Day 15 in the 30-Day Self Care Challenge

Studies of the benefits of massage demonstrate that it is an effective treatment for reducing stress, pain, and muscle tension.

Other helpful benefits of massage may include: relief from anxiety, digestive disorders, fibromyalgia, headaches, insomnia related to stress, injuries, and joint pain. Some people just enjoy a massage because it can make one feel cared for and enjoy a sense of comfort.

If laying on a sheet half-naked while someone is kneading you isn’t your thing, you may want to try Thai or Tuina massage, – you keep your clothes on. Or try Reflexology, where only the pressure points in your feet and hands are worked on. Still not for you? You can do it yourself!

Copyright 2019 Taru Nieminen

Day 14 of the 30-Day Self Care ChallengeRead Instead of Binge-Watching Netflix

Perhaps your vice is Hulu, Amazon Prime TV, flipping through cable stations, or other screen time. This may be SO hard for you, as it is for me.

I could watch and then re-watch Hawaii Five-O three times before picking up a book. And I LOVE reading! It’s just easier to flip on the tele and escape. Uh, yeah, I’m in Hawaii all the time! 😉

As a beautiful friend remarked on their podcast: “If you’re not watching for entertainment or education, you’re escaping.” What you’re escaping, well, that may be something you need to figure out.

A good book can take you around the world in your imagination.

Copyright 2019 Taru Nieminen

Day 13 in the 30-Day Self Care Challenge

Unless this is part of your job, there should be no reason why this couldn’t work. If you’re addicted, you may feel a slight tinge in your chest as you’re reading this…

The more reason for you to take a break.

We are so enthralled with everyone else’s lives of Facebook and the feel-good messages we may receive when someone likes our tweet (or retweets it – now you have clout!) that we forget to live “reality.”

Let’s take a breather and instead, make good food to eat, bake something for the fam, go for a walk, take pictures just for the fun of it (but NO posting!), paint, draw, read, write, etc., etc.

P.S. Let us know how you did… or did not…

Copyright 2019 Taru Nieminen

Day 12 – 30-Day Self Care Challenge

Taking a nap or just relaxing can be tough. This could be the toughest of the challenges yet. Especially if you’re in the midst of the work week.

Often we think of napping or taking a bit of a break, but then –  just don’t. It feels like there is so much going on; there just isn’t enough time…

Yet, the few minutes (even 10 minutes helps!) of relaxed downtime spent with your eyes closed can make a world of difference in your outlook.

Copyright 2019 Taru Nieminen

Day 11 – 30-Day Self Care Challenge

Taking a walk by yourself can give you tons of insights into what’s going on in your life. Walking in nature can be an immediate energy and mood boost. Try it alone and without your phone!

Copyright 2019 Taru Nieminen

Day 10 of 30-Day Self Care Challenge

Take a Bubble Bath or a Long, Hot Shower with Essential Oils

The aroma of essential oils may boost your energy levels, wake you up, or make you sleepy. Depends on which one you choose. Peppermint will wake you up, lavender will make you relaxed, while orange and grapefruit will boost your energy. Here’s a quick guide to 10 different essential oils with an infographic!

Or try Epsom salt (magnesium) to relax in a tubful of warm water. If you don’t have a tub, try rubbing magnesium oil on your body after your shower. (If you’ve never used either, take care to limit your use, as magnesium has a muscle relaxing compound, and can make you sleepy! Oh, and it can also act as a fantastic way to combat constipation! 😉

Copyright 2019 Taru Nieminen