The Little Blog of Self-Care

Want to make some changes to your current self-care routine? Continue reading! We all know to drink more water, get more sleep, exercise, wear sunblock, and eat your fruits and veggies, but that kind of gets of boring, right? Here are a few ideas for trying a new self-care routine just in time for the new year.

Herbal remedies
Herbal remedies have been around since the dawn of time and, in recent years, are becoming very popular. Peppermint, ginger, turmeric, and basil are well-touted herbs as they are found in many common everyday items such as beverages, beauty products, and even cleaning products. There are many online resources to provide you with information but be sure to use a reputable source. Check out one of these books to find out more information about the benefits of herbs:

Adaptogens: Herbs for Longevity and Everyday Wellness


Culpeper's Complete Herbal: Over 400 Herbs and Their Uses








Meditation
The benefits of meditation are well known but who really has time to sit still, with your busy mind, for a few minutes? Don’t despair, it is possible! Meditation has been practiced for many, many years and will continue to thrive. Like many, I struggle to find the time and stillness for meditation, but there are many great apps and YouTube videos to help your mind focus.

A personal favorite is the app Calm which provides both guided meditation as well as bedtime stories.

If apps are not your thing, I also recommend the book A Course in Meditation: A 21-Day Workout for Your Consciousness by Osho. As the title suggests, the book provides readers with 21 days of inspiration and guidance to get into the habit of meditating.
A Course in Meditation: a 21-Day Workout for your Consciousness


Awakening Love: Teachings and Practices to Cultivate a Limitless Heart


Another great meditation option is listening to a meditation book on CD. Pema Chödrön’s Awakening Love: Teachings and Practices to Cultivate a Limitless Heart provides listeners with tools and techniques to help ease a busy mind.



Essential oils
Essential oils seem to be everywhere - you can find them in hand soaps, lotions, candles, and foods. It is now even easier to use essential oils due to the popularity of aromatherapy machines as well as natural incense. While some scents can be a bit too strong for the sensitive, there is a scent out there for everyone. There are many local shops in the area where you can stop in to sample different scents.

Everyday Essential Oils: 300 Brilliant Reasons to Use Essential Oils Everyday








Acupressure and Reflexology
If you are interested in acupuncture but the thought of needles terrifies you, acupressure and reflexology might be great options.  Acupressure and reflexology are other self-care techniques with ties to centuries past.

Trigger Points: Use the Power of Touch to Live Life Pain-Free


The Reflexology Atlas








Stop by any of the Mercer County Library System branches or search our catalog to find more self-care books. Also, be sure to check out all of the branch program listings as we offer many free self-care programs.

- Michelle Rodriguez, Robbinsville Branch

Comments

  1. Nice post! I have tried one of those meditation apps, the very one you mention, in all likelihood, and found it useful. But as soon as they try to rope you into paying for it, I tap out. Too many free alternatives at the library to waste money that way. Look forward to your next post!

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