By Let’s be real: the daily grind gets overwhelming. From stuffy commutes to work dramas and relentless notifications in between, modern life can leave us feeling frazzled.
That’s why self-love is so important. Carving out time to invest in your happiness can make all the difference in kicking stress to the kerb – and it’s safe to say there are plenty of options out there. Get started with these simple ways to treat yourself today.
Listen to uplifting podcasts
There’s nothing like some audio therapy for a temporary escape from everyday disarray. Stimulate your ears, and your brain, with a podcast that makes you feel good.
Try life-affirming listens like Selfie, which offers refreshingly honest conversations about how to manage the pressures of life and look after your wellness. Or bring some Oprah Winfrey into your day with SuperSoul Conversations. Her happiness-inducing podcast is full of interviews with incredible thought leaders, creatives and health experts about how to find personal fulfilment.
Treat yourself
Certain foods are a guaranteed mood-booster so what better excuse to indulge in a mouthwatering treat as an act of self-love? Luckily, Häagen-Dazs has just launched a new gelato, packed with premium ingredients and a richness that feels like true indulgence.
And the best bit? There's just 150 calories per mini-cup, so you can enjoy the sweet hit guilt-free. Permissible indulgence? That's the jackpot! Get stuck in while you binge on your favourite Netflix show or invite your friends over for a feelgood party.
Be more Zen
When your head is whirling with a zillion thoughts, a moment of mindfulness can make all the difference. So instead of another idle Instagram scroll, why not give yourself a chance to clear your mind and find some calm?
Meditation isn’t new, but it is scientifically proven to make you feel good, and is becoming more vital as anxiety levels soar among young people. Handily, there are lots of apps to guide you into a state of Zen, like Headspace and Calm. Simply find a quiet space, get comfortable, put on your headphones and enjoy 10 minutes of time out.
Make bath time better than ever
It sounds clichéd but a long, hot bath is one of the most relaxing things ever. Light a candle, drop in some bath salts, slather on a face mask, let the heat relax your muscles and... suddenly you’re in Bali.
This is a nice moment to bring in some essential oils. They’re an easy way to banish stress, anxiety and bad moods in seconds. Post-bath, massage or spritz onto skin. Mix them with a base oil first, paying special attention to your pulse points, then let the oils work their magic, especially if you're bathing before bedtime. Lavender is the go-to for relaxation, but clary sage and bergamot are also dreamy.
Move! Get those endorphins going
When it comes to escaping from screen time, an exercise class really can’t be beaten. A full 60 minutes with your phone in a locker and an instructor telling you what to do allows your mind to focus on nothing but your body. A hot yoga class is brilliant for letting off steam, or try HIIT to shake off a long day spent at your desk.
If classes aren’t your bag, get outside and go for a walk or run instead. The added benefit of being in nature with a good helping of fresh air can be a game-changer. Ask a friend to join you to up those happiness levels a little further. Getting active within your day, even if it’s taking the stairs instead of the lift, might not seem like much, but exercise is proven to boost your long-term wellness.
Just say no
One tip for self-care that often gets overlooked is setting boundaries. It’s no wonder that when you try to do everything, be everywhere, please everyone, you end up feeling knackered. So if you’re out of balance, be ruthless with your limits and push back. Knowing when to say ‘no’ gives you the time to gather your strength and indulge in some me-time instead. It’s an act of self-preservation that becomes easier the more you practise it.
Add some self-love to your day with the new Häagen-Dazs gelato
