The Importance Of Self-Care

Happy Monday ladies. I hope you had a great weekend and didn’t go too squirrely staying inside! I got surprisingly little done considering how much free time I had. I’m watching as little news as possible because I just don’t think it’s healthy. My hands are chapped from washing but the good news is I’m caught up on all my laundry and ready to dive into the week.  Let’s talk about the importance of self-care.

Self Care

Life is on a fast track to crazy land these days and I’m doing all I can to sit this one out. This is a great time for us to all practice extreme self-care. Of course, washing our hands is top of the list and everything else the CDC suggests but I propose we take it a step further.

  • take out that special lotion you been saving because it’s too expensive to use all the time, and douse yourself in it.
  • listen to soothing music and avoid too much news
  • clean and wash out your fridge so it’s a delight to open
  • order some new books on Amazon and lose yourself in them
I have been waiting for the paperback price of The Chelsea Girls to drop but it hasn’t so I finally ordered the hardcover which is cheaper!
  • watch comedies instead of dramas on TV
  • wear soft clothes that don’t pinch or bind anywhere…my jeans are on holiday for me.
  • wear lipstick and perfume every day

Deodorant

Agent Nateur

Have you read the studies that suggest there’s a connection between aluminum and Alzheimer’s disease? I have and while there’s no conclusive evidence to prove it,  I see no reason to push my luck. I stopped cooking on aluminum cookware years ago but could not wrap my head around aluminum-free deodorant. I finally tried one and it was a sticky mess.

Aluminum Free Deodorant

A quick look around the internet turned up dozens and dozens of aluminum-free deodorants. I spent hours (keeping busy at home) reading best-of lists over the weekend and this one kept popping up so I ordered it. There’s a whole process involved in switching from aluminum-containing antiperspirants which I will share more about after I make the transition.

Slippers

We don’t wear our shoes in the house #newwhitecarpet so I wear slippers. All. The. Time. Now that we’re spending all our time at home, I decided to treat myself to a fresh pair of slippers. I never spend much on mine so I have no guilt about updating them regularly. Luckily stores are delivering so I was able to order these.

Flowers

Many of you are still having snow but spring has sprung here and everything is blooming. I can take no responsibility for what’s blooming in my yard #blackthumb but I’m cutting what has bloomed and bringing them indoors. Last week my grandson cut a huge bunch and after I showed him how to strip the leaves off the stems he made this arrangement. I love his creativity.

Toilet Paper

toilet paper roll earrings
Toilet Paper Roll Earrings

You would be shocked at how many options there are.

 

What self-care are you practicing during these stressful times?

Thanks for reading ladies and remember to wear what makes you feel confident, especially now.

 

66 Comments

  1. My office is still open although we are no longer meeting with clients. It’s funny to see the various reactions to the pandemic amongst my coworkers. Some of the comments I have heard are mind-boggling but I try to keep my sense of humor. We do have the option to work from home so I will be taking advantage of that. Meanwhile I am getting eczema on my hands from all the washing – does anyone have a recommendation for mild soap and hand cream? Currently slathering on the Aquaphor but it’s kind of greasy for work.

  2. I’m a confirmed introvert who’s happy as a clam at being told to stay home. I keep myself more than busy with reading, binge-watching Brit TV dramas & movies, plus I’ve signed up for a bunch of internet university courses & have been listening to BBC Radio Dramas (& other dramatic readings) on YouTube (they have every classic you can think of). My husband, who’s more of an extrovert, is chafing a bit but he’s a motorcycle nut & is rebuilding a vintage Harley & I think is secretly pleased at having the excuse to stay home & work on it. We both retired early 2 years ago to spend more time together & while self-quarantine wasn’t quite what we had in mind, we’re putting it to good use, deciding this is the ideal time to paint the spare room, clean the garage & get those annoying little projects done around the house that always seem to get postponed. We also go for long daily walks & try to get out on the bike when the weather cooperates (icy mountain roads & motorcycles are a bad mix but spring IS starting to kick in). All of this may sound odd as “self-care”, but I think staying active & involved in life is a good way to handle the situation. We don’t spend much time thinking about the virus let alone fretting about it (we stay informed through our province’s excellent resource websites but avoid the news & social media hysteria), & watching people panic — hoarding TP & washing their hands obsessively when they’re not actually in contact with someone or something that could transmit the virus — saddens me.

