Welcome to Fresh Feeling Friday, a cherished ritual that has transformed my life in more ways than I could have imagined. In our fast-paced, hectic world that often feels like an overwhelming whirlwind of responsibilities, commitments, and chaos, taking time for self-care has become not just beneficial, but essential. It’s the oxygen mask principle—taking care of yourself first enables you to be there for others effectively.
Today, I’m excited to share with you Fresh Feeling Friday, how it’s changed my physical, mental, and emotional well-being, as a guide to help you embark on crafting your very own weekly self-care routine, even amidst the hustle and bustle of work, and to offer you tips for having a balanced lifestyle that includes personal self-care.
The Birth of Fresh Feeling Friday
Fresh Feeling Friday wasn’t always a part of my life. In fact, it emerged out of my commitment to my skin care routine AND sheer necessity. Like many, I live life at a relentless pace, constantly juggling work, family, and social obligations. This has left me feeling drained, stressed, and disconnected from myself. It was clear that something needed to change!
One evening, while talking to my daughter about our monthly ritual of manicures and pedicures, I realized that self-care wasn’t a luxury; it was a necessity for my well-being. And what better way to embrace it than by dedicating an entire day to it?
The Benefits of Self-Care
Before getting into the specifics of Fresh Feeling Friday, let’s take a moment to understand why self-care is so crucial. Self-care encompasses any activity or practice that nurtures your physical, mental, and emotional health. Its benefits are far-reaching:
- Improved Physical Health: Prioritizing self-care can lead to better physical health. Activities like exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep contribute to your overall well-being. Fresh Feeling Friday gives you the space to focus on these essential aspects of health.
- Enhanced Mental Well-being: Self-care helps in reducing stress, anxiety, and burnout. Engaging in relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or pursuing creative hobbies can significantly boost your mental health. Fresh Feeling Friday provides the ideal opportunity to reset your mind.
- Emotional Resilience: Taking time for self-care enables you to connect with your emotions, understand them better, and manage them effectively. It’s a chance to nourish your soul, express your feelings, and cultivate emotional resilience.
The Anatomy of Fresh Feeling Friday
Fresh Feeling Friday is a day dedicated entirely to self-care. It’s a sanctuary amidst the chaos of life, a moment to reconnect with yourself, and a commitment to your well-being.
Here’s how it typically unfolds:
Morning Delights
The day begins with a peaceful morning routine. I wake up a little earlier than usual, ready my bible, and allow myself the luxury of a healthy breakfast. It’s a time to reflect on scripture, savor my food, and set a positive vibe for the day ahead.
Nourishing the Body
Eating a balanced lunch meal gives our body the necessary tools for maintenance and efficiency. The act of eating mindfully is an exercise in self-respect. It acknowledges that the quality of fuel we choose can have effects on our physical vigor and mental clarity.
When we select foods that are rich in nutrients, we support our body’s various complex systems. A diet abundant in vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains provides steady energy levels, allowing us to perform at our peak throughout the day. Moreover, the process of mindfully choosing and consuming food helps us to become fully present, reduces stress, and enhances our enjoyment of the meal.
By engaging in a lunch routine that prioritizes nutrient-dense foods, we do more than just eat; we nourish our body and soul, promote heightened concentration, and encourage a positive mood.
Mindful Moments
The afternoon is dedicated to mindfulness practices. Daily I have made intentional, dedicated time at work — 10 minutes — for some quiet time listening to instrumental jazz. On Fridays I up that time to 15 minutes. These moments help me release any built-up tension. It’s a practice that has allowed me to stay calm and focused during the rest of the work day.
Creative Expression
Engaging in a creative activity in the late afternoon is a highlight of Fresh Feeling Friday. Whether it’s writing or coloring in a coloring book (yes, as an adult, I like to color in a coloring book), this time allows me to express myself freely and tap into my inner creativity.
Reflect and Reconnect
As the day winds down, I take time for self-reflection. I journal about my experiences, thoughts, and feelings throughout the day. This has been instrumental in gaining insights into my own well-being and personal growth.
Evening Bliss
Fresh Feeling Friday culminates in a relaxing evening. A warm bath or hot shower, a good book, or a cup of ice cold water are the perfect companions to wind down and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.
The Impact of Fresh Feeling Friday
The effects of Fresh Feeling Friday on my life have been remarkable. I’ve noticed positive changes in my physical, mental, and emotional well-being:
- Physical Health: I have more energy, sleep better, and have become more attuned to my body’s needs. Regular exercise and balanced nutrition have become a natural part of my routine.
- Mental Well-being: Stress and anxiety have taken a back seat, and I approach challenges with a calmer mindset. Mindfulness practices have given me greater clarity and emotional stability.
- Emotional Resilience: Fresh Feeling Friday has become a safe space to process my emotions. It has improved my self-awareness and allowed me to navigate life’s ups and downs with greater resilience.
Create Your Fresh Feeling Friday
Fresh Feeling Friday may look different for each person. It’s a customizable concept, allowing you to tailor it to your unique needs and preferences. Creating your Fresh Feeling Friday routine need not be elaborate; it’s about dedicating time to do what feels right for you. The key is to prioritize this time for yourself despite any guilt about taking a break from productivity. And over time, as you adapt this practice, you might find that what started as a solitary activity becomes an infectious part of your life!
In a world that doesn’t slow down for us, Fresh Feeling Friday is a gentle reminder that sometimes, we must pause, and tend to our own garden, in order to watch it bloom.
Here are some steps to help you create your own weekly self-care ritual:
- Set Your Intention: Determine what areas of your life need more attention. Is it physical health, mental clarity, or emotional balance? Your intention will guide your self-care activities.
- Plan Your Day: Allocate specific times for self-care activities throughout the day, no matter where you are at any particular moment. Make it a priority, just like any other appointment in your calendar.
- Mix and Match: Experiment with various self-care activities to discover what resonates with you. It could be reading, cooking, or simply taking a long bath.
- Consistency is Key: Commit to your self-care day consistently. Over time, it will become a cherished part of your routine.
- Reflect and Adjust: Regularly assess the impact of your self-care rituals on your well-being. Adjust your activities as needed to ensure they continue to benefit you.
Final Thoughts
Fresh Feeling Friday has taught me that self-care is not selfish; it’s self-preservation. It’s a gift we give ourselves to ensure we can show up as the best version of ourselves in all aspects of life. It’s a reminder that we deserve to be cared for, just as much as we care for others.
I encourage you to embark on your own journey of self-care, whether it’s on a Friday or any other day that suits you. Your well-being is worth the time and effort, and the benefits will ripple through every aspect of your life. So, here’s to Fresh Feeling Friday and the beautiful path to self-discovery and self-care it represents.
