Best thing you have done for YOURSELF lately??

[Angel]

I was wondering what the best thing everyone has done lately for themselves?
I have just gotten braces (as of 2 months ago) I know that may not seem like much but I am 28 and I have never been happy with my smile, so I worked up the courage and did it. I know it has only been a few months but I can see a difference. Now I smile and I am not worried if people see my "tin grin" http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[hhcowgirl]

Maintaining (or trying to http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif) a regular schedule for yoga practice has been the best thing I have done for myself. I wish I had the time to do it even more, though.

[Laura Wick]

Getting up early enough to rollerblade in the mornings. Doubly good, because my dog goes with me, and we both get some much-needed exercise. I am also doing this to prevent osteoporosis and maintain my sense of balance.

[MarciaTJ]

Hi Angel-

With the stress of the holidays just past, working in corporate america and trying to also complete applications for grad school - I've decided to take a much needed "mental health" day, and treat myself to a facial and pedicure. And the balance of the day eating healthfully and reading for sheer pleasure - I can't wait!!!

[kwormann]

This is very sad, but I just realized I havent done anything for myself, and I am so stressed right now..it doesnt take anything to get me in tears....maybe I need to treat me to something.....

anyone have any ideas about a FREE treat? (part of the stress is the possibility if DH losing his job)

Kim

[HARRYET]

Kim,

sorry to hear about your stress and your husband's job.

how about, running a hot tub w/bubbles, placing candles around the room, and a glass of wine, sit and soak (lock the door---so you can't be bothered) then curl up with a good book!

hope that helps a little, will be thinking of you, try to keep smiling!

Ann

[Natasha]

Kim,

I m sorry to hear about how stressful things are for you right now. I ll keep my fingers crossed that all goes well for your husband (and you, of course). Keep us posted.

In the meantime, I agree with Ann s suggestions. It doesn t cost much to do any of those things, and they are relaxing. One of her suggestions was reading - what a terrific way to forget about your cares (at least for a while) and be taken to another world. (You probably saw that lengthy thread on the Great Food board just recently with book suggestions...)

Another option is to cook a special meal or bake a nice dessert (nothing too fancy or stressful to make, just something you both enjoy) for you and your husband. Cooking can be such a good way to work off steam and to envelope yourself with comforting aromas.
You could also take a leisurely walk (or a power walk!) in a pretty neighborhood, or meet an old friend for coffee and a 2-hour chat.

Anyway, hang in there and we re thinking of you.


[This message has been edited by Natasha (edited 01-22-2001).]

[MrsReber]

Okay, here goes- the best thing I did for myself lately was NOTHING. Yes, nothing. I loved it. I got up Sunday, saw it was snowy and icy and decided I was going to watch a movie and cross stitch and not feel guilty about lounging on the couch for a few hours. This morning, I had the torture commute to work -over two hours, and 40 minutes of that standing outside in 10 degree weather waiting and waiting for a train! Then I got to stand on the train for another 40 minutes. All I could think was "I am so glad that I took all that time for myself yesterday!"

Kim, I am so sorry to hear of your troubles. It's times like those (my husband was laid off a year and a half ago, but they called him back) that I have to sit back and remember all the good things that I have to be thankful for- remember each day is a gift that we are given.

[food girl]

Kim,
One think I like to do when I am feeling down is swing (on a swing set, not with other men!). It recalls the freedom of childhood for me.

Angel,
Way to go with your braces! My DH has had braces for 3 years now & I remember what a big deal it was for him to get them on, but now he is completely used to them. They will be coming off in March - Yea!

I recently went and bought some new eyeshadow and had the whole professional make-up application. Of course I look like Mimi on Drew Carey when I try to do it myself, but it was fun.

