The phrase Self Care is thrown around a lot; and while we all know it’s important to look after ourselves, actually doing it when you’re already at your limit is another thing.

For any new action to stick, it needs to easily fit into your existing routine - or basic psychology tells us it’ll go in the too hard basket.

So if you find yourself stuck at home and feeling low right now, here’s a few small stress relievers that can make a big difference.

1. Bake 
You’re already cooking most days, so why not get a little more creative in the kitchen?  Whether it’s a complicated beef bourguignon or a packet cake mix, baking is a form of mindfulness that’s as delicious as it is effective.

2. Listen to a podcast
It’s easy to get caught up in bad news these days, but consciously choosing the media you consume is a powerful wellness choice. Cue up some positive podcasts (try Oprah’s Soul Sundays or The One You Feed) for a hit of positivity.

3. Create a ‘bookend’ in your day
Being out of your usual routine can find you floundering and unanchored.  Creating a few simple steps at the beginning and end of your days (like a ‘bookend’) is incredibly useful.   This could be as ambitious as a morning workout or as simple as 3 minutes of meditation.   At night, using scent to relax can be useful – your nightly bookend might include spraying your pillow with a Sleep Aroma Mist, or writing down 3 things you are grateful for today.

With daily repetition your new bookends will calm the chaos in your mind and help you feel safe and secure. 

4. Try a DIY beauty treatment
If now’s not the time to get stuck into a good skincare routine, when is? Take advantage of more home time to make a facemask, have an Epsom salt bath with essential oils, or do your own mani/pedi.

5. Use your scents
Smell is one of the most powerful senses we have, and essential oils have been used for centuries to lift mood. Although diffusers are incredibly popular right now, you don’t have to use one to take advantage of aromatherapy.   One simple way is to use a Roll-On – like these - just dab on your wrists for an instant boost.  Aroma Mists are also wonderful, and can be kept in your home office to help perk you up when fatigue or boredom sets in.

Finally if you’re having trouble getting motivated in the morning, try an aroma-shower.  Pour a little eucalyptus oil on a facewasher and put it in the bottom of the shower.  The heat will vaporize the oils for a refreshing wakeup call. 

6. Clever hand washing
Washing your hands more lately? Make it work for your wellbeing, too.  Choose a hand wash with amazing essential oils, and after you squirt it on your hands, cup your hands around your nose and inhale.   Then lather as usual.  Just the act of taking these few, conscious deep breaths a few times a day will help you relax.

7. Marie Kondo your home
Feel free to toss this suggestion if you like, but having a project is really important. Cleaning out your wardrobe, kitchen plastics cupboard, pantry or fridge can give you a sense of purpose and achievement.  Uncluttered space = uncluttered mind.

8. Reach out
We all need human connection; it’s the food and water of the soul. If your normal interaction with people face to face has lessened, making an effort to connect in other ways is vital.  Facetime friends and family, join a live virtual exercise class or art class, or even just wave and nod to people you pass while walking.  Know that you are not alone.  There is great power in our collective experience right now, and you’d be surprised how many people are feeling exactly how you are.  For more tips visit Beyond Blue https://coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au/ 

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