As we are headed into the new year 2025, one of my goals is to prioritize my self care. While trying to build my business this past 6 months, I have been slacking in this area to put it lightly. If something doesn’t change, I will be on the bus to burn out city sooner than later, yikes! I know from past experience, all it takes is awareness and a little consistent effort every day to reap huge rewards. Not only does it make me feel good, but there are so many benefits that often we don’t associate coming from self care. So here are some things that I have put in my daily calendar to remind myself I am worth it and if I want to be more productive in my business, it starts with taking care of myself.

Better Sleep Hygiene (this is a big one for me, because you know – menopause). Improving sleep hygiene can significantly enhance the quality of your sleep. Here are some tips that work for me:

• consistent sleep schedule to regulate your body’s internal clock
• A soothing bedtime environment, relaxing music, meditate, read
• Cool, dark & quiet bedroom
• Limit screen time an hour before bed
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol or large meals before bed
• Limit long naps during the day, even tho it sounds tempting 😴
• Limit fluid intake before bed

Nutritious Fuel for your body I have to admit, I have a sweet tooth and if I’m feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, the sugar gremlin gets the best of me, so here are some practices to fuel your body for optimal health and energy:

• Balanced diet
• Stay hydrated, water is life, so drink up!
• Choose whole foods over processed
• Include lean proteins and healthy fats
• Limit sugar and processed foods
• Practice mindful eating and listen to your body

Make time to unwind, carve out 10-15 mins for yourself (definitely more if your schedule permits) to take some deep breaths, practice some meditation, journal your thoughts or take a little cat nap. I promise you, this practice will give you mental and physical clarity, focus and energy. You are worth some down time to refresh!

Move your body! I don’t have to tell you what kind of rewards and benefits you get from some movement, we were designed to move. Whatever kind of exercise you enjoy, do that! Walk, dance, play with the dog, lift weights, run, yoga, stretch, just get moving for at least 10 – 20 mins out of your day. Break it up into a couple 10 min sessions or longer if you have the time. Even a small session of movement can have huge benefits and that = a better you.

Get yourself outside, Never underestimate the power of getting out in nature. Fresh air is like gold for the soul. There is something about breathing in nature and being surrounded by beauty. Take some time to get outside, even if its just for 5 mins to take a few deep breaths and notice what’s around you. Its good for the soul and that is self care.

Daily Affirmations, I have some affirmations posted on my mirror and I read them every morning. Negative self talk is something that takes time to reprogram. We can do that with intention by practicing and reprogramming the thoughts and beliefs we have running on the hamster wheel inside our mind. Doing this practice over anything else I have committed to has produced the most profound changes within me and created the biggest mindset shifts. Here are a few you can try:

“I attract positivity and abundance into my life.”

“I am worthy of love and respect.”

“I am grateful for the blessings in my life.”

“I believe in my abilities and trust myself.”

“I radiate positivity and attract positive energy.”

“I am resilient and can overcome any obstacle.”

“I deserve happiness and fulfillment.”

Reflection & Meditation It took me a while to get the hang of meditation and to calm the noise in my mind, but when I consistently sat down daily, even for 5 mins to start, soon enough it was one of the most enjoyable things in my routine. When I got intentionally quiet, I learned to listen for the messages my body and mind were telling me, the stillness I was craving. There are lots of guided meditations on YouTube, Spotify or Apple music to start with, some for the morning to start your day or the evening to unwind. So go ahead, get still and listen to your bad-ass self! Then journal what you feel. Get things off your mind and onto a piece of paper, even if it does not make sense in the moment, sometimes writing your thoughts can get them out of your head so you can get clear, focused and calm.

Moving into the new year with a clear plan for more self care will create a space for you to become the best version of yourself. When you put yourself first, you have more to give to the rest of your life, relationships, work and your health. Small changes in your daily routine can have profound benefits, so try it out and see for yourself. I will be making a commitment to myself right along side you ❤️😁

If you want more Self Care tips and practices, grab a copy of my free Self care Guide here https://kristazaft.com/self-care-guide

Happy New Year!

Love