Self Care Sunday: Candle Appreciation Post

Sundays for me have always been busy, with either work or social commitments piling up, left over from the rest of the week, so it can be hard for me to kick back and relax. Now, with a little help from some simple pleasures, just an hour out of my day can be spent away from screens and inboxes for a much-needed dose of self care.

What is self-care?

Self care means something different to everyone, but for me, it means to truly listen to your body, and give yourself what you need, without guilt or distraction. This could be as simple as having a lie-in with some breakfast in bed rather than dragging yourself to the gym after an exhausting week, or as extravagant as going on a spa break with your girlfriends for no other reason than to truly relax. Sometimes, I think it's going against your instincts, whether that be ignoring thoughts to go on fad diets, reply to work emails in the middle of the night, go out partying with people you don't actually like, or whatever it is that is prohibiting you from caring for your own basic needs.

Why practice self-care?

Personally, learning to say to myself 'STOP' has been the real turning point for me in recovering from depression and anxiety stemming from my eating disorder. It goes beyond 'Treat Yo Self' culture- which can often be just as destructive (eg. getting into debt going on crazy online shopping sprees to cheer yourself up), it's about giving yourself time to rest and recuperate. This Sunday, instead of scrolling through Instagram until 3am or drinking a glass of wine or 3 in front of the TV, take a warm bubble bath with a good book and some delicious smelling candles and breathe. Your body, and brain, will thank you when Monday comes along.

Self-care favourites: Books

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood, £7.49, Waterstones

Stoner by John Williams, £6.99, Waterstones

What are your favourite books at the moment? I am trying to start reading more fiction, as all I really read is a large collection of fashion books, so comment your recommendations, please!

Fancy getting 20% off Evil Queen candles? Simply head over to cherrysodajewellery.co.uk/brand/evil-queen and enter the code URBANITY20 at the checkout!

 

 

ethical brandsRuth MacGilp