Self-Care Ideas for Your Lockdown: Tips n' Tricks

Looking after yourself during lockdown

After a long stretch of life at home, it is worth checking in with yourself. How are you doing compared with how you started? Are you happy with where things are? We have all fallen off track in one way or another, and that is completely okay. This post is full of self-care ideas and gentle inspiration for a quieter time at home. Whether it is switching off your phone, enjoying your skincare, or clearing out a box of things you no longer need, make a little time for yourself to release the old and welcome the new. Most importantly, enjoy the process.

Lockdown tips and tricks

1. Disconnect, to connect

It can be really hard to switch off your phone, but it might be one of the kindest things you can do for yourself. Do not underestimate how much constant news, social media and emails can weigh on you. Many of us have never been so wrapped up in our screens. Disconnect from the noise so you can reconnect with yourself. Try something new, read a book, go for a walk. Find your joy away from your devices, and you will thank yourself for it.

2. Meditate, unwind, exercise

Make time for yourself. After such a long stretch, a lot of tension can build up in the body, and you may notice more aches than usual. Meditating, unwinding and moving your body are gentle ways to ease that tension, get moving again and let go of stored-up pressure. And finally, breathe deeply. You owe it to yourself.

3. Journal

A lovely self-care idea is to take up daily, weekly or monthly journaling. Many people find that putting thoughts on paper helps them feel calmer and more reflective. Here are some prompts you can try at home:

• What made you feel good today?
• What have you learned over the past year?
• What do you want to bring more of into your life? What are your goals and aspirations?
• What limiting beliefs are getting in your way? Are you ready to let go of them?
• How can you show more compassion to yourself and others?

4. Get rid of the old

One of the best self-care ideas for time at home is the simple power of decluttering. Clearing out your space is a wonderful way to let go of the old and bring a fresh feeling to your home. Holding on to lots of unused things can quietly weigh on you. Does your home feel heavy? It might be time to pack up what you no longer need. Be honest with yourself: do you really need all of it? Challenge yourself to clear out old clothes, objects and furniture, and enjoy how much lighter your space feels afterwards.

5. Learn something new

With more time at home, you finally have a chance to do something you have always wanted to do. So what is it? Maybe it is a dream you have carried since you were a child. Get into your heart-space and listen to what you are drawn to. Whether it is gardening, drawing, music or starting a blog, now is a great moment to begin. Pick up a book to guide you, or sign up for an online class. Why not?

6. Enjoy your skincare

Take pleasure in the simple routine of skincare. A daily skincare practice can bring a little structure and a sense of self-love to your day. Each morning, take your favourite facial serum or oil and gently massage your face from the inner to the outer areas. It is a soothing, mindful moment that helps your skin look fresh and glowing.

Here is a simple DIY facial serum you can make at home:

Ingredients

• 15 ml evening primrose oil
• 15 ml jojoba oil
• 2 drops rosemary essential oil
• 2 drops bergamot essential oil
• 2 ml vitamin E

Combine in a dark glass dropper bottle, shake gently and patch test before use. Bergamot can increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, so use this serum in the evening.

7. Pamper yourself with a bath

A bath is a soothing, nourishing practice and one of our favourite ways to slow down at home. Let the warm water ease your body and help the tension drift away.

A few reasons to add baths to your self-care routine:

• they can ease everyday muscle tension and soreness
• they are a calming way to relax and unwind
• they can soften and soothe the skin
• they make a comforting end to a busy day

Add essential oils, carrier oils and soothing salts to your bath for an even more enjoyable soak, leaving you feeling fresh and rejuvenated. Here is a recipe for an invigorating bath soak with Epsom salt, rosemary and lemon essential oil, perfect for starting the day feeling refreshed.

Don't stop here. Get creative and enjoy the process

Keep challenging yourself to learn new things and find joy in life's simple pleasures. Head outside for a daily walk and some fresh air, or learn to cook something you have always wanted to try. There is nothing stopping you right now, so go for it. Freely and fiercely.

A note on safe use

Essential oils are concentrated, so always dilute them in a carrier oil before applying to the skin and patch test first. Some citrus oils, such as bergamot, can make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Keep oils out of reach of children and away from the eyes, and speak to a qualified practitioner if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a health condition.

FAQs

What are some easy self-care ideas to start with?

Begin small. Switching off your phone for an hour, going for a daily walk, journaling for five minutes or running a warm bath are all gentle, low-effort ways to look after yourself.

How do I start a journaling habit?

Keep it simple and use a prompt, such as "what made me feel good today?" Writing a few lines at the same time each day, in the morning or before bed, helps the habit stick.

Can I use the DIY facial serum every day?

Most people enjoy it as part of an evening routine, since bergamot can make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Patch test first and use it in the evening to be safe.

Which essential oils are nice for a relaxing bath?

Lavender, rosemary and citrus oils such as lemon are popular choices. Stir a few drops through Epsom salt or a carrier oil before adding to the water.

How can I make screen-free time easier?

Set a specific window, move your phone to another room and have something ready to do instead, such as a book, a walk or a craft. Removing the temptation makes it far easier to switch off.