There are days that can feel overwhelming. I get it. There are so many things on a women’s to-do list. Tasks for husband, children, career, household chores, grocery shopping, cooking…. Okay, let’s stop there. I don’t want this post to stress you. Simply put, you need to learn ways to love yourself. Me, too!

The fact is, we spend so much time doing for others that we sometimes forget our own self-love. When that happens, anxiety can set in and we can become paralyzed to what to do. This is not the time to try to make self-care decisions. Our brain is on overload and can’t concentrate. With this in mind, here is a list, completely incomplete, of actions you can turn to often. Loving yourself on a regular basis may help you experience anxiety episodes less often. Preventive care is always the best practice.

Oh So Simple

• There’s something about fuzzy socks that makes me feel warm and cozy.
• Who doesn’t feel relaxed in comfy pajamas. You have my permission: DITCH THE BRA.
• There is no rule that yoga pants is for exercise only. Go ahead and slip them on.

Get Out of Your Head

• Our brain can become overloaded with all the tasks. Braindump. Once we get them out of our head and onto paper, it becomes so much more manageable. But don’t stop there. Otherwise, it’s just another to-do list. Decide upon when each task will be completed. Add it to your calendar.
• Stop the negative talk. We all do it. Learn to talk to yourself the way you would to your best friend. Yes, you are ENOUGH! All of them. Pretty enough. Smart enough. Capable enough. etc.
• Equally important is what we do say to ourselves. Remember who you are. God says we are chosen, accepted, loved, forgiven, and so much more.
• Be kind to yourself. You get to be human, just like the rest of us. You absolutely WILL make mistakes. Lots of them and in all areas of life. There is no such thing as the perfect mom, spouse, employee, friend, etc. When you mess up (and oh, my friend, you absolutely will), own up to it, apologize, learn from it, and BE KIND to yourself.

Use God’s Resources

• The beach is my favorite place for de-stressing. There is something about those ocean waves that’s soothing. The sight and sound delivers tranquility for me.
• Sunshine. Get outdoors and get some. Whether it’s sitting on your patio or going on a hike, the sun is powerful. It can improve your mood, help with depression, and promotes better sleep (which helps reduce anxiety).
• People. Well some of them, anyway. Who’s in your home with whom you can snuggle? A toddler? Spouse? Dog? A tree? (Okay, that’s outside your home, but you get the idea). The oxytocin released during hugging reduces the stress hormone and helps you to relax. If you have high blood pressure, go for extra hugs. It reduces your numbers.
• To watch a beautiful sunset is amazingly peaceful. I’m a sleeper, so I haven’t seen sunrises as often. However, if you’re an early riser, enjoy the beautiful colors of the morning sunrise. Personally, I would pair it with a cup of tea.

Products That Help

• Magnesium is known to reduce the stress hormone.
• Lavender and Chamomile isn’t just for babies. It helps adults relax, too.
• Essential Oils are powerfully healing without the side-effects.
• Ginger and Sea Salt Body Rub is my ultimate relaxation products. There’s nothing like our Ahhh… at the DIY Spa.

What would you add to the list? Please share them with me. Each of us have unique preferences. I would love to hear what helps you to combat anxiety before it begins.