Why self-indulge? Taking care of your mental health by putting you first can go a long way towards improving your overall well-being. It’s not always easy to put yourself first, especially when you are a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, etc. When you are so focused on everyone else’s needs, there’s not always enough time in the day to take time for you. But this vicious cycle can actually take you farther and farther away from a healthy life. Pushing yourself to the limits and never taking time for yourself can affect everything that you do. It can run you down and make you depressed.  Taking time for yourself to self-indulge does not mean you’re taking time away from others.

Here are the top 3 ways to self-indulge:

  1. Have a spa day

Picture a calm, tranquil environment with soft, harmonious music surrounding you. Flickering candles light the room with a romantic glow, emitting a fragrant smell that tends to put your mind and senses at ease.

The waiting room is spectacular and relaxed. Herbal teas, glasses of wine, and an array of beauty products are for your taking. But, don’t forget the treatments.  Manicures, pedicures, facials, and massages will take you to another time and place…away from the hustle and bustle of daily living.

  1. Soak in a hot bath with aromatherapy

What do you look forward to after a long and tiring day at work? Soaking in hot water with bubble soaps and scented candles! Of course, for this bathing experience, make sure nobody is at home. This will not only lower your stress levels, but enhance all your senses. For a better experience, dim the lights, have some wine and play some relaxing music. Your aromatherapy experience helps to alleviate anxiety, eliminates headaches, induces sleep, and strengthens your immune system.

  1. Take a nap

Ah! Now you might think, is this really an idea of pampering yourself? It absolutely is! Lay down on freshly washed cotton sheets, relax and just listen to soothing music.  Even if you don’t sleep, at least you’re relaxing. Did you know that taking an afternoon nap could help you feel energized and revitalized? Unfortunately, in most companies the concept of a mid-afternoon nap has yet to be embraced.

So next time you’re “working from home” or have some free time on the weekend, curl up in bed or on the couch and snuggle in for a quick nap. But remember…limit your nap to no more than 20 minutes, otherwise you’ll feel groggy.

So, take time to self-indulge, pamper your mind, body, heart, and soul.  Sometimes you have to take care of you before you can take care of others.