Shea butter lotion—a hydrating, thick, all-natural cream full of vitamins, healthy fatty acids, and anti-inflammatories—feels luxurious on your skin. It’s also multipurpose; you can use it on your arms and legs, as well as your face, to soothe and moisturize dry skin and keep you feeling soft. Dab a little shea butter lotion into your hands and take a few moments to mindfully smooth it over your palms and each finger until your skin feels silky-smooth. It’s a simple way to include a little self-care in your daily routine: Happy skin, happy you!
When you look your best, you feel your best, so the saying goes. And it’s true! What you wear influences your mood: A sharp blazer can make you feel like a boss, while those thread-bare sweatpants from five years ago make you feel, well, not quite as ready to take on the day. Think about which outfits or specific articles of clothing in your closet make you feel happiest. There’s no wrong answer. Wearing your favorite pieces will give you an extra boost whenever you need it.
Your hair absolutely impacts your mood—and how you feel about yourself. When you’re feeling a little off, schedule a haircut (or even just a shampoo and trim) for a fresh look, as well as a fresh outlook on life. It will give you a dose of self-confidence and something to show off to friends and family members.
From chocolatey cupcakes to peanut butter cookies to blueberry muffins, there’s something special about making—and eating!—a delicious dessert or baked good. The act of baking also requires your full attention, making it easier to send any stressed feelings or negative thoughts packing. And that first bite? Yum. Go ahead and indulge.
Early bird gets the worm, and experts say morning people are also happier. For one thing, if you’re waking up early, you’re more likely to go to bed on time and get a good night’s sleep. For another, that early alarm clock can mean a little time for self-care before you have to head out the door. You can use your time to read or exercise, or just make your morning routine a bit less hectic.
Everybody has a junk drawer full of random stuff—hot sauce packets, coupons, rubber bands, pens. But when you actually need one of those items, it’s hard to find in all the clutter. Organizing this drawer—or any messy drawer in your home—is an easy way to clear your head and feel productive. Plus, it’s liberating to toss out what you don’t need!
Whenever confronted with a question or request, remember that you don’t have to respond with a yes or no right away. Instead, you can say, “I’ll think about it,” which buys you a little time to reflect and gather more information before making a decision. It also creates some space for you to honor whatever feelings may pop up, allowing you to follow up in a more authentic way. This easy practice in authenticity is a great way to cultivate more long-term happiness.
Stargazing is a fun, simple activity to do either alone or with a loved one. It’s also a great way to get a new perspective: The planets, constellations, and our massive galaxy are so much bigger than anything that might be weighing you down! Plus, seeing the beauty of the dark skies above sparks reflection, observation, and contemplation. You can think about your place in the universe—or look for the Big Dipper.