It’s time for some self-care

Step 2

Let’s think about where you spend most of the day. What can you change to make your surroundings more pleasant? Think about simple things. For example, get yourself some fresh flowers; don’t underestimate the simple joy and power of bringing color and life into your space.

Post a photo of the changes in your space in the comments!

Step 4

Do you wish you could stay in bed just a little longer? Let’s do it either today or tomorrow! For example, have a coffee, tea, or breakfast in bed or lie down and forget about everything—a few minutes just to yourself. This is your moment, your time, and everything else can wait.

Step 6

Here’s a 10-minute exercise you can do right now or at night before bed.

1. Sit comfortably, feet on the floor. Put your hands on your knees, close your eyes, and feel the calm taking over.
2. Mind, body, and soul. What are you thinking about right now? Are your thoughts positive or negative? How do you feel? Happy or not really? What do you feel? Does anything hurt? Is anything bothering you?
3. Focus on your breathing. Listen to yourself inhaling and exhaling. You can place your hands on your stomach and feel it rise and fall with each breath. Tell yourself: “I am OK, no matter what. I am OK fine.” Continue breathing deeply and monitor your breathing for a while.
4. Return to your starting point. How are you feeling now? Listen to the sounds in the room.
5. Observation: Did this exercise help you? Open your eyes when you’re ready.

Mothers! How are you feeling?

THANK YOU for joining our self-care challenge and taking these simple steps.

Know well that no one is quite like you, even if you don’t feel that way right now.

Step 9

t’s digital detox day! This evening, forget that you have a phone, TV, or computer.

Instead, do something you’ll really enjoy. Remember, you have a special page in your notebook.

Step 11

Today, write five things you love about yourself on a fresh page in your notebook. It is time to be proud of your achievements, peculiarities, abilities, and qualities. Don’t you have five reasons to be proud? Think harder! We all know well that there isn’t anyone quite like you. You can do it!

Step 13

Slow and steady movements, like yoga and walking, and deep breathing, increase blood flow and help our muscles. Remember, we want healthy bodies and healthy minds—it’s a two-for-one deal!

Do some relaxing yoga or take a walk today to calm your mind and body. There’s a great link to a guided relaxing yoga session in the comments.

Step 15

When was the last time you watched a great movie you enjoyed from start to finish? Well, today is the day.

Watch your favorite movie again or play a movie you’ve wanted to see for a long time but haven't had the time. Comment with a list of your favorite flicks!

Step 16

Do you know how useful just twenty minutes of physical activity a day is for your metabolism and how much energy it will give you?

Well, let's try.

Maybe 20 jump rope or 20 squats with feet shoulder width apart?

In the comments you will find one or two links that we have specially selected for you.

And if you have your favorite version of physical activity, write it in the comments.

Step 18

Today is a day of colors.

Let's draw what our hearts desire today. It's OK if you don't know how to draw well; the important thing is to enjoy the process!

You can also get yourself a coloring book and some colored pencils and spend time coloring a picture or two that you like. It may help calm your nerves.

Would you like to show us what you drew or painted? Post a photo in the comments.

Step 20

Arrange your wardrobe or any of the shelves or drawers at your home. Maybe there is a drawer you wanted to tidy up for a long time but never got to. Get rid of at least one unnecessary thing while arranging.

Remember, we can feel better when things around us are in order.

Here's a reminder that you have boundaries and that you don't have to apologize:

• having emotions and expressing them;

• refusing or saying "no";

• taking the time you need;

• not looking or feeling great today

Step 23

Talk to someone close to you, someone with whom you've wanted to talk for a while but never got around to it. If it is impossible to speak in person, you can call, send a message, or write a letter.

Talking with close and trusted people can really help 😊

Step 25

Thoughts that you should never focus on:

• All people should love and accept me;

• I have to have control over everything;

• I have to do everything perfectly; shortcomings are unacceptable;

• I will mess things up;

• I shouldn't express my emotions; there is no benefit in doing so;

Instead, accept yourself as you are. Many things are beyond your control; controlling and changing everything is impossible. Focus on what you can change.

Step 27

Being able to notice and appreciate what we have helps us feel content and gives us hope in difficult times.

Think of five things for which you are thankful. If you'd like, you can share them in the comments: the sun, your parents, delicious food, beautiful nature, friends, a cup of delicious coffee or tea, work.

Step 28

When was the last time you gave yourself a gift? Well, today's the day!

Get yourself a gift, even a small one, to celebrate your achievements. It can be a reusable water bottle, a book, a scarf, some jewelry, a dress, your favorite dish, a cocktail, or just a much-needed 15 minutes of rest.

You deserve it! Reward yourself!

Step 30

If you do anything for 40 days and enjoy the results, it becomes a habit.

We're thrilled if we inspired you with our self-care challenge! Try making one of these steps a habit in your life.