[sal]

Kim, along the lines of foodgirl, when I am bummed, I blow bubbles. I envision each problem/whatever floating away with the bubbles. I usually have "bubble stuff" (for my kids - wink wink), but have been known to concoct my own (dish deterg, H20 and a smidge of Karo syrup). I will keep you/DH in my thoughts. sally

[Angelina]

Kim,

I wish you and your husband lots of luck. My husband lost his job a few years ago, was out of work for about a year (he went back to school and got his bachelor's), and when he finally got a new job, he was diagnosed with diabetes and spent 2 weeks in the hospital. Thank God for MY insurance. I guess what I am trying to say is hang in there, sometimes a change gives us a chance to do something new.

In the meanwhile, treat yourself well, because he will need you! If there is a park near you, take walks..enjoy nature..or get some coloured pencils and doodle..

::hugs::

Angela

[Pat58]

Kim, I really wish you all of the best. Even though it doesn't seem like it now, it will all work out. But I do wish you the very best for getting through until things look brighter. I bet a good workout will help you and remind you how strong you are.

[SusieO]

The best thing I did for myself this past year was to quit my crappy job in the frigid midwest to take a wonderful new job in sunny Florida. The best thing I did today was to sit outside at lunchtime with my dog and a good book and enjoy the sunshine.

Kim: sorry to hear of your troubles. Is the Houston Zoo still free? That might be a good way to unwind a bit. Or maybe a trip to the art museum...

[SusanD]

The other day I treated myself to new shoes with an expense check. Money's a little tight these days and with a baby on the way we're trying to figure out how we're going to manage mortgage payment, car payment, daycare, etc. Well last week I received a mileage check that I forgot I was going to get, so instead of using it to buy groceries or pay a bill, I decided to do something frivolous and fun and go shoe shopping.

Interesting thought...last week while my husband and I were looking at our budget and trying to figure out where we could cut corners to make ends meet, we had the t.v. on. Just as I was about to burst into tears and ask why is it so hard for us when no one else seems to have these problems, a story came on about that horrible earthquake in Nicaragua and it showed all those people whose houses were in crumbles and had nothing. It really put things into perspective and made me realize that, although it's not a lot, I need to be thankful for what I have. Wonder if it was a "coincidence" that that story came on when it did, or if perhaps someone was trying to send me a reminder...

Kim, we're all thinking about you & your husband! One of my favorite things to do when I'm feeling down or stressed is to rent a really funny movie and have a big bowl of ice cream with it. "Ferris Buehler's Day Off" always puts a smile on my face.

[Natasha]

I'm going to try to go for a makeover this weekend. I've never done that before, and am hoping it will be fun and relaxing.

SusanD - I enjoyed your insightful comments. It is easy to think that nobody around you has any problems, but there are always reminders out there of how lucky we all are. Have a great day. I'm glad I reread your message this morning. I needed one of those reminders myself. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Kim, hope things are well with you.

[Susann]

Kim-Hang in there! For whatever it is worth, my dh has indeed lost his job right smack dab in the middle of a whole slew of medical problems for me! I totally know how it feels to break into tears at any given point. However, I do know that things are gonna work out.

You *need*to do whatever you can for yourself. Since you are a teacher, you may forget about that every once in awhile, huh!!!! I have found (and this may sound corny) that going to the park makes me feel better. It is easy. It is beautiful, and (especially important now) it is free!!!

[Natasha]

Susann,
I am so sorry to hear about these developments. You and your family are in my thoughts and I hope things look up soon. You have a positive attitude, though, and you're strong. I'm sure you'll get through this. If you ever want to cry or vent, though, you know we're here.
Natasha

[SusanD]

Susann - you & your husband are in my prayers. I remember you mentioning your situation on another post. I hope all goes well and that you & your husband are able to have a baby!

Natasha - it's easy to lose perspective, isn't it? Sometimes I just need that little kick in the pants to remind myself how lucky I really am.

Kim - BIG HUG to you, I hope you're able to find some peace this weekend.

[Susann]

Natasha and Susan-thank you ever so much for your encouragement. They help more than I can say! I am currently taking nightmare medication which turns me into a moody and hormonal monster (my husband is scared of me!) and now whenever I am feeling icky, I can look at your kind words to make me feel better!

