Self-care doesn’t always mean a glass of wine and a bath bomb. As one London therapist and illustrator is pointing out, even the most boring and mundane activities help you take care of yourself.
Mental Health Occupational Therapist Hannah Daisy uses her popular Instagram series, #BoringSelfCare, to encourage people to treat themselves better through tiny, simple ways – like trimming their toenails or washing their bras.
"I started noticing that online, it was often only about nice, lovely things you can do for yourself — like a bubble bath, a massage, or buying nice crystals," Daisy told Mashable.
"In my profession, we talk about self-care involving a much wider range of occupations, or things you have to do every day — doing the dishes, washing, dressing, housework, laundry."
Daisy says these small acts of life maintenance help up feel less stressed, calmer, and more focused, which can be crucial for keeping up a positive outlook on life.
"I hope people [realize] that doing boring tasks are just as valid forms of self-care as any other activity," she said. "But also I wanted to shine a light on how when you're unwell, the tasks most people take for granted are actually some of the hardest things to do."
So, go on. Wipe down your counter tops, put on some lotion, and finally get around to folding that last load of laundry. You’ll thank yourself later.
