The best way to show self-care is to take care of your body and mind. When you put yourself and your needs first, you remind yourself that you are worthy of love and attention. It takes a lot of courage to prioritize your needs, but it’s so important to your overall well-being.
Although relaxing is important, I’ve ultimately learned that self-care involves so much more than just bubble baths and nap time although they are a high importance of self-care. Self-care overall is about taking control of your life and refusing to let toxic people or things take priority over yourself.
I hope that you’ll take a moment to look at yourself in the mirror and remind yourself that you’re worthy of self-care. When you put your wants and needs first, you’ll feel so much happier and healthier in the long run.
Whether you’re a lover of baths or naps, self-care is absolutely essential to all of our lifestyles. And we’re true believers that the ways we show love to our mind, body and soul!
Make breakfast in bed just because! With staycations. you’ll skip the price tag, the planning and the “I need a vacation to relax from my vacation”! A staycation you can find many new hobbies and self relief.
The best part of a solo staycation: you’re on your own schedule! That means you can do as little (or as much) as you want.
Yes, baths are a classic self-care choice… but it’s for good reason. Baths reduce inflammation, they kill bacteria, and they just feel really lovely! Create your own bubbly heaven spa with our wellness collection products! From facial steams, bath soaks, face masks or body oil (We love putting a few drops into our bath for some soil moisture… and let the relaxation begin.
Don’t have a bath? Step up your shower situation instead with our best selling body and face scrub exfoliators, and hair masks & oil treatments. We love the Citrus + lavender body polish exfoliator combined with our ylang ylang + Lavender Body Wash. Light your favorite scented candle for that relaxation. Check out our collection of Organic Soy based candles. Don’t forget to put on a relaxing chill playlist!
What’s a self-care list without chocolate? There are lots of yummy sugar free chocolates out there, but Lily's chocolate, they have a special place in our hearts. It’s not only absolutely delicious, but it’s also completely sugar free and free of palm oil! YES! Sugar FREE! You wouldn’t even notice ;)
But if chocolate isn’t your thing or you’re more of a salty tooth, grab some crackers and cheese instead. We all need to treat ourselves every once in a while without an ounce of guilt!
Do you ever feel like you have so much in your mind and no place to put it?! That’s what journals are for!
One of our favorite journal prompts is: write down the things that are bringing you down and then write a gratitude list. It’s a simple yet effective way to let go of the bad and make space for the good.
And you won’t be the only one that benefits! Research shows that when we’re embrace gratitude in our lives, we’re more connected to ourselves and the planet, which ultimately makes us more mindful of our actions.
It’s no secret we’d all benefit from more meditation in our lives. Meditation reduces anxiety, improves sleep quality, and enhances empathy. And studies show that when people are more empathetic, they become more concerned about the environment.
So pause a little more (even though it’s hard!), you’ll benefit and so will Mother Earth.
Find a planet-friendly activity that gets you excited! Whether you’re curious to start composting or want to unleash your inner green thumb all it takes is a little time and inspiration to feel super connected to the planet.
If you’re craving a long chat with mom (or whoever is your long phone call buddy), give your body some love at the same time with a walk! You’ll catch up, move your body, and get all the endorphins.
Go the extra eco-friendly mile and pick up some litter while you’re at it (Make sure you're wearing the correct protective equipment (Gloves). Just remember to be careful while you’re walking and talking, and be aware of your surroundings! Had to say it.
Give yourself love by preparing a yummy healthy nutiours meal full of good-for-you ingredients. Make it colorful!
SO IMPORTANT! Seriously, getting some extra zzzz’s is one of the best ways you can show yourself love. And when you turn off your lights and hit the hay, guess what Good sleep can maximize problem-solving skills and enhance memory. Poor sleep has been shown to impair brain function.
One thing you can do day after day is some self care around your sleep. Sleep is arguably the most important of the three pillars of a healthy life. It impacts on psychological health, metabolism, cardiovascular health and the immune system. Let your mind unwind and relax.
Although relaxing is important, I’ve ultimately learned that self-care involves so much more than just bubble baths and nap time although they are a high importance of self-care. Self-care overall is about taking control of your life and refusing to let toxic people or things take priority over yourself.
I hope that you’ll take a moment to look at yourself in the mirror and remind yourself that you’re worthy of self-care. When you put your wants and needs first, you’ll feel so much happier and healthier in the long run.
Whether you’re a lover of baths or naps, self-care is absolutely essential to all of our lifestyles. And we’re true believers that the ways we show love to our mind, body and soul!
What are your most goto self care routines? Let us know! Tag us in your self care posts at #MillieMayfieldmoments.