    1. I hope things settle down. It is sad to see people panic. I hope the fear eases up

  3. A huge “shoutout “ to all the amazing health care providers! Thankyou so much! I am also so grateful for our mayors and governors who are stepping up and making difficult decisions to make us all as safe as possible!
    I loved all the great ideas everyone shared today to help keep us busy. Stay strong!

  4. Right before the governor of California told me to stay home (I’m old), I had been to the nursery to lay in some gardening stuff for my new house. That will keep me busy. We have moved into a new big house with our daughter and her family, and I am the cook. That also keeps me busy. Fortunately, I really like to cook. We had stocked up before all of this hit, so we are set for a few weeks. This thing seems like a big inconvenience to me rather than a disaster, thanks to my new perspective after my house burned down in the wildfires. I am going top donate money to our local food bank, and we are going to order take out from the local restaurants to help keep them in business. We are blessed and so fortunate to be able to weather this thing financially, and I’m going to try to do what I can to help the people who will obviously suffer as their livelihoods are affected. Seeing you every day, Jennifer, will be a bright spot for me.

    1. I love what you’re doing! Stay safe and enjoy. Even though I have a black thumb, I wish I’d thought to buy some plants to play with in the garden.

  5. Francesca says:

    Hi Jennifer,
    Thank you for your post, such a joy to recieve especially now!! So appreciate it!
    Just to share the good vibes, I love British television series- not a fan of violence or carnage- but love family drama’s and well written series and my favorites are:
    Unforgotten, (crime/who done it )The Split, The River, Last Tango in Halifax (all on Amazon) anything with the actress Nicola Walker in, and works written by Sally Wainwright like Happy Valley ( brilliant acting but too violent for me) and historically fascinating and funny Gentleman Jack (HBO).
    Mum is good too on Britbox with Lesley Manville.
    And a Australian series called A Place Called Home, wonderful characters and all consuming.
    Yesterday I signed up for free courses at Harvard University on line to keep me occupied and when I can, it is raining here in California, I get outside and walk. Also summer is coming, so I working on arm exercises while watching television with hand weights!! So in two weeks when I emerge i hope to be fitter!!
    Be safe:)

    1. “A Place Called Home” is my all time favorite! I can’t recommend it enough.

    2. Thanks for the heads up on the classes! What a brilliant idea! It’s raining here too, which we need, but I’m looking forward to the sunshine. Stay safe

    3. Just finished the 4 episodes of this latest seasof Last Tango in Halifax (2020). As good as ever. If you like UK dramas, Belgravia is the latest offering – written by Julian Fellowes ofmDownton Abbey fame.

  6. Claudette says:

    Thank you for the nice post. Your grandson is very talented. The flowers are lovely.
    I have decided to look at this as a time of blessing and rewind. Blessed that I have a house, so far my family is safe and I have food to eat. Getting things done that I have put off and enjoying the birds, buds that are starting to bloom, walking and watching chick flicks as I iron.
    Do take care and be safe.

    1. We only have one TV so I don’t get to watch chick flicks often but it is my favorite thing to do while ironing too. Stay safe!

      1. You can always watch on your laptop or tablet. That’s what I do.

  7. Last week I cancelled our Mediterranean cruise. Today I’m cancelling our family reunion for this week in Florida. This afternoon I’m researching new recipes for dining with some creative table settings by candlelight to romance my husband. Tonight I’m starting to read all the books I’ve loaded on my Kindle. Oh, and since I’m “vacationing at home” I’m ordering some clothes online to look forward to. As long as I have books, cable movies, food and wine and a good attitude I can come to enjoy this time at home. Keep posting and stay positive!

