It’s Friday…welcome back! When I first started my weekend reads roundups, it was truly a jumbled compilation of all the things I enjoyed reading about that week. And it still very much is. But recently I’ve been trying to have a general theme or tone for each of these pieces, and today I wanted to share some pieces on self-care tips that cover everything from mindfulness to confidence.
What is self-care to you? To me, it starts with being kind to yourself, something I have never been good at.
I am the master of the negative self-talk. “You’re not good enough.” “You’re not skinny or pretty enough.” “You can’t do that.” “No one is reading that.” Pretty bad, huh? But I know so many people who battle these thoughts about themselves every day. That’s why I wanted to share some self-care tips that I’d like to try or things I have and are working slowly, but surely.
P.S. Towards the end of this, there are some items that are not self-care related like a s’mores store opening…well actually for some of us, that is exactly the self-care we need!
Weekend Reads and Self-Care Tips| 5-24
I’ve been trying to practice more gratitude and kindness in my life, here’s 20 ideas for random acts of kindness. These are all SOOO easy too. I also do like to occasionally buy the person behind me in line’s coffee.
Love The Stripe’s “Thought’s on Confidence.” I struggle big time with confidence. In fact, I started this blog FIVE YEARS AGO! But like she notes about herself in this piece, I was never confident enough to share the blog with anyone, because I was too worried about what others would think.
Six Self-Help Books that work via Carly the Prepster. “You Are a Badass” is one that has a permanent place on my shelf.
Thinking of a career change? Here are factors real women considered before making the switch.
I have a love-hate relationship with running. I’ll get really into it and run a half-marathon, and then just be totally sick of it. I’ve been trying to run a lot more now that it’s nice out, and I’m really starting to find an inner peace with it. I put on a good podcast and just go for however long or far I’m feeling that day. This piece shares ideas on how running can help improve your mental health.
What I do love is yoga. A story of how doing yoga for 30 days changed a yoga skeptic’s thoughts on it. Yoga legitimately saved my life. I discovered the most amazing teacher and class when I lived in Boise and was struggling through one of the toughest stretches of my life that included an emotionally abusive boss. Up until that point, I thought yoga was super boring and no workout at all, but in reality, I just hadn’t found the right class, the right studio, the right teacher. If you’re curious about it, just keep trying to find what works for you. My yoga practice has been the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. In addition to teaching me to be more mindful, it’s also helped build my confidence.
Speaking of workouts, I love doing mini 30 day challenges. I’m going to try this ab challenge for the month of June.
Another goal for June, in an effort to be more transparent, is to post what I’m wearing every day in my Instagram stories, regardless of whether or not it’s just sweatpants and pajamas. Love this polka dot dress that I wore to Saturday brunch!
And the bag is brand new from 31 Bits.
Candles are one of my favorite self-care items. I even light one on my desk while I work from home…13 perfectly scented candles for spring. Also, for a more budget friendly option, try Trader Joe’s peony blossom or lemon cookie scented candles.
Making lemon ricotta pancakes would be a great way to reward yourself for battling through a tough week.
Portland s’mores fans! 1927 will now have a storefront. I love that they also offer gluten free grahams.
Kate Middleton wore a $129 dress, and you can too!
Make life a little easier with these 37 stylish ponytail ideas.
Need gift ideas for dad?
Weekend Sales
Abercrombie: Take 25% off your entire purchase.
American Eagle: Take 25% off your purchase when you buy a new arrival.
Aerie: 30% off all apparel, 30-50% off bras and bralettes.
Ann Taylor: 50/50 sale…50% off select full priced items and an extra 50% off sale with code FIFTY.
Anthropologie: Take an extra 25% off sale items.
J. Crew: 40% off 3+ styles, 30% off 2 styles, 25% off 1 with code NOTSOBASIC.
Madewell: Extra 20% off sale styles. with code ENJOY20.
Nordstrom: Half-yearly sale.
Old Navy: Take 20% off your order.
In case you missed it:
In the mood for a summer-y pink drink this weekend? Try this fruity, rosé ice cube cocktail recipe.
All of the palm print style for your vacation needs!