Shop our Self Care wellness products and get relaxing!
Love Jodileigh (Founder)
Hey babes,
Millie Mayfield brand influencer takeover here!!
Welcome Annaliese from @Lovelylifebylaylay.
When was the last time you put yourself before anything else on your to- do list?
With trying to balance chores, errands, meetings, work and just daily life, it just seems selfish and impossible. Personally, I feel guilty at times putting myself first when there are other responsibilities in my life that seem more important. It’s always what we put on the back burner or save for a rainy day. Bad habits are formed from this and we almost convince ourselves that it’s acceptable.
This is exactly the problem! We have it so backwards, instead of putting ourselves first we put ourselves second. YOU should always make time for yourself (mind, body, soul). Think of your body as your car getting you from point A to point B. By taking the time to care for yourself, you are going to be able to be more successful in getting to your point A to point B. Even though it seems almost impossible at times, there is always a way.
I love the expression “You must put your health and happiness first before you can be of help to anyone else”. It really puts things into perspective. If you don’t take care of YOU (mentally & physically), how do you expect to give it your all when it comes to other people in your life and other responsibilities like our careers, education and personal relationships.
Why start now? Anxiety has been something that I have struggled with for years. For a while, I had no idea just how serious it was and how it was negatively impacting my life. Sharing my feelings and seeking the right kind of help in my situation was the second battle. The summer leading into my freshman year of college, I spent a lot of time getting the help I needed and really focusing on ways to curb those feelings. How, you might ask? By making time and putting myself first. This was one of the biggest insecurities at the time, since nobody really understood what I was feeling or what I was going through. When you spend time with yourself, you begin to see your true identity much more clearly. I was able to tune out the old and let in the new healthy habits. I spent time focusing on what made me happiest and what made me feel whole. This process did take some time. It was not immediate by any means but like anything in life, it took time, practice and consistency. I do still have my moments of weakness, but I can honestly say that I have a better grasp on how to nourish my mind, body and soul.
The reason for sharing this is just to remind anyone who is struggling that you are not alone! Trust me, feeling alone with your emotions is just pure torture. Even those who practice self-care struggle. Sometimes what we are doing is just not enough (unfortunately). Life will always get in the way, that deadline for an upcoming project might need to trump what is on your personal to-do list. Luckily, there is always a way make time for yourself while still being productive in your everyday life.
As I mentioned before, LIFE will always be getting in the way and that will never change. What can change however, is how you handle life’s challenges when they are thrown your way. Who’s ready to start now? Whether it’s everyday, every week or when you feel you need it most, being able to make time for yourself will positively change your life. More importantly it will improve your overall well-being.
If you are still reading this, that means you are ready! I am happy to have you here.
To start, it’s important that you think about what it is exactly that YOU need at the moment. What are you focusing on? Is it your Mind? Body? Soul? Maybe its a combination of all three and that is completely normal. There are so many ways you can practice self-care.
Let’s get you loving yourself!
10 minute Morning ritual. You’re probably thinking “why”. How do you wake up in the morning? I am sure it involves a loud alarm or some kind of abrupt sound followed by you jumping out of bed. Sleep is the most important part of daily function. That is why waking up with “purpose” can make that sleep even more beneficial for your day ahead. Try setting your alarm 10 mins earlier everyday to practice this. I like to wake up and spend the first 5 mins stretching focusing on my upper body and then lower body. The next 10 mins I try to focus on my breathing and getting in the right headspace for the day. Being present with yourself first thing in the morning, will only help with handling stress and challenges throughout the day. You can even do this at night before you go to bed to help put you in a deeper sleep.
Create a playlist on your phone. I have a few of these on my Spotify account for my different moods. Listening to music is really therapeutic for me and it puts me into a better mood instantly. It’s a great distraction especially after to much daily human/social stimulation.
Putting your phone on Do Not Disturb. Sometimes we feel almost obligated to text someone back or answer a call after a busy or stressful day. The truth is, it’s alright to put yourself first when you just want some space.
De-Cluttering a room. From the kitchen to the bedroom all the way to your bathroom clutter piles up quickly and can drive you crazy! Focusing on one room at a time to really de-clutter and organize can really put your mind at ease. A clean space for me is the best feeling ever! I feel like I accomplished so much even if it’s just a little organization.
Make a list and write it all out. When there is a lot going on or a lot on my mind, I like to write it all out. Makes it easier for me to form a list from most important to least important when I see it all out on paper.
Visiting your “place”. We all have that one “place” that makes us feel safe. Whether it’s your backyard, your bedroom, the beach or maybe even home. When you feel safe, you are able to think more clearly and really focus on what it is on your mind. For me, it’s anywhere near a body of water. I find the sound of running water so soothing.
