Taking Care of Yourself in 2021

With anxieties and tensions high during the pandemic, it is easy to forget the positive aspects of our world. One thing the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us is how important it is to prioritize your mental health. According to Forbes, more than 1/3 of American adults displayed clinical signs of anxiety and/or depression since the beginning of the pandemic, along with other mental illnesses.

One thing we can take away from the unfortunate events of 2020 is how important self-care is in our everyday lives. Whether it’s a walk to the mailbox or going to the local grocery store to buy yourself flowers, I hope you will find some of these ideas beneficial!

1. Drink green tea to improve brain function -- Green tea has been proven to reduce stress, boost metabolism, and promote better sleep. According to Healthline, it also stimulates brain activity! It is best to drink in the morning. Get your favorite mug ready!
2. Phone a friend -- Check your best friend’s Snap Map. They’re home alone, bored, too? Give them a call! Talking to people you love reduces depression and anxiety.
3. The obvious – face masks (the kind we love!) -- First step, find a moisturizing face mask that works well with your skin. Apply it, turn on your favorite TV show, and wait! Once you rinse it off, your face will feel smooth and hydrated.
4. Write yourself a love letter -- Yes, you read that right! One of our most powerful tools is our own minds. Use self-love affirmations to boost your confidence!
5. Get moving! -- Exercising stimulates the production of endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that boost our mood. I’m not saying you need to do a Chloe Ting challenge, but you can find fun exercises suitable for you! Maybe you want to take a jog around your neighborhood, or maybe you want to hit the gym and lift weights. Find activities that make you feel good!
6. My personal favorite – make some jewelry for yourself or your friends! -- One of the hobbies I developed in 2020 was making the viral wire wrapped rings, along with necklaces, keychains, earrings and more. Whether jewelry making is your thing or not, find a hobby that brings out your creative side!

In all, self-care is not only beneficial to you, but it’s beneficial to your relationships with those closest to you. When you take time for yourself, you’re more likely to be at ease throughout your day and maintain healthy conversations regularly. Prioritizing your wellbeing in 2021 will help minimize the overwhelming stress that many endured during 2020.