In today's world, most of us seek self-fulfilment by improving our health and well-being through a lens of betterment. Together with John Lewis, we're redrawing the traditional boundaries of wellness to help you prioritise better versions of yourself over unrealistic expectations and ideals.
Let's get one thing straight: self-care isn't selfish or self-centered. It's necessary. And just like regular doctor visits, a healthy diet, and a solid seven hours of sleep, me time is an important form of self-care. Now more than ever, carving out time to focus on your well-being is an everyday practice that can make a world of difference in your quality of life.
The problem is, prioritising yourself doesn't always come easy. With never-ending to-do lists, slowing down and focusing on you is often the last thing on your mind. The truth is, though, self-care is essential for operating at your best. Anything that makes you feel good can be considered self-care, and the beauty is, you don't need a holiday to reap the benefits.
Even if you just have an hour of free time, the quick-fix practices ahead will refresh your spirit and recharge your mind. Cheers to everyday self-care — you deserve it.
Treat Yourself to a Relaxing Spa Session
A day at the spa is basically the epitome of relaxation. Whether you're in need of a radiance-boosting facial or a stress-reducing massage, John Lewis makes getting calm easy and convenient. At its Clarins Skin Spas (available at 15 John Lewis stores nationwide), the department store offers a wide range of wellness treatments for your entire body that will help you unwind and clear your head. Think deep-tissue, hot-stone, and scalp massages, as well as hydrating and rejuvenating skin-care treatments.
Even if you have less than 30 minutes to spare, you can still indulge in an effective session. All 30 John Lewis Clarins counters nationwide offer complimentary Express Skin Services, and each one takes just 10 minutes. The most popular treatments are the the Mini Facial called "Ready Steady Glow" and the makeup service called "Complexion Perfection." Also, whilst you're there, you can pick up some of your favourite Clarins products and continue pampering yourself from home.
Follow this link to find your local spa and to view the various Clarins Skin Spa experiences that are available at John Lewis stores. You can book by calling your local branch.
Squeeze In a Quick Yoga Practice
Yoga is known to relieve stress, boost flexibility, increase strength, and improve your overall mental health — just to name a few of the benefits. It's a great way to centre yourself and focus on the present. Even quick sessions will help you feel lighter and more energised. Search for free videos online, and consider trying one during your lunch break or first thing in the morning.
Step Outside For a Power Walk
It's amazing what the great outdoors can do for your soul — and complexion. Fresh air and sunshine are instant mood boosters, and coupled with light exercise like walking, you've got a recipe for serenity. When you're outside, your pores open up, allowing your skin to breathe better, which helps reduce breakouts. Remember though, sun cream is essential whenever you step outside — no matter how sunny it may appear. Clarins Multi-Active Day Cream with SPF 20 is the perfect protective moisturiser for daytime use. Not only does it guard your skin from harmful rays, it also prevents and visibly diminishes the first signs of ageing caused by stress, pollution, and lack of sleep.
So throw in your earbuds, and press play on a meditation exercise or a favourite podcast. No matter how much or how little time you have, stay present, enjoy your surroundings, and feel good about moving your body.
Write a Bucket List
List making is something most of us do every day. Usually, these lists revolve around things we have to do — assignments, chores, errands, etc. So taking the time to sit down and list things you want to do, try, and experience is a simple yet genuinely fun way to get yourself excited about the future. It only takes a few minutes to feel inspired. Try creating various lists: one for activities, one for dream destinations, one for must-try restaurants, one for must-read books — the options are endless.
Create a Vision Board
Unleash your inner child with a craft. A more hands-on, visual version of a manifestation journal, creating a vision board will spark major creativity while helping you focus on what makes you happy. Cut out magazine pictures, grab some paints, get fancy with glitter — there are no rules. After you're finished, hang it on the fridge or on your bathroom mirror to remind yourself of your goals. You can even snap a photo of it and set it as the background on your phone or laptop.
Create an At-Home Spa Experience
When you look good, you feel good, and feeling good is what self-care is all about. Next time you need a pick-me-up, try transforming your space into a spa, and relaxing with a beauty treatment or two. John Lewis has everything you need to create a calming environment in your own home. With Clarins products such as hand and nail treatment cream, renewing body serum, and relaxing body oil, the luxurious brand will help you unwind and beautify yourself, leaving you feeling like a brand-new, confident you.
If you're not sure where to start, Clarins specialists and therapists located inside John Lewis stores can teach you simple techniques to try for yourself.
Whip Out a Good Book
If you're a book-lover who struggles to find time to read, any time at all can feel like a luxury. Try setting an alarm for a 30-minute reading session, or tell yourself that for every chore or two you complete, you get to read a new chapter. You can even read during a lunch break or while commuting. If you drive a lot, listening to a book on tape will do the trick as well. After all, there's nothing like a little escapism to get you out of your own head.
Spend Quality Time With a Mate
When thinking of self-care, it's usually solo activities that first come to mind. However, don't underestimate the power of a friendly face and stimulating conversation. Whether you're talking on the phone, video chatting, or seeing each other face to face, being around someone whose company you enjoy is an occasion to smile.
You don't need to schedule a two-hour dinner, either. On your way to the shops, try calling your best mate. Grabbing coffee in the morning? Invite your sister to tag along. It's all about finding small ways to fit in these important interactions.
Watch a Funny Video
Laughing is an instant, no-fail way to relieve stress and improve your mood. All you have to do is pick up a nearby device, open an app, and search for something that'll humour you. Even a 20-second video will get the job done. Laughter in itself releases endorphins and can even temporarily reduce pain. So what are you waiting for?
More From John Lewis
John Lewis wants to help you explore a holistic approach to health and happiness. Forget about quick fixes and focus on ongoing self-fulfillment by pursuing your passions, developing feel-good habits, and, ultimately, enriching your life.
To help you on your journey, when purchasing Clarins products from John Lewis, you receive free click and collect when you spend over £30 or free standard delivery on orders over £50.