Are you feeling the weight of a late summer slump? Do you feel like you need a vacation but don’t have the budget or the time to get away? If so, then now is the perfect time to reconnect with yourself through a summer self-care staycation. Whether you simply dedicate a weekend to yourself or take an extended period off work to enjoy some you time at home, making space for this type of focused self-care can help you relax, rejuvenate, and recenter, so that you feel better equipped to tackle the challenges of daily life head on when you get back to your normal daily routine.
Why self-care matters
Self-care isn’t just a buzzword thrown around by influencers on TikTok. It’s an important process that should be interwoven into your life. However, sometimes we need a little extra care and some time to step away from our normal routines to focus on ourselves. That’s where a self-care staycation can make all the difference.
It’s important to remember that self-care isn’t selfish. By making your physical, emotional, and mental care needs a priority in your life, you’ll be better able to bring your best self to your professional life and personal relationships.
What to include in your summer self-care staycation
A summer self-care staycation can help you discover what your life is missing and how to remedy that. It should include activities to tend to your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Ideally, you’ll unplug and turn your phone off for at least one full day, if not longer—just be sure to keep a line open for emergencies and let your loved ones know you’ll be going dark before you unplug. Include the following activities to build an amazing retreat without ever leaving home.
- At-home spa treatments – Now is the time to break out those fancy skincare products and pamper yourself with some relaxing at-home spa treatments. Light a candle and run a bath, then follow it up with a homemade face mask or foot soak. Finish off with a quartz face roller to increase circulation and revitalize the skin.
- Meditation – Along with some physical relaxation, it’s important to give your mind a rest by practicing guided meditation. There are tons of meditation apps out there to help you get started, allowing you to quiet the mind and simply live in the moment—okay you might need to turn your phone on for this one!
- Inspirational reading – Even if you aren’t the type of person who reads to relax, reading can be an integral part of your self-care routine, especially if you choose the right book. With so many inspirational self-help books out there, you can easily find one to motivate you and boost your mood.
- Exercise – It’s no secret that exercise is good for your health, but when you are incorporating exercise as part of your self-care routine, it’s essential to choose physical activity that you like doing. Don’t go for a run if you hate running! Try dancing, yoga, cycling, or other creative ways to get moving. As long as you’re moving your body, you’re doing something good for yourself.
- Forest bathing – When was the last time you simply went outside for the sake of enjoying nature? Most people do not prioritize being in nature, but being outside among the trees can have considerable benefits for your health and wellbeing. Consider practicing the art of forest bathing. This is an activity that involves slowly moving through a natural area, allowing your senses to guide you. The point is not to get your heart rate up or get to any specific destination. Take note of the different sights, sounds, smells, and textures of the area around you.
How to make an ongoing commitment to self-care
Dedicating an extended period to self-care can be an amazing way to recharge, but it’s important not to lose sight of self-care practices in your daily routine. Keep a weekly check in with yourself on your calendar and use this time to assess how you’re feeling and what you need to keep moving ahead.
If you’re struggling with guilt or a lack of motivation that’s hindering your self-care routine, you may benefit from talk therapy to get on the right track with your mental and emotional health. Walmart Health Virtual Care makes it easy and affordable to seek talk therapy and attend appointments virtually, on your preferred schedule.
