70 Ideas to Show Yourself Love this May & Everyday
Being a mommy is one of the greatest achievements of my life, and definitely my favorite thing! I have so many amazing memories with my babies. We have shared so much life together and I have grown up alongside them. I had my first beautiful daughter just days before my 21st birthday. I remember being terrified. I threw up probably every single day. I always felt tired, and I’m pretty sure I had a cold once a month. Still, I promised myself I had to do everything in my power not to screw up this perfect little person. I fell in love with her the moment they laid her on my chest. I had no idea what to expect, but nothing would have prepared me for the insane love and connection that would overwhelm me instantaneously. Kayla was overall a pretty easy baby: she slept. I could have slept too if I hadn’t been watching her every move, and checking her breathing about every 2 mins. As a result, I was a mess. In contrast, she was perfect, and somehow I felt life would be okay.
My second perfect little gift was my daughter, Bailey. My pregnancy with her made me superhuman; like, I literally think I channeled Martha Stewart. I was decorating everything and cooking big meals. I walked everyday and felt the best I’ve ever felt. Bailey’s amazing energy was already lighting up my world. I remember walking to my weekly check up at about 36 weeks, happy as a clam and energetic as a kangaroo, and the doctor looked me straight in the face to say, “you need to get to the hospital now, this baby is coming”. 😳 I was like, ”Come again??” She said, “Marcie, you are dilated to a 5 and you need to get to the hospital.” At this point in our lives, my husband and I lived in Vancouver, Canada. We had no immediate family near, and 2 younger kids. I called one of my girlfriends, and asked her to come pick up my kids. Thankfully she was available. A few hours later, in hospital, with maybe 15-20 mins of pushing, my sweet Bailey blasted into the world with so much curiosity and the biggest, most beautiful eyes. Again, I fell in love.
It was a different world when I had my girls. I lived in a different country. Cell phones weren’t quite everywhere like they are now. Things were a bit slower paced. I really think life was a bit easier. I often walked with the kids most places, as we lived in a city downtown. We had the museum, library, and community center play groups. We also went for picnics often. I tried to make mommy connections wherever I could. While it was very lonely at times being so far from family and trying to raise a family of my own, I made some of my favorite memories with the kids back then.
If I can give you any advice from what I’ve learned and am still learning it’s so important to be patient. Patient with yourself, patient with your partner, patient with your kids, patient with the other moms around you....just show some patience and kindness because we are all fighting battles and kindness is contagious.
Another piece of advice is to stay connected. Find your tribe! For me and my gypsy lifestyle, this is an ongoing adventure. Some are friends from my first tastes of independence as a very young adult. Some of them are the connections while my immediate family was forming in Vancouver. Some are more recent connections. To all those who have been here through the years and struggles: I love you and I could not have done it without you! These people often came into my life because I got involved and put myself out there. Trust me when I say that at times this has been so uncomfortable, and many times I have had my feelings hurt or my heart broken, BUT I have also made life long lasting friends, friend family, and memories!
Lastly, SELF CARE this is non negotiable. You can not fill anything from an empty glass, so fill your cup!
This Mother’s Day, to celebrate all the things I’ve learned and celebrate all you amazing mother’s/caregivers/pet mommies, literally women taking care of those around you, I wanted to share this list of self care ideas. The last year has been a year of pivoting and dodging bullets and coming up with a totally different way of doing almost everything. Including what we do to take care of ourselves and those around us. Hopefully you can use some of these ideas to help you feel revived and refreshed and know that you are special, you are beautiful, and you are loved! ❤️
But research also suggests that self-care can:
boost self-esteem
increase creativity
enhance productivity
The last year has been a year of pivoting and dodging bullets and coming up with a totally different way of doing almost everything. Including what we do to take care of ourselves and those around us. Hopefully you can use some of these ideas to help you feel revived and refreshed and know that you are special, you are beautiful, and you are loved! ❤️
1.Wash your face
I’m obsessed with Image Max Cleanser. It smells amazing, and it’s so soothing and really gentle on the eyes for those days where you forget to take your makeup off!
2. Exfoliate
Take five minutes to exfoliate, even if it’s just once a week. There’s no greater sensation than feeling your skin breathe! My new fav is using the Image Iluma Exfoliating Cleanser at least two days a week for an extra special exfoliation with the benefits of a gentle resurface and crazy kick of brightening.
3. Apply a face mask
Vital C Overnight mask is so amazing to further that hydration and glow and here’s the best part – it’s a gel you can leave on overnight. My other favorite is the Image Probiotic Mask for any of that stubborn “mask’ne”.
4. Have a cup of coffee
Getting an espresso machine changed our lives – we bought this one at Costco!
