Self-care isn’t a luxury; it really is an act of self-love

The nights are drawing in, more evenings spent curled up at home, so now is the perfect time to slow down and give yourself the care and attention that you truly deserve.

One day, we take a look in the mirror and we know that we have forgotten ourselves after spending years taking care of everyone else; partners, children, work, cooking, cleaning, and being a taxi service too, and as usual, we have been at the bottom of our own list for what seems like forever – Sound familiar?

As midlife women, especially during menopause, we are navigating so many changes, physically, emotionally, and mentally. Our energy levels have slipped along with our confidence, and we can often feel disconnected from the woman we once were. It is so easy to think that slowing down or putting ourselves first is indulgent, but from first-hand experience, self-care isn’t selfish; it is an

essential.

As women, we have been taught to keep wearing the ‘busy’ badge, to keep on going no matter what. It doesn’t matter if we are tired or run down; we keep on going, and eventually we run on empty, and that shows as we slowly wake up to the fact that we matter.

Self-care isn’t about fancy spa days or bubble bath by candlelight, but they are lovely as ‘treats’, self-care is really about the simple day-to-day choices that nurture you, your body, your mind, and your skin, yes, your skin! It really is a loving act to yourself of saying ‘I matter too’.

When you care for yourself, you are not taking from others, but you are putting yourself in the best place to care for others. You will be able to make better choices, be more in control, and feel great. We all know that we can’t keep pouring from an empty cup.

Self-care is an investment, not a luxury. Think of self-care as the foundation of your wellbeing because that is exactly what it is. Your mood, your energy, your confidence, and your health all start from this action – taking care of you.

It is not about a ‘quick fix’ for one day, but about looking after you. It truly is an investment, and it will pay you back with resilience, balance, and feeling more peaceful in yourself. It is about looking after your body well, moving it in ways that feel good, about nourishing your skin, resting well, and waking up

with bounce and energy…. Self-care will help you to glow from the inside out.

Self-care isn’t just about feeling good or looking good, but it is about feeling alive again

Ways to begin….

If it's been a while since you focused on yourself, start small and make little changes that will add up over time

Learn to say No

This is a biggie as we often find it hard (I know that sometimes I still do,) but you know what, practice

makes perfect, as with all these ideas. Slowly add them into your day and notice the small wins.

Feed your skin

Caring for your skin isn’t vanity; it is self-respect. The more you love it, the better it will look. It is a daily ritual that makes you feel important, loved, touched, and nurtured.

Nourish your body

Choose foods that give you energy. This will take time to ‘tune’ into your body’s signals, but it's worth listening to your body knows what is right for it. Supplements that support your gut health and hormones make a huge difference during menopause, too (especially if trying to stay off HRT. That’s

me!)

Movement – your choice

Gym, swim, walk, dance, stretch, yoga – there is so much out there, but this truly isn’t about punishing your body; this is about doing what feels right for you. Choose one that makes you feel strong.

Rest

Yes! We are allowed to stop. We can slow down and put our feet up with that cuppa. Unwind and relax before getting into bed.

Friends and community

It is proven that these two things bring us joy, laughter, and longevity, so find it abundance. Make sure that you have the support that you need with others who lift you, inspire you, and encourage you.

You Deserve This

So remember, self-care is not an indulgence; it's purely showing you that you care about yourself. It is a loving and nurturing act showing that you are absolutely worthy of it.

So take the first step today – take a walk, have that smoothie, soak in the bath, put your feet up and watch that movie, that is well-earned rest. You deserve to feel well, to look radiant and alive… You need this because you are you.

Self-care is not a luxury. It is the most powerful investment you can make in yourself.

'And I said to my body softly I want to be your friend.  It took a long breath and replied, I've waited for this my whole life' 

Nayyriah Waheed