  8. Vionic makes slippers, sandals and shoes in many, many styles and I have been wearing them for several years – excellent quality and they last for a long time.
    I have been using Native deodorant for a couple of years – autodelivery so it comes every couple of months.
    I’m lining up projects that I have been intending to do, including getting out my sewing machine that has been in mothballs!
    Stay well and safe.

  9. I read Chelsea Girls on my iPad. She is one of my go to authors – I’ve read all of her books. It’s good although I think I liked her other books better. A friend gave me a purse size Dr Bronner’s Lavender Hand Sanitizer that is devine! it makes your hands smell and feel wonderful.
    Thanks for keeping us going Jennifer.

    Stay safe.

  10. Sharon Smith says:

    For stress relief, I’ve started (re)watching Cheers on Netflix. Yes, it’s decades-old, but still so funny. It’s a good way to wind down before bed.

    1. Big Bang Theory is another good one!

  11. Dianne🇨🇦 says:

    Lots to good advice today Jennifer, we really have to remember that this will pass but being in the target age group is a upsetting! I’m 74. I don’t remember that fact very often.
    My 3 events today are canceled, I usually volunteer @ the cancer clinic on Monday but they said ‘no’ essential service only! I will go for a walk with my friend in the spring Sunshine 🌞
    I just finished a wonderful audio book,”The Dutch House” read by Tom Hanks.
    Looking to start a new one.
    Stay well

  12. I’m a personal trainer and we are off for two weeks.. so far. Some gyms have remained open, so, far, confusing to me, but these are confusing times. I will be walking outside when I can to prevent going stir crazy. And thank goodness for the internet. Safe safe everyone.

    1. I can’t imagine why they’re still open. It seems crazy.

  13. Pam Sledge says:

    The toilet paper earrings – haha!

  14. RayeLynn Fletcher says:

    I live in the humid, coastal South. I have been using NFusion all natural deodorant for about a year now because of the aluminum concerns. It is really effect! Even on the hottest of days last summer, it didn’t let me down. I use the roll-on, which is a little sticky, but worth the slight inconvenience. I highly recommend this product!

  15. TP earrings WOW not even a little funny

    1. I think they are humorous in a dumb way. Obviously these were all made way before the hoarding. Being able to laugh at things is healthy

  16. Thank you for this Jennifer. I am getting very bored. I have a sore throat right now and have lost my voice. It happens a lot during the winter time.
    We were going to have company but that had to be canceled. Only FaceTiming with the grands and the kids right now. Trying not to go stir crazy. I love to read. Lots of books in my pile to get through. I also have lots of materiAl. Going to sew tops and skirts for a. Far away spring. Stay safe and stay healthy!

  17. Good advise, Jennifer. We’ve been watching comedies on Netflix. I found Clark’s slippers with good support, and “working hands” is great for chapped hands. I’m going to clean out my closet this week. We are having spring temps here, so hubby and I go for walks every day. Stay healthy!

  18. BTW, the bouquet is beautiful!

  19. patricia valentic says:

    Thank you Jennifer. I agree keep calm and carry on is my motto. I too am distracting myself with activities. I believe fear is our biggest enemy. Cooking, cleaning, movies, listening to books on tape will be on my agenda. Keeping busy and relaxed works for me. patval

  20. Yesterday I scrubbed my Vionic slippers and also ordered a new pair from Zappos. They have a very firm sole and high arch support. I cannot go barefoot even in the house. They aren’t cheap but the only slippers I have found with the support I need. I order open toe for warm weather and closed toe for winter. I love them.

    1. That’s exactly what I do. I’ve been wearing that brand for years. I have a high arch and it’s the only brand that supports my arches. Love them!

    2. I was wondering about them. Thanks for the recommendation. We all need more foot support

  21. Nancy Ekdahl says:

    I am washing my hands like everyone else,, but I am also sanitizing my purse straps when I return home.
    I

    1. I’m doing my keys and steering wheel too. I haven’t been out for days but I do need to venture out today.

  22. We have Hulu and have been watching The Bob Newhart Show, the one set in Chicago in the early 70s. The humor and situations are entertaining and i am especially enjoying seeing the 70s styles for men and women. I am thankful for technology that keeps us connected electronically. We even “went to church” electronically yesterday.

