The last twelve months, we have all been under more stress and working hard. Today, the 1st of May is International Workers’ Day – and we’re here to celebrate it by sharing our favourite self-care rituals.

We’re huge fans of simple rituals because it makes them more sustainable. A good practice to relax doesn’t require a lot of effort or preparation. In this way, the best relaxation rituals are there to nurture your soul every day.

7 is a lucky number, so here are seven self-care rituals that you can practice every day.

Morning stretch

Have you ever had the feeling when you wake up that you are stiff and you don’t feel like you have had a restful sleep? A good morning stretch is always a great way to start your day. If you feel that committing to a daily yoga practice might be a little bit too much – start with stretching your legs, arms, neck, and back. It not only helps with blood circulation and lifting your mood but it can also help with backache.

A glass of water with lemon

A glass of warm water with lemon is refreshing and good for your digestive system. The list of benefits goes on… some of the advantages also include improving skin quality. We can sometimes think our bodies are hungry but we are actually thirsty, try a glass and see how this makes you feel.

Practice breathing

Thankfully, breathing is run by instinct! Not many of us practice conscious breathing but the majority of us underestimate the benefits of it. Controlled breathing can help us relax, reduce stress levels, increase our energy, improve mood and the quality of sleep. For more information regarding useful breathing techniques read the article here.

A healing bath

Some say it’s one of the most healing self-care rituals, as a hot bath not only heals your body from sore muscles or tense shoulders but also heals your soul. Combine with relaxing music and candlelight and submerge yourself.

Writing a journal

As we’ve mentioned in our previous blog regarding mindful habits, writing a journal not only allows you to express your deepest feelings and emotions but it’s a great way to practice gratitude. It can help to remind us what we are grateful for. It’s a great way to look back a month or a year and see how far you have progressed.

Exercise

Now that we are coming into Spring and the weather is warmer we now have the choice of outside or inside. Whether you choose an exercise that enables you to have time to yourself outside by walking, running or cycling. Or you prefer to exercise with another person/persons why not try tennis, golf or volleyball to name but a few. The list is endless, so why not take the time to try something new every few weeks and find out what you enjoy best.

Spend time with animals

Whether you have a dog you can go on long walks with a cat to cuddle up or something smaller, animals help to calm us. They are loving and loyal and are always happy to see us – what could be better.