Health and fitness are some things we can take control of during this unique time in our lives. They’re something we can grab a hold of and structure to our lifestyles with the help of professionals, news materials, and the internet. Sometimes what we forget to focus on is self-care. What are we doing to relax and take care of our bodies before and after workouts to make sure we are completely rejuvenated for the next day?  

Below you will find a fun and creative 5 day self-care plan that keeps you fully balanced between your work shifts and your workouts. These are simple and easy ways to remind your body that self-care is important. These activities can be done alone, with a partner, or with the entire family.  Remember to add this to your routine and enjoy the simple things. Together we are strong! 

➔ Monday: ​ Mask Mondays! Grab a facial cleanse or two and make it a mask night. Wash the day away, relax and close your eyes to your favorite mask. Masks can be found in Publix, Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and Amazon. Here are a few of my favorites: Charcoal, Lavender, Cucumber, and Oatmeal. These are easy to peel off, and they smell amazing. 

 ➔ Tuesday:  ​Epsom Salt Bath! Let’s just say I love Tuesdays. Fill your tub up with ½ a bag of epsom salt, your favorite oil, and let your muscles rejuvenate. Sometimes working out or even just working behind a computer all day can cause the muscles to tense. This is the perfect way to allow them to heal and recover.

 ➔ Wednesday:​ Escape in your mind. Grab your phone and go to Pandora, YouTube, Spotify, or any app you use for your music. Type in massage radio and let your mind do the rest. This is a great way to relax before falling asleep at night. Smooth flowing music tends to take the mind to another place and allow you to release from the world in your own space. Find your station, turn the lights low, and allow the music to relax your mind before bed.

 ➔ Thursday: ​DND! We all are attached to our phones. Work, social media, texting, or just because it’s a form of entertainment during these times. Well guess what? It’s ok to disconnect for an hour or two. Let your phone go once your day has ended. Read a book, find something on tv you have not watched before, spend time with those around you, or just enjoy some “me” time. Work and social media can make you miss out on the simple things around you. Take an hour or two and disconnect and make it about you. 

➔ Friday: ​Fresh Air! Start the weekend off with some fresh air. After your day winds down enjoy a walk in the fresh air. Take the dogs on a different route or just take a walk alone. Clear your mind of the week. Enjoy and take in the simple things around you.  

I hope these 5 exercises bring you some peace during this time that we are living in. Remember it’s the simple things. Stay well and safe. Together we are and will be stronger.