People think that because I am a private trainer and a teacher that I must workout all day, ha!, that’s so cute. The fact is, I don’t. I actually workout less than most of my clients do. Since my life is about helping others take good care of themselves there are times I am too tired by the end of the day to do the same for me. Because this imbalance can happen it is very important to me to stay healthy.
Here is my Top Ten List of Self-Care:
1. Drink Water. I am lucky enough to be in a very healthy environment all day long as I take care of my clients in their homes or at my LA studio. I keep water with my all day; by my bed, in the bathroom, in my car, if I go to a movie, everywhere. I feel better when I’m drinking water. I only use reusable glass bottles though; this is a must. No Plastic! ☺
2. Eat Colors. I love food and I am constantly trying new produce, recipes, and experimenting with healthy treats; this is a wonderful part of my day. I enjoy making it fun by choosing a variety of foods that provide an array of colors. This way I know I am getting lots of vitamins and minerals. When I shop I choose by color as well as taste; the richer in color the better.
3. Eat Fat. I make sure to get enough fat in my diet. This is so important for all of us. If we don’t eat enough fat our body stores fat and our metabolism slows down. My favorite go to choices are coconut butter; in, and on, everything, a wedge of aged cheddar, ghee butter (yum!), nuts and seeds, avocadoes and olives. This is all good for you; no guilt allowed. ☺
4. Take Naps. This one is my favorite. I try to take a few naps a week or whenever my body or mind feels sluggish and worn down. They are usually 20-30 minutes mid-day. This is my reset button and I always feel balanced and rejuvenated.
5. Salt Baths: By simply putting coarse sea salt in a bath and sitting for at least 15 minutes I feel grounded again and restored back to my authentic self. This is a chance for me to settle and let go.
6. Dry Brushing. I love this. I use a dry body brush that you can get at any health food store and even some drug stores. It is invigorating as well as cleansing. This is a wonderful way to increase your circulation, get rid of dead skin, assist the lymphatic system to release toxins, aids in reducing cellulite and feels good!
7. Skin Treats. I treat my skin with great respect. I use a face sponge when cleansing my face so I gently exfoliate; I only use organic products for everything from my skin, to what I eat, to what I clean with. I nourish my skin with rosehip oil; face too and I use Young Living essential oils for practically everything. (More on this in a future article, stay tuned.)
8. Diffuse. Diffuse. Diffuse. I always have essential oils in a diffuser; both at home and at work; it makes me happy. My favorites are citrus, peppermint, and Frankincense.
9. Crystal Therapy. I keep crystals around me at all times. I feel they help me stay grounded and protected. I usually use clear quartz, rose quartz, tourmaline, tiger’s eye and pyrite, as I find they are the most useful for me to clear energy and find my way back to me. I keep them in my purse, my car, I have some by my bed, at work, on my altar where I meditate, everywhere!
10. Tea Ceremony. I saved the best for last. If I want a treat I make a cup of tea first. By making it a ceremony I am slowing down enough to actually enjoy my experience. Waiting for the water to boil brings a sense of calm. I choose not to multi task during this time. I am present and grounded in what I am doing. I always choose a very dark 70-80% organic chocolate or a homemade treat I created. When my tea is ready I sit and take a small bite, then I sip my tea, then I breathe. I just started doing this and it has made such a difference in my life. I allow it to be an experience instead of something I mindlessly do while doing other things; it tastes better this way too.

Many people say they don’t have the time to take good care of themselves but honestly this doesn’t take more time out of your life. What takes a little effort is putting you first on your priority list. This is more about setting an intention to be present with things that are nurturing to you throughout your day.
You may already be doing some, or most, of these things but aren’t present with the experience. Slow down and be mindful of your activities in your day and see how they shift towards indulgence rather than just another task on your to-do list.
I invite you to step into your life more fully by not only working out but by working in. Work your way into yourself by nourishing and nurturing your body in a loving and caring way. Find things that make you happy and see how you can incorporate them into your daily life.
Come up with your own Top Ten List and create rituals that honor and respect your body. Get creative and try new things. Share some of your choices below. I would love to hear what you do to take care of you.
Best of luck! I’m off to make some tea and have my daily treat.
Namaste