3 Tips For Balancing Work And Life With A Dose Of Nature And Self-Care

The world is a chaotic place - our life shouldn't be. If you're like us, you're juggling several things and you're seeking tips for balancing work and life. Maybe throw in some pampering and self-care. 

That would be nice, right? 

We all need to find something that makes us a bit happier and relaxed. 

Let's explore some smart and easy ways you can get some balance between work and life.

Tips For Balancing Work And Life: Time, Self-Care And Nature

Before we jump into the list, there's a prerequisite thing you need to do. We promise it's not anything difficult. 

That one thing is mindset. 

When you don't give yourself permission to carve out time for yourself, none of this will work. 

So, repeat after us: "It's perfectly acceptable to schedule at least 15 minutes of "me time" for myself every day." 

Now let's jump into the first tip. 

1. Start Your Morning With A Self-Care Moment

What do we mean by a moment? How do you do this? 

You know that moment when your alarm goes off and you're about to get up out of bed? Yeah, that lazy moment? It's the perfect time to give yourself a "moment" to:

• Look at the world around you (your bedroom, outside your window),
• Stretch your muscles - feel your body moving
• Determine your number one goal for the day. Write it down in a notebook. We like to keep one by our bedsides. 
• Decide on one good thing to do that day (how to put a smile on somebody's face)
• Say thank you (if you're spiritual/religious) for the opportunity to wake up and seize the day
• A moment could be 5 minutes. It could be 10 minutes. Avoid looking at your phone or tablet. Focus on yourself. 

Try one of these tips! Determine which one works best for you. 

Photo by bruce mars on Unsplash

2. Go Outside And Get Sunshine (Or At Least Fresher Air)

There's something about getting a dose of natural Vitamin D from the sun. Aside from the health benefits which we won't delve into here, the sunshine makes us happy. 

The colours of nature are brighter, with more contrast. If you go for a walk, it's even better - a change of scenery is always better than being stuck at home or the office. 

Here are a few ways to get a quick 15 minutes outdoors during a lunch break: 

• Take a walk around your neighbourhood
• Head to a local park for a walk along a trail
• If you live by a lake, have your lunch by the shoreline

Ten minutes can do wonders. Try it and see if it works for you. 

Related: How To Immerse Yourself In Nature When You Don't Have Time

Photo credit: Photo by Fuu J on Unsplash

3. Take A Break In Your Personal Space

We've made one corner of our bedroom a "relax" zone. A comfortable armchair with one of our cushions, a lamp and a little plant on a repurposed sewing storage cabinet. 

This is where we unwind at the end of the day to transition from the busy work day and dinner to the time before bedtime. 

Whatever your style, some of the things that make your chair and space cozy and comfortable can be: 

• A small cushion with a simple design in soothing nature-inspired colours
• Cozy blanket 
• A footrest
• Plants - including those that clean the air like the spider plant
• Soft lighting - aim for an incandescent light for a warm glow or muted natural light

Have a coffee or tea break in your favourite spot and you'll find yourself feeling more balanced. 

Keep It Simple And Soothing

You could certainly spend time in a yoga studio or with another activity, but sometimes the simplest routines can greatly change how you feel at the end of the day. 

Need more ideas and nature inspiration? Follow us on Instagram for more ideas on how to keep life in balance.