I love being able to make an almond milk cappuccino with one click and even better than that is the fact that we quit wasting money on Starbucks. The coffee at home is just way too good.
5. Spin
I LOVE my Peloton –It’s been a godsend! It was so hard to get back into the routine of going to the gym with my busy schedule and post Covid, with masks being a thing. I knew I wouldn’t go if it wasn’t in my house, so we made the jump and I’ve been so much more motivated to get a workout in. There are so many options for classes you can take, it's not just bike stuff. Follow me @rosebudburke and let’s keep each other on track.
6. Yoga
Practicing yoga is a great way to reduce stress and increase creativity.
I have absolutely loved popping into MomentOm Yoga for a yin or flow class when I’ve had time and they were amazing during the pandemic offering classes on Facebook for free. I am so grateful and plan to make a studio visit a part of my weekly routine.
7. Dance
As some of you may know I just started dance classes at Tamraloo Studios and it’s been AMAZING! I’m taking a musical theater jazz class and my inner musical nerd has been in heaven lol. I have always wanted to take dance classes. I was a pretty rowdy kid when I was younger and I remember being asked to leave ballet class when I was 6 for being too wild. Suffice it to say that was the end of my ballet career. I recently went online to a moms group and shared my experience and desire to start up again and to my surprise I was given many options and finally landed on Tamraloo and I couldn’t be happier. I will definitely blog more about that experience another time.
If you can’t make it to a class yourself right now just search for your favourite artist on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favourite tunes and have a dance party.
Wear earbuds at the grocery store, sync your phone to your car and jam on the way to work, or include your kids in the party while you conquer some chores together.
8. Take a shower
So simple, yet such a luxury for busy moms!
9. Put on makeup
Don’t worry about getting fancy unless you want to! You also don’t need to have to go somewhere special to wear makeup. These days my routine is just filling in my eyebrows and putting on a bit of mascara. It gives me the boost of confidence I need in case I run into someone I know at grocery store 😛 makeup: it Cosmetics, mascara: Benefit They’re Real Beyond, brow: Anastasia Brow Duo Powder
10. Style your hair
How long have you been wearing a top knot, mama? I wore one exclusively for about a year and a half – yikes! Throwing in some beach waves when my hair was longer was my favorite. I would either do it with my L'ange Curling Wand or my Mermaid Crimper. Yes, I said crimper 😆 lol who knew it would be a thing again!
Want to try something new without spending a lot of time styling your hair? Mix it up with a cute headband like this knotted headband or a boho wrap.
11. Listen to a song you haven’t heard in ages
I confess – I’m a little obsessed with music. Like, all music. I could give you recommendations from Opera to punk to rap to country. Some of my absolute favorite (which, let's be honest, also happen to be the best 😜) songs of all time would be “California” by Led Zeppelin, Whitney Houston “I Wanna Dance With Somebody”, Elton John “Benny and the Jets”, Queen “Somebody to Love”, Fleetwood Mac “Landslide”, and some of my assitants favorites (more to come on that surprise soon!) include Garth Brooks “The Dance”, John Mayer “Say”, The Beatles “Here Comes the Sun”, Chris Stapleton “Tennessee Whiskey”, Van Morrison “Days Like This, Sam Hunt “Speakers”, anything Martina McBride, Kelly Clarkson, and Christina Aguilera... and so many more. (Now try and tell me you didn’t just throw one of these on 😜)
12. Put on your favorite playlist on Spotify
And make it LOUD!
Even if you’re just bopping your head while you work on the computer or unload the dishwasher, a playlist that energizes you can feed your soul for the rest of the day. Some of the best playlists are Beach, Melody Gardot, Sade, California Love, Paul Simon, Sunny Day, Yoga & Meditation, Throwback Jams, and Country Kind of Love.
13. Start a new show on Netflix, Hulu, Or Amazon
Sometimes lounging is nice – so, make yourself a healthy snack and turn on a show that interests you!
14. Journal
As much as I love getting out of my head, sometimes facing the things you’re struggling with has that much more of an impact. Oftentimes, it might also be easier to express yourself in writing than talking it out.
This gorgeous Moleskin notebook is a luxury to write in.
15. Read a book
Reading just feels good – whether you’re learning or just want a bit of entertainment. I finished “Greenlights” by Matthew McConaughey recently and really enjoyed the tips for happiness it has to offer!
16. Listen to a podcast
My hubby kind of got me hooked on Joe Rogan, I love the way he interviews and has people from all walks on his show. I also really enjoy Jenna Kutcher for my business needs and ideas. I’m fairly new to podcasts so if you have a good one please do share.
