It’s easy to fill a day with things that need doing and reach the evening without doing anything simply because you enjoy it.
Perhaps the book stays unopened, the puzzle waits in its box or coffee with a friend becomes something you’ll arrange “when things settle down.” After a while, even our favourite activities can start to feel like extras we have to earn.
As we explore Heart Health Month self care ideas, I want to make room for this part of everyday wellbeing too: finding the things that bring us joy and giving them a little space in our lives.
Your joy will look like you
For you, it might be reading, watching a game, playing a sport, working on a puzzle or sharing a laugh over coffee.
It doesn’t need to be impressive, productive or something anyone else would choose. You’re allowed to enjoy it simply because it makes your day a little brighter.
For me, one of those things is decorating
I enjoy putting together a little display, changing a few seasonal touches or finding a spot for flowers. A favourite teapot, a splash of pink and something I already own can become a corner that makes me smile each time I pass.
The pleasure is in the creating as much as the finished arrangement. Moving things around, trying a different combination and enjoying the colours is part of the fun.
Some of that creativity finds its way into my business too. Arranging products with a few thoughtful touches lets me bring something I enjoy into my work. It’s one way I make room for my own interests within the activities already on my calendar.
Give enjoyment a place in your week
We often make appointments for our responsibilities while leaving our own enjoyment to chance.
Try choosing one small thing you’d like to do this week and giving it a time. Read for fifteen minutes after lunch. Leave a puzzle where you can return to it. Arrange that coffee visit. Refresh one little corner of your home.
Keep it manageable. This is something to look forward to, rather than another task to complete.
A little room for you
Self care for women over 40 includes the everyday habits we build around food, movement and rest. There is room within that picture for creativity, friendship, laughter and enjoyment too.
You don’t need a special occasion or a perfectly clear calendar.
Start with one thing you love, and make a little room for it.