    1. I’d love to watch the old shows. Googling Hulu now! Thanks

  23. Jennifer, I used to wear slippers indoors, but after I read about the danger (older people slipping and falling while wearing slippers), I decided to buy some indoor shoes (Sketchers ballet type shoes), which I only wear while inside my home. They are comfortable and stylish.

    1. By the way, I appreciate this post about self care. I feel stressed, and maybe self care is a way for me to feel better. Thank you!

  24. Violet L O'Brien says:

    Hi, I can vouch for Tom’s of Maine deodorant. I switched several months ago because of the aluminum and have been pleasantly surprised. It isn’t sticky and does the trick. Keep well, look forward to seeing your name come up on my computer. Wash, wash, wash your hands ladies!!

      1. Violet L O'Brien says:

        Hi Jennifer, This has bothered me all day. I don’t use Tom’s deodorant, I use their toothpaste. I tried the deodorant and it was too sticky. I use Lume and it is wonderful, not sticky and works great. Now I can rest knowing that I corrected that blooper I made earlier today. Thank you. Be safe and well.

  25. I’m in dental, and most likely will find out this week that non essential services should be suspended as per our regulatory body, and have the time off. I already have the habit of washing and sanitizing my hands always and battle with dry hands, I use “Working Hands”, during the winter months and this is fabulous keeping hands hands soft, during the warmer months I use my favourite lotions daily and this is just fine. When I do get time off I plan to continue with my Rosetta Stone online learning of French and Spanish. I have a home gym and will be more diligent with working out. There are are a few projects at home that could be done, but I think I’m gong to indulge in some self care. I’m looking forward to being at home, hopefully without being sick.
    Dee

  26. Joyce Reardon says:

    We are In Florida for the winter. Was supposed to get together with friends for. Home tonight, but we’ve canceled. All of our company has cancelled I’d love to go home to MA! Thank heavens for FaceTime with my grandchildren.
    I am nervous, but reading too and I am a cookie decorator, so I’ll continue that! Stay safe all. Wash those hands!!

  27. Paulette Levy says:

    Vases of tulips, walking, walking walking……cleaning and cooking, cooking and cleaning. I’m out if ideas!
    I’m in book clubs but finished these books. Our local library is closed.
    However just learned a small local bookstore will run out books to us in our cars if we order online or phone. That’s an option. Right now I’m re reading an old favorite by Louise Penny.
    I feel like a washer woman. My poor hands are taking a hit! I do use creams after washing them and sanitizing and wiping down counters but it’s not helping all that much. Sadly……😟. Staying healthy…..hope so.

    1. My hands and nails are a wreck! Our library is closed too. That’s why I ordered in Amazon. Hopefully there’ll be able to deliver to me. Stay safe Paulette

  28. I do not understand this obsession with toilet paper. Things are pretty much the same as when we shop before a hurricane!Trying to get things done that I have not been able to because I have been in and our of the hospital for the past few months. fortunately nothing life threating, but irritating.Just when I am beginning to feel like getting out,along comes Covid19, but i am trying to make lemonade and enjoy the extra time

    1. I’ve been in and out of hospitals way more than I like too. The toilet paper thing puzzles me too. I’d rather have tea, bread and milk. Stay well

  29. Unfortunately, I am obsessed by the COVID19 and have been watching and reading the news constantly, so I have stocked up my freezer, fridge and pantry to limit visits to the food shops- and cancelling my holiday flights/hotels for May. Now that is done, I am going to flop by my pool and catch up reading the books I out aside for just this opportunity. Jennifer, if you like comedies, try and catch the UK series, The Windsors (about the British Royal Family) It is hilariously funny and very spot on.

    1. Laying by the pool with a great book sounds perfect. Enjoy and relax. Best medicine in the world.

  30. I’m up for all – except the toilet paper roll earrings! Unfortunately, because I work in health care, those breaks are few right now.

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