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Year-Round Self Care

by Sarah Rodden


With the changing seasons comes changes in my self-care routine. Similar to the seasons, self-care needs are always in flux. Self-care needs for me depend greatly on how I feel, which is largely impacted by seasonal changes to weather and activities. Self-care for me has become based on listening to what my body needs and noticing what effect the seasons have on my physical and mental well-being.


Fall

The fall season is accompanied by a sense of relaxation and excitement for activities. Taking the time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the season is always the most beneficial option to implement self-care. First, fall makes me want to prioritize walks in the fallen leaves, taking advantage of the brisk air before it gets too cold. Seeing the myriad of colors intertwined in the branches above and covering the sidewalks underfoot always gives me a calm and happy chance to unwind from my day. Second, I love to try new recipes full of fall veggies. Whether it’s pumpkin curry or roasted Brussel sprouts, enjoying fall favorites is one of my favorite ways to implement self-care. Third, fall is always the perfect excuse for a little retail therapy. With back-to-school season and lower temperatures, it’s the perfect time to treat yourself to some new statement pieces.


Winter

I find myself especially needing to prioritize self-care in winter. As a lover of the sun and of being outdoors, the winter gloom impacts my mental and physical well-being significantly. The winter weather is especially hard on my skin, causing excessive dryness, so taking a long bath or applying a hydrating face mask are the perfect remedies. My second favorite remedy for the cold is making a nice, hot cup of tea. Chamomile tea with a little honey soothes the soul and helps fight the cold weather. My third favorite self-care trick for winter is practicing daily yoga. A simple daily yoga flow helps with relaxation and provides a fun way to stay active indoors. Using these simple tricks has helped me get through the winter season and cultivate excitement for spring.


Spring

Spring is accompanied by a sense of rebirth. This season is centered around starting fresh and putting yourself first. With new flowers blooming around every corner, my favorite way to prioritize self-care is by taking long walks through the bright green forests. Spring is the perfect time for a nice closet deep clean. Deep cleaning my closet and finding pieces to donate reduces stress and clears out unnecessary clutter. The third way I love to prioritize self-care in this season is by taking time to journal. Whether it’s at a coffee shop or by the river, journaling provides the perfect opportunity to reconnect with yourself.


Summer

The season of waterfall hikes and long days, summer is full of opportunities for self-care. One of my favorite summer self-care tips is picking fresh berries at local farms. Enjoying a fresh tasty snack is a fun way to appreciate the sunshine and support local businesses! Second, I love taking the time to enjoy the outdoors by going on long hikes to iridescently blue natural pools. Taking the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful outdoors and spend time in the sun helps decrease stress and boost serotonin. The last way I love to incorporate self-care in this season is by taking up a new hobby. Whether that be painting or making beaded bracelets, summer is the perfect time to try new things.


Self-care for me has been a journey. I feel like I have previously struggled with trying to maintain a strict routine and habits, but I think the most valuable lesson I’ve learned is that self-care is whatever meets your needs. Self-care can be as simple as taking a walk or as complex as a 10-step skincare routine. Taking time to listen to what you need is what allows self-care to be beneficial.

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