We all know how difficult it can be to prioritise our own health and happiness [1], especially when stress levels are high [2]. Fortunately, Spotify's "Daily Wellness" playlists have made self-care more accessible than ever, using a mix of music and podcasts to bring mindfulness and positivity to every day.
For a long time, I didn't even really understand what wellness was, and I certainly wasn't dedicating time in my daily routine to it. But I've since learned that it's all about taking steps toward a healthier, more satisfying life [3], and the path to wellness is different for everyone. For some, it takes the form of a green smoothie or morning yoga, and for others, it might look like going on an afternoon walk or reading a chapter of a book before bed.
As someone who struggles with anxiety and depression, figuring out how and when to incorporate "me time" into my routine — and for that matter, even accepting that I'm worthy of "me time" — has been challenging. I've tried practicing yoga and meditation, going on mindful walks [4], and a number of other things, but I'd never been able to keep up with them consistently. I'd pretty much given up on incorporating wellness into my everyday routine until I discovered my "Daily Wellness" playlist.
Found under the Made For You section of the app, Spotify's "Daily Wellness" playlists consist of personalized feel-good music picks, mixed with podcasts like Yoga Girl Daily and The Slowdown. Each morning, the playlist is updated with episodes and songs to get you motivated [6], and in the evening, it refreshes with content to help you relax and unwind.
I usually listen to my playlist first thing in the morning while doing other tasks, such as making myself breakfast or even taking a shower.
Because I already spend hours on Spotify every day, the playlist fits seamlessly into my routine. I usually listen to it first thing in the morning while doing other tasks, such as making myself breakfast or even taking a shower. I find that the combination of empowering songs — some of which I already know and some of which are refreshingly new to me — and quick meditation practices or breathing exercises give me the time and tools I need to feel centreed then and throughout the day.
If you're like me and struggling to squeeze in some much-needed self-care, your "Daily Wellness" playlist may be just what you need to feel more mindful and inspired every day. Whether I'm dancing around my room to a Tyler, the Creator remix or standing in front of the mirror following a guided gratitude exercise, this playlist has become a significant part of my daily routine. We all deserve to feel calmer and happier, and this is one simple way to find those moments more often.