How I stay connected to myself

As an artist, my schedule can get quite hectic with deadlines and a never ending to-do list. Due to chronic illness, I also have to stay on top of my health. This makes it even more important to take breaks during the day (which, truthfully, I am not doing nearly enough). Because of this I am always looking for small, accessible ways to take some time in my day to unload.

Here are five things that work for me when I am in need of a little self-care:

1. Music

Either on a loud volume or with my headphones on, music helps me to move away from my head into my body. If you happen to have the time and/or are in the mood for learning a new skill: learning how to play an instrument will definitely get your mind off daily stressors. For me, it’s the drums.

2. Masala chai (or any tea really)

I’m a sucker for good tea. Water at the right temperature infused with spices, fresh ginger, tea leaves, some milk of your choosing and you’re good to go. Not only are the spices good for your health, chai makes your belly happy and it is the most heartwarming and comforting way to treat yourself.

3. Quick exercise

When I’m too tired to follow an extensive exercise regiment or when I’m simply not feeling it, a short exercise (ten to fifteen minutes) is perfect to get everything flowing again, especially after sitting for a long time. Whether it’s a short walk, some strength exercises or cardio by dancing around my desk…moving around leaves me feeling re-energised and also quite pleased with myself.

4. Hot shower a.k.a. treating the body

This is particularly great on days when I’m feeling really uncomfortable in my skin. I recalibrate my senses by taking a bit more time than usual for a hot shower with a nicely scented shower gel (I love a good shower foam). Applying my favourite body lotion afterwards is the icing on the cake.

5. Diary

Whenever I am feeling disconnected or overwhelmed, I write in my diary. It prevents the resurfacing of old coping mechanisms and if it can’t prevent that, it calms my nerves in the moment. It’s easy to do during the day and helps with processing feelings and creating order in a chaotic mind.

My list of self-care habits changes according to my needs and is ever evolving. What works for you? How do you incorporate self-care in your daily life?

Illustration by Shanta Jethoe