Explore the outdoors. Get yourself outside and make it a point to focus on the natural beauty around you.
Get yourself some fresh flowers or a scented candle. It’s been proven the smelling fresh flowers (especially roses) boosts your overall mood! Having your favorite scented candle to burn can also offer that same kind of reaction.
Look through old pictures or keepsakes. Remind yourself just how amazing you are!
Pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine. Cheers!
Write that letter to yourself that is long overdue. Get it all out! When you are done, mail it to yourself or hide it. When you are feeling down, take it out and read it.
Watch a movie alone. Sounds boring but it’s very relaxing!
Practice square breathing. You want to draw a picture in your head of a square while doing this (hence the name). Each time you take a breath it’s one line. You do this 4x (breath in for 4 exhale for 4).
Go take a walk/run. Blow off some steam and clear your head.
Dance to some music. Like nobody is watching!
Invent you own coffee/tea creation. Have fun experimenting with flavor and technique and enjoy the beauty of being creative with your drink.
Treat yourself to a self or salon mani/pedi. Boost your confidence. I suggest getting yourself your own mani kit so that everything is ready and in reach. Amazon has a great selection!
Buy a new lipstick or gloss. Add a pop of color to your life with a new color or shade. My current favorites are by Navy beauty & also Milk
At home spa day. Bring out the face masks, hair treatments and bath bombs!
Snuggle up with a blanket. This is perfect if you live alone or just looking to feel safe and secure. I personally love the Barefoot Dreams blankets. There are also a few great weighted blankets that I suggest.
LAUGH. Whatever it is, find it and make it happen :)
Daily quote calendar. Small little reminders that everything will be alright.
Treat yourself to something BIG. Whether it’s every week or every month, reward yourself with something to give yourself something to look forward to.
Read a new book or listen to a new podcast. This can help open your mind to new adventures and possibilities.
Get active. Everyone is different so I will leave it up to you here. Try out a yoga class or fitness camp. There are so many great online programs that you can do right from the comfort of your home.
Call/reach out to a close friend or family member. Connecting and checking up on others will help make you feel better but will mean the world to someone else. I love calling my grandparents and just sharing with them how my life is going. It means the world to them and it makes me smile hearing from them.
Journal. Get those thoughts and feeling out and on paper. Getting yourself a journal that you love can really help inspire you to write. I love journaling. I have a lot of creative moments in mine. I also struggled with a learning disability all my life (still now). Journaling allows me to be whoever I want with ZERO judgement.
Allow yourself to cry. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger! Let it out. This is something that I still struggle with but I do know that it’s what makes me feel good when times get rough.
Spend time with someone who makes you happy. Grab a coffee with your best friend or even your significant other. I love taking car rides with my boyfriend to places that we spend a lot of time at together.
Create a folder with inspirational quotes/saying. This is my favorite thing to do! I have been doing this for years. When I find myself struggling I look back.
Play with animals. Pet therapy is so beneficial, especially when you are feeling worried or anxious. I like to lay on the floor with my dog and just talk to her! Sounds silly but they will never share your gossip (hehe).
Disconnect from reality. Give yourself some space from your “norm”. That means getting out of the house, taking time off or just going on a mini vacay. It will restart your wellbeing.
Watch the sunrise and the sunset. Soak in this worlds true beauty!
Lay under and count stars. Make a wish!
Pray. Whatever your religion is, make time to feed your soul.
Random act of kindness. Make someone else’s day and walk away proud that you made a difference. I try to make an effort everyday to do at least 1 act. It makes me feel good but it’s just the right thing to do and being a nice person costs $0.
Visit a local garden/park. Stop and smell the roses!
Plan that trip of a lifetime. Maybe it won’t happen right away, but have a plan in place and something to look forward to!
Listen to the ocean. Smell the salt in the air, close your eyes and be at peace.
KEEP DREAMING! What is life without dreams? A life without dreams is no life at all. Never give up, never stop sparkling.
Stay healthy & be well.
xo Annaliese
Lavender oil is an essential oil derived from the lavender plant. It can be taken orally, applied to the skin, and breathed in through aromatherapy.
You can use calming lavender oil for skin to help reduce redness, blotchy patches, and acne scarring. Lavender-oil's anti-inflammatory properties make it great for soothing and healing skin that's irritated or reddened from the sun, insect bites, or bacteria. Here are 10 reasons why Lavender should be a weekly use.