17. Get a massage
Getting a professional massage is wonderful! With my line of work I need them often. I absolutely love Gloria at my office and Kendall at Sacred Soul Massage. When I can't get in for my normal appointment I love using my neck massager that I got from my fab fit fun box – I like to use it when I’m reading or writing!
18. Get a manicure or pedicure
I have lots of suggestions if you need someone local!
19. Go to bed early
And then there are days where the little one doesn't nap – eep! Hit the hay early to get the recharge you need. On days I have multiple brows or pull a 10-12 hour shift, I often get home and faceplant into bed. I always feel so much better when I get to bed earlier.
20. Take a nap
Sometimes you can’t argue with the body – you just need to rest. You will feel more patient, are less easily agitated, and make better decisions when you’ve had enough sleep.
21. Clean your home
There is nothing like having a clean home! Being able to control your environment feels good when external factors have got you down.
22. Tackle a chore you’ve been dreading
It could be something as simple as folding laundry or as complex as downsizing your kids’ wardrobes.
23. Go for a drive
I have done this my whole life! It's literally one of my favorite ways to clear my head or de-stress. Sometimes it feels good just going somewhere without a final stop in mind.
24. Write a to do list for the week or month ahead
Ah, there is something about having a plan that feels SO good! I try to group my days in three’s, meaning there are just three major things I need to accomplish among everything I set out to do that day. For me, this could be:
Creating and working on my social media photos
working out for 30 minutes
three household chores – i.e. unloading/reloading the dishwasher, completing one load of laundry, pre-chopping fruits and veggies for the week
Yep, there are a lot of three's here but for me, it just works. Find a number that feels manageable for you and makes you feel good about your day's accomplishments!
25. Light a candle
Candles are so relaxing! And the best part is you can double down on self-care by reading a book or working by candlelight in the evening. Pure bliss! I have the most amazing soy DoTerra candles for purchase that are sure to make you feel inspired or relaxed.
26. Write a list of goals for the year ahead
Be as modest or dream as big as you like, mama! Plan crafts, renovations, or career moves – the skies the limit.
27. Cook a meal you love
This could be something that your family loves too! For us, it's tacos. Quick and easy and everyone gets to decide their own toppings because I put it out buffet style
28. Go for a walk
Connecting with nature is a wonderful thing. This is a fun time to try walking a different way than you usually do. You can blast your new playlist, listen to a podcast or just listen to the sound of nature. And should inspiration strike, stop to shoot a couple amazing pictures of nature with your phone and use them for your social media or art work around your house.
29. Create a vision board
This is such an amazing way to get out of your head while creating dreams that feel attainable. I absolutely love doing this and I can’t believe how powerful they are. You can use old magazines, print pictures off the internet, or start a vision board on Pinterest with images that reflect the life you want!
30. Take a Break From Tech
It’s nice to take time out from the digital world. This is super important for both moms and kids. Both need time away from technology and both need to give each other your undivided attention which is hard to do when we are distracted.
31. Declutter
Doing a purge can help so much mentally. It frees up space for new things and new ideas to come into your life.
32. Monitor your screen time + set limits
Turn on Screen Time for your iPhone and Mac to see how long you’re actually spending with your devices! Set limits for yourself and control the urge “just to check”.
33. Make a date with your spouse
Sometimes we get so busy with our kids that we forget our partners. Make time for yours, even if it’s just sharing a glass of wine together after the kids go down and share about one another's day.
34. Dress up
Step out of the ordinary and wear something that makes you feel good today! I love to also accessorize, I put on my glasses, hats, and jewelry. It just makes you feel fabulous.
35. See a movie
I don't know about you guys but I'm so stinkin excited that the theaters are opening back up! I can't wait to go back to Studio Movie Grill, it’s one of my favorites!
36. Take a bath
Soaking in the tub is a wonderful way to relax at the end of a long day or week! (Here’s a great article if you’d like to learn more about the perfect bath mixture.) I love doterra lavender, orange, and eucalyptus for the perfect mix of relaxing and heart healing. I also love epsom salt and this is one of my favorite brands.
37. Do your eyebrows
Never shaped your eyebrows before? This kit from Anastasia is perfect for total beginners! Just choose a stencil, fill in your brows, and tweeze any excess hairs that fall outside of that shape. I feel like a million bucks when my eyebrows are on point!
38. Have a glass of wine
I never understood why my mom loved wine so much until I became a mom too! Here’s an adorable glass to sip your next glass in.
Slow drinker or easily distracted? Guilty! Try an insulated mom glass instead – this was a game changer for me, haha!