[mary4815]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by sal:
[B]Kim, when I am bummed, I blow bubbles. I envision each problem/whatever floating away with the bubbles. I usually have "bubble stuff" (for my kids - wink wink), but have been known to concoct my own (dish deterg, H20 and a smidge of Karo syrup).
Sal:
I cannot believe this: Other people actually think like I do? This past summer I was SO stressed and knew I needed some quiet time. Got a bottle of bubbles maker and took homemade lemonade and went to the park. Sat in the shade and blew bubbles and let my mind relax. Came to the realization that only I could manage the level of stress. Allowed myself to have a mini-case-of-sniffles (which felt quite good), and went home with a different view of everything. Cannot believe I am telling you this....Thanks for sharing with us in the first place. Mary 4815

[traci]

After reading this baord I realized that if I do not take care of myself ALL THE TIME, I will have more trouble dealing those negative things in life. I have picked up reading and long walks with the dog. A great book is a good escape and walking lets me clear my head. I am going through the "husband getting laid off and looking for work" ordeal and the stress that culminates in the evenin s can be a bit overwhelming. I loved everyones inspirational words and am definitely going to try the bubble technique. What a great idea!!

I have this at my desk "Nothing is at last sacred but the integrity of your own mind." Ralph Waldo Emerson

Best of luck to everyone for staying mentally healthy and strong in spirit.

[SueK]

I usually post on the Food board, but haven't on this board yet. Anyway, the best thing I've done for myself is to start working out again. In the past few months, I've lost some family members, and I guess it hit home that I need to take my health more seriously. So, I dusted off my old workout tapes (I work out at home), bought some new ones, bought some new workout gear to pump myself up, and I've been doing it. I feel so much better already, and it's only been a month. I don't even care if I lose weight---it's been great for my mental health so far, and I wish I would have done this a year ago!

[BeckyM]

I feel really motivated to reply to this post, because I did something great for myself this morning. I got out of bed early to exercise! I did the Tae Bo basic tape, and then I did a Tai Chi tape specifically made for doing in the morning. The Tae Bo tape got my heart rate going and made me sweat, and the Tai Chi tape was relaxing, calming, and centering. I usually don't spend nearly enough time on the relaxation type stuff, so I'm doubly proud of myself for taking the time to do that. I feel like I got the day off to a great start! Though it was difficult to drag myself out of bed, the good feeling I've still got definitely was worth it!

[bradleymelissa]

My latest fun thing has been to re-acquire all the books I loved in childhood and as a "young adult" (to use library parlance) and to reread them shamelessly in public.

[Angel]

Good for you Becky. I use to work out in the AM, it always made me feel better and made my day not so stressful. I have not been back to the gym in the AM in a LONG time. You have inspired me http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Originally posted by BeckyM:
I feel really motivated to reply to this post, because I did something great for myself this morning. I got out of bed early to exercise! I did the Tae Bo basic tape, and then I did a Tai Chi tape specifically made for doing in the morning. The Tae Bo tape got my heart rate going and made me sweat, and the Tai Chi tape was relaxing, calming, and centering. I usually don't spend nearly enough time on the relaxation type stuff, so I'm doubly proud of myself for taking the time to do that. I feel like I got the day off to a great start! Though it was difficult to drag myself out of bed, the good feeling I've still got definitely was worth it!

[Gina O]

Just wanted to add something to this post... yesterday I stopped by my little sister's office, I had not seen her in a couple weeks. Turns out I didn't recognize her!!! (not quite true but close)

There is a salon here that uses a TV stations as advertising by doing "Monday Morning Makeovers". My sister scheduled an appointment (she was a no makeup, no hairstyling, jeans and a sweatshirt kinda girl) and got the whole shebang!!! New, fabulous, up-to-date haircut, haircolor, manicure, make-up lessons and make-up. Now she takes the time to fix her hair and do her makeup every morning and she really looks and feels amazing. (She also bought a bunch of new clothes).

I am so happy for her and wanted to share it as a "best thing" Gina