Up to 75% of women will experience premenstrual tension (PMT) during their child bearing years. Some of the symptoms include bloating, pain, irritability, moodiness, anxiety and low mood. Using lavender essential oil through aromatherapy has been shown to alleviate the symptoms associated with PMT. All you need to do is add lavender oil to your diffuser and just 10 mins of inhalation can provide significantly reduced low mood and confusion, lasting up to 35 minutes post inhalation.
Lavender oil is probably best known for its calming or sleep inducing effects. Research has now shown that lavender essential oil can significantly improve sleep quality. By adding a few drops of lavender oil to your pillow every evening before bed you can drift off to dreamland and get a good night’s rest.
In addition to improving sleep quality, lavender can also help reduce anxiety levels. Inhalation of lavender essential oil daily for 15 days has been shown to reduce levels of anxiety. One study showed the use of lavender oil fragrance at a dental reception effectively reduced patients’ state of anxiety. Pop some oils in your bag and take a sniff when feeling anxious or overwhelmed throughout the day and remember to take them to your next visit to the dentist.
Whilst lavender certainly has many benefits in maintaining healthy skin, it also can promote new hair growth. If you want luscious long locks give lavender a try as there are some studies suggesting its use as a hair growth promoting agent. When combined with other essential oils including thyme, rosemary and cedarwood it has been shown to significantly improve hair loss in alopecia areata (spot baldness) when massaged into the scalp daily. Drop a few drops off Lavender essential oil to our Hair Repair Oil and use this as a weekly hot oil hair treatment.
Lavender oil has some wonderful properties that help with wound healing. When applied to a minor wound, it can help promote healing by helping the minor wound to contract and speed up the process of tissue repair. You can try our Calendula + Lavender Repair Salve Moisturizer. An array of nourishing butters, nutrient rich candellia, healing beeswax, and truly infused calendula oil to repair& replenish traumatized skin. This ultra-intensive blend of healing essential oils improves the skin's health and appearance.
Lavender essential oil acts as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic making it an effective pain reliever in mild to moderate pain. It has many applications including assisting with osteoarthritis pain, neck and back pain, period pain (dysmenorrhoea) and cramping. A popular use of lavender oil is in aromatherapy massage, and bath soaks which has been found to be more effective in relieving pain in knee osteoarthritis in comparison to massage without lavender oil. Next time you are feeling for some aromatherapy relaxation drop a few Lavender oil drops into your bath with our Coconut + Hibiscus bath soak.
* Exotic blend of detoxifying & muscle soothing minerals, moisturizing coconut, and a nourishing botanical infusion paired with a harmonizing blend of citrus and sandalwood oils.
Whilst headaches are an unpleasant health ailment, migraines can be debilitating. Due to its analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety actions, lavender may be beneficial in reducing the pain and tension of a headache or migraine. Relief can be found through inhalation of the essential oil or through rubbing the oil on pressure points including the temples and the nape of the neck. Combine lavender with peppermint oil when applying topically for an added cooling effect. Never apply an essential oil directly to your skin, always have it in a base oil or cream. SHOP our candle collection for the home or office to help sooth your mind.
Lavender oil is one of those few natural ingredients you can look up to for getting rid of acne troubles. The oil has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can fight the bacteria that cause acne and inflammation. Simply dab some lavender oil on your acne blemishes using a cotton swab, and see the desired results.
Eczema can be a very embarrassing skin condition, but only if one doesn’t have lavender oil handy. This is because the oil has the ability to relieve itching and reduce the symptoms of eczema. It also decongests the irritated areas on the skin by adding moisture, thereby accelerating the healing process. It is recommended that lavender be diluted in a carrier oil before using for this purpose. Millie Mayfield boutique has a variety of ORGANIC & ALL NATURAL skincare products that focus on healing and befitting healthy happy skin. CLICK TO SHOP SKINCARE
One well known lavender oil benefit is its antimicrobial action. For centuries, it has been used topically to help combat bacterial and fungal infections, with a multitude of studies supporting this benefit. The antimicrobial activity of lavender is further enhanced when it is combined with other essential oils including clove, tea tree and cinnamon oil for topical use.
Due to its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties and its ability to assist with skin healing, lavender makes a great remedy to ease sunburn. Add a few drops to aloe vera gel or mix up a spray with both lavender and peppermint essential oils to help take the sting out of that burn OR try our Calendula + Lavender Repair Salve Moisturizer. An array of nourishing butters, nutrient rich candellia, healing beeswax, and truly infused calendula oil to repair& replenish traumatized skin. This ultra-intensive blend of healing essential oils improves the skin's health and appearance.
SHOP ORGANIC + ALL NATURAL WELLNESS
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