coursera is an excellent website for online courses ranging from marketing to design. For fitness, LIT, with on-demand and live classes, is a fun low-impact training option–and a sustainable routine that you won’t get tired of. There are thousands of classes to choose from strength training, pilates to cardio, recovery, and more—ranging from 10-60 minutes. And if you’re ready to take it to the next level, you can upgrade your home gym with their all-in-one devices like the LIT Strength Machine and LIT AXIS.
Feel Good and Do Good
One of the best ways to feel better about yourself is by helping others. But you can do that while helping yourself feel good too. How? By buying from brands that give back. EBY (stands for “Empowered By You”) is a line of size-inclusive (XS-4X) seamless underwear, bralettes, and shapewear where 10% of the proceeds from every sale help fund microfinance loans to women. This consistently builds financial sustainability for women and their families. Another great option is Lush’s cocoa butter lotion. Not only will it leave your skin silky soft, but the brand donates 100% of the price (minus taxes) to organizations that protect human rights, environmental justice, and animal rights. So, once again, you’re taking care of yourself and others.
Even though this time of year is filled with holiday cheer, it can also be very stressful. So, practicing self-care and pampering yourself to feel your best is important. These gifts are just the start; ultimately, it’s about what makes you happy. Go ahead and splurge a little. YOU deserve it!