39. Drink some tea
Drinking tea is so relaxing! This organic sampler set is enough for 24 special self-care treats and is one of my personal favourites!
40. Write a list of struggles you’ve overcome
You’ll surprise yourself after just a few entries!
41. Clean your office
If you had to guess how many of those pens in your drawer still work, are you over or under 50%? I use clear organizers for my desk and bathroom drawers – it’s easier to see and I can actually find things when I need them! It also helps you see things that you no longer want or need.
42. Stop making excuses
Practice this daily. Eliminate reasons you “can’t” and start taking care of business. It’s easier said than done but after a while, you’ll see past the excuses and start thinking about the actions you need to take to accomplish your goals.
43. Take a walk around the IKEA showroom
Snap pictures of ideas that inspire you! I also took the IKEA Catalogue home and put post-its all over brilliant organization and design hacks. I literally did this today.
44. Apply essential oil rollers
I love my OnGuard and Breathe DoTerra rollers. I can make these for you or make a blend at your request!
45. Create a meal plan for the week
I find this therapeutic! Meal planning is also a fantastic way to save money by planning around the things you already have. If you haven't read my last blog there are some helpful shopping lists and meal prep ideas. You can check it out here.
46. Pre-chop fruits and veggies for the week
I love being able to open the fridge and pull out a container full of pre-chopped yummy greens! I use My Fitness Pal for healthy eating ideas and these containers for meal prep. It takes a little bit of work but it feels wonderful for the body and mind!
47. Write down everything that’s bothering you
Now toss it in the trash! Or light it on fire. Either way, let that ish go!
48. Paint your nails
It doesn’t matter if you have nowhere to go!
49. Delete unused apps from your phone
Clean out your digital clutter!
50. Go grocery shopping – for healthy food!
Head to your local store or a fancy health food store and stock up on delicious foods. Read labels for additives and unnatural ingredients, plus sugar and salt content. Bonus points for choosing products without an ingredients list or less than four ingredients!
51. Learn how to read labels
It’ll take time but it’s so worth it – you can start here. You are what you eat and if you can’t pronounce it, you probably shouldn’t consume it. Here are a few basic ingredients we steer clear from:
Canola Oil
Artificial Dyes – i.e. Red 3, Yellow 6, etc.
52. Downsize your closet
Haven’t worn it in over 6 months? Unless it’s formal wear, chances are you won’t wear it again. Empty out your closet and only put back the things you love and know you’ll wear.
53. Create a self-care emergency kit
Chocolate, wine, and face masks, water, your favorite book, anyone? These also make for great mom self-care gifts for loved ones and your mom squad!
54. Garden
I have fallen in love with my garden and every year it gets a little better. I promise to do more blogging about this!
55. Draw
It could be as simple as a few shapes or as abstract as you like. My daughters and I all have coloring books by Johanna Bashford and now she makes planners too. I like this one here. Here are a couple cute kid options:
And of course my favorite adult coloring books lol
56. Try a new type of cuisine
You could discover a new favorite. I will never forget the first time I tried Thai and I was so reluctant. Now it's my favorite!
57. Play an instrument or sing
Pick up an instrument and/or sing your heart out. Tamraloo Studios not only offers dance, but also music and singing classes.
58. Unfollow people on social media
We often compare ourselves to unrealistic expectations. Don’t let social media bring you down – only follow those who inspire you.
59. Floss
Taking care of our teeth and gums is so important and it can prevent issues from arising in the future.
60. Take photos
For your blog, social media, or otherwise!
61. Quit Negativity
Self-talk, gossip, or otherwise – ditch this one yesterday. Negative energy is contagious and exhausting!
62. Go outside
No need to go anywhere. Just take in the fresh air.
63. Buy new clothes
A new outfit has the power to make you feel like a new person. I have been loving Vici for a while now, but I also often take trips up to Auburn for Skyes Boutique.
64. Go swimming – or just float!
Being in water is such a relaxing feeling. These are my favorite pool floats.
65. Go through an old photo album
They grow up so fast, don’t they? And so did you!
66. Whiten your teeth
You know where to come! Book your next session with me HERE.
67. Call your spouse
Just to say I love you or text them something you love about them. Kindness feels good.
68. Wake up early
Set an alarm and enjoy some peace and quiet with a cup of coffee or other indulgence.
69. Meditate
You guys know this is my morning soul food. It's literally the one thing I can not go through my day without. A great help to me was downloading the Insight timer app to keep my meditations new, exciting, and consistent. The app is so user friendly and you can cater each session to what you need for the day. You can always reach out to me if you have any questions.
70. Write a gratitude list
Create a list of things you’re grateful for – place it in an obvious place for your friends and family to see how much you mean to them.