In my humble opinion, the most crucial connection is the one with oneself. How can you be there for everyone else if you neglect your own needs and personal time?
Believe me when I say that investing time and care in making yourself happy will provide you with the stamina and space needed to cultivate meaningful and profound connections with others.
Here are 10 ideas for spending quality time with yourself.
1. Dates
Yes, you can go on a date with yourself, and it's perfectly fine. This is something you would typically do with another person to strengthen the connection and spend time together. Why not do the same for yourself? It's tremendously important to have a deep understanding of oneself before any kind of connection with others. This is how you will understand yourself better and know what you actually enjoy. Not to mention, you can discover and try new places and foods, for example.
2. Gifts
Buying gifts for yourself is a great way to show appreciation for your beautiful existence. Flowers, a piece of clothing, or a new gadget—why not? You deserve it! After all, we live once, and you know your taste better, as well as what you need.
3. Happy Meal
Do you have a favorite meal? How about preparing your favorite dish just for yourself? I love to arrange a plate with my favorite fruits and snacks, making it aesthetically pleasing, almost like in a fancy restaurant. Of course, don't forget your favorite drink.
4. Movie Night
Nothing feels better than curling up on the cozy couch with a bunch of fluffy pillows and a soft blanket, then playing a movie or even a show you want to watch. Of course, you have to make the space as cozy as possible, plus your "Happy Meal" is a dream. If you have the opportunity to watch the movie on a projector, please try it. It is so much more romantic.
5. Journaling
I cannot express enough how journaling releases your stressed thoughts and worries. I have found solutions to so many topics only by writing my thoughts and emotions on paper. Somehow, it helps your mind to see how simple the situation is and how simple the solution can be. Your feelings on paper make so much more sense. This is one of the best ways to connect with yourself.
6. Hobby
Find a hobby that makes your soul dance. Having a hobby means you're never bored. It can be still and calm, like sewing, drawing, and cooking, or more physical, like the gym, dance, or running. All of those are pretty useful skills and help you enjoy yourself. You will become richer as a person, and your mind and body will be tuned. What's better than this?
7. Pamper
A long, hot shower or a bathtub with lots of bubbles. Aroma candles and a face mask. Use everything you love to take care of your body, and I guarantee you'll feel like you are reborn. Showing self-love and care for the body is a great way to feel better and ground yourself.
8. Walks/Jogging
You may not be the sportiest person in the world, but moving your body is a proven way to unlock some good mood. Sometimes I put on my headphones, play a favorite playlist, and go out for a walk. It works like meditation for me. I clear my head of any worries and just enjoy the outdoors and the music. I play different scenarios in my mind for the dreams and wishes I have. This is how I manifest.
9. Sport
Taking care of your health is really the best way to connect with yourself. To me, working out regularly is mandatory. It's my favorite way to show up for myself. Not only do I look better, but I feel and think better. I gain a healthy amount of self-esteem because I choose to spend time and money on my health instead of anything else. You all know the benefits of working out regularly, so I won't bore you, but finding a favorite sports activity is quite a quality time spent.
10. Spa Day
Going to the spa is relaxing and grounding. There are more and more places you can go for a day and enjoy a sauna, steam room, or even a massage. Your body and soul will thank you. If this is not well-spent time, I don't know what it is.
That is all for today.
Have fun and love yourself!