They say that a Sunday well spent brings a week of content, and I’ve always found this to be true – both in terms of happiness and blog content! It’s hard to write when you’re burnt out, believe me. I need to relax not only for my own sanity, but to find inspiration and motivation to keep my business going. I firmly believe that the pandemic has taught us the importance of self-care, so if you haven’t made self care Sunday a weekly thing, then I highly recommend that you do! Every weekend, I try to take some time to pamper myself and do something that’s 100% for me. Here are seven ways you can do it, too.

1. Give Yourself a Facial

Find me someone who doesn’t feel amazing after a facial. I’ll wait. 

There’s really nothing quite like the feeling of beautiful, luminous skin. Fortunately, nowadays it’s easier than ever to give yourself an at-home facial. If you want a full guide, then check out this article but I’ve linked my favorite chemical peels and nourishing masks below.

If chemical facials aren’t your thing, then why not try dermaplaning or microneedling instead during self-care Sunday? 

Dermaplaning is the act of shaving your face with a scalpel, leaving you with unbelievably soft, luminous skin.

Microneedling, meanwhile, means using a dermaroller to create microtraumas and activate your body’s healing response. It’s a slightly intense form of self-care Sunday but the benefits are definitely worth it.

I’d say that microneedling has better long-term benefits than dermaplaning, but if you need a serious pick me up right here and now then reach for the scalpel. Oh, and don’t do these treatments within the same week – it’s too much for your face to handle.

2. Perform a Digital Detox

Whilst I don’t quite agree that social media is the root of all evil, there are many benefits of taking a day or two to detox yourself from Instagram, Facebook and the like. 

A digital detox can help you to reduce stress and anxiety, particularly if you struggle with low self-esteem. It also encourages you to be present in the moment and spend quality time with your loved ones, or even alone.

For more on doing a digital detox, check out this guide.

3. Dedicate Time to Your Health and Fitness 

I feel like I’m always banging on about the benefits of exercise, but that’s really because it’s just so good for your mental health. I used to think it was all about looking good, but in 2020 my exercise regime really helped me to cope with pandemic anxiety and it gave me a whole new perspective.

It really doesn’t matter what you do – just choose an activity that makes you feel good and forget about your woes for a while. I always make exercise a part of my self-care Sunday, but I do it fairly early so that I can relax for the rest of the day. For more inspiration, here’s a guide to the 5 best home fitness apps.

4. Give Yourself a Manicure 

Everyone loves a manicure and whilst you may not quite be able to replicate salon-standard results at home, it’s still a nice way to pamper yourself a little on a Sunday afternoon. 

I especially love Static’s press-on nails which allow me to get Insta-worthy acrylics without leaving my apartment. 

And don’t forget a good hand cream – I’ve linked my favorite products below but I recommend checking out my comprehensive guide here. Hands are one of the first parts of our body to show signs of aging, so it’s important to take care of them. 

For other easy at home beauty treatments, check out this article.

5. Give Yourself a Massage 

I know a DIY massage isn’t quite the same as heading to a spa for a professional service, but it can still be really nice and relaxing. 

First, I recommend spraying the room with some calming lavender sleep spray or using aromatherapy oils to create a spa-like scent.

Then, take a jade or quartz roller and gently massage your face. This is amazing for blood circulation, muscle toning and lymphatic drainage.

Next, take a massage roller tool and use it on your arms, neck and chest. Finish up with your favorite luxurious body cream or lotion and then you might be ready to treat yourself to a nap. 

6. Meditate

There are a whole host of benefits to meditation, including increased confidence, reduced anxiety and heightened focus. There are lots of free guided sessions on YouTube or you could use an app such as Calm or Headspace. Many smartwatches come with meditation features, too. 

7. Give Yourself a Tan 

Life is better with a tan and I actually really enjoy the process of applying self-tanner; it feels a lot like pampering to me. When I’m not in a hurry, I personally prefer to go for products with a guide color and then relax in loose-fitting loungewear until I’m ready to wash the product off.

For my ultimate self tanning guide, check out this article.

For more on self care, check out the following articles:

• How to Care for Your Mental Wellbeing During the Covid-19 Pandemic
• How to Get Better Beauty Sleep
• 8 Easy Ways to Boost Your Immune System