Self-Care for Lazy People
Plus, these practices don’t cost a thing (or next to nothing)
I’ve started off 2024 feeling lazy. In fact, I’ve been leaning into laziness. Or, you could say, leaning back.
My second half of 2023 was stressful due to life events, and it hasn’t left me in the mood for achieving. I don’t want to assault this tender new year with my high expectations and demands. I want to do the bare minimum.
Laziness is resistance.
But seriously, we all need to take care of ourselves for our health and sanity. Haven’t we learned that in the past four years? And are we fully recovered from them? (no.)
Self-care isn’t a luxury.
Yet there is an association of self-care with wellness which is associated with high cost and privilege (aka a $200 facial). Self-care can also feel like something you need to put on your to-do list that’s going to suck (aka a cleanse). Or it’s something you’re constantly being barked at on Instagram to do (aka heal your trauma response!) in a performatively soothing voice.
I’m giving you my easiest, no- or low-cost ways to maintain your mental and physical health in seasons of stress.
1. Airplane mode isn’t just for flights
I suspect if you’re reading this, you have a smartphone. Maybe you’re even reading this on your smartphone. Try switching it onto airplane mode for a few hours every day. Make yourself unavailable to others so you’re more available for yourself.
This is the number one thing I do when I’m feeling stressed. It helps me focus on what I need to do that day. I also find it a more effective boundary than turning my ringer off or using the “do not disturb” setting on my iPhone.
2. Epsom salt baths aren’t just for sore muscles
I take an Epsom salt bath a few times a week. I purchase a low-cost, Walgreens brand Epsom salt (they usually have a two-for-one deal). I dissolve two cups into my bath to add magnesium to my system. Magnesium helps regulate the nervous system and most adults aren’t getting enough, which leads to increases in depression and stress.
I’m not big on supplements, especially the cost of them, so this is how I dose myself with magnesium while also having a relaxing experience. I also take salt baths to cleanse myself of negative energy that’s not mine, if you’re into such things.
Bonus points: Turn off the overhead lights and light a candle.
3. Time in nature isn’t just for people who live in the woods
I live smack-dab in the middle of a city. I wish I lived in the woods. But as they say, Bloom where planted. So I’m planted in my bed with my laptop watching this free YouTube video of a meadow full of spring wildflowers.
Zone out on it for half an hour with headphones on and see how you feel afterward. Make sure your notifications are on silent.
For the less lazy, go to the park. That counts as nature as long as you leave your phone at home or locked in the trunk of your car (so no one steals it). Listen to the birds. Pet someone’s dog. Soak in the greenery. Studies show that time in nature, or listening to nature sounds, improves cognition and mood.
4. No one notices when you take time off social media
Sad but true. One of my absolute favorite follows on Instagram just announced that she’s returned from a nine-month break from Instagram. Say what?! I didn’t even notice she was gone until she came back.
We are that distracted, folks.
Take time off social media. You don’t need to announce it, just do it (in the past I’ve made a big show of it but now I just ghost because no one cares). I find these breaks so important for mental health. And when you return, the algorithm boosts your post. So make it a good one.
I hope these simple tips bring more ease into your life and your new year.
Hi, I’m Ana! To learn about how I can help you live a life of more ease and less burnout, head over to my website.
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