Simple Self-Care Strategies for Busy Authors

My affirmations chat hit a nerve last week! A good nerve. I'm so glad it helped so many of you! On that not of affirmative care, I'd like to introduce the idea for self care.

I've been working hard all year, and as the weather gets cooler up here in Virginia, and the leaves start to fall, I inevitably start to slow down.

It's around this time that I start sleeping in a bit, knocking off work early to read a book or go to the movies for a matinee, or just sit and stare at my navel -seriously!

I want you to take a moment to celebrate your hard work and dedication over this last year. You’ve spent countless hours crafting beautiful narratives and giving your characters the ride of their lives over three acts. But here’s a gentle reminder: don’t forget to give yourself a happy break too! 

Self-care is important for maintaining your creativity and enthusiasm, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some budget-friendly, simple self-care ideas that you can enjoy at home, along with a few treats that your first book's royalties can comfortably cover.

At-Home Self-Care Ideas

1. Unplug for a Day: Choose a day to completely disconnect from all digital devices. Spend the day reading a book, meditating, doing yoga, or simply lying back and listening to music. The digital detox will help clear your mind and reduce stress.

2. Create a Spa Day at Home: Gather some household items and pamper yourself. A long bath with Epsom salts, a homemade face mask made from kitchen ingredients, or a simple manicure can make you feel refreshed and cared for without spending a penny.

3. Journaling: Take some time each day to write down your thoughts in a journal. This isn't about crafting a story or brainstorming new ideas—it’s about reflecting on your feelings, experiences, and daily life. This can be a therapeutic way to process your emotions and unwind.

4. Nature Therapy: Spend time in nature. Whether it’s a walk in a nearby park, a visit to the beach, or simply sitting in your garden, being outdoors can significantly boost your mood and reduce feelings of fatigue.

5. Master a New Recipe: Cooking can be incredibly therapeutic. Try out a new recipe that challenges you without causing stress. The act of creating something delicious can be a great way to reward yourself—and you get to eat your results!

Self-Care with a Small Budget

1. Book a Professional Massage: If your first book has brought in some royalties, why not treat yourself to a professional massage? It’s a wonderful way to relieve stress and keep your body feeling relaxed and cared for.

2. Take a Local Mini-Vacation: Sometimes, a change of scenery is all you need to refresh your spirit. Spend a night in a local hotel, explore nearby towns, or visit local attractions you’ve never seen before. This mini-vacation can be as rejuvenating as any long-distance travel.

3. Attend a Workshop or Class: Use some of your earnings to enroll in a workshop or class that interests you. It could be related to writing, like a masterclass from a favorite author, or something entirely different like pottery, painting, or dance.

4. Subscription Services: Consider subscribing to a meditation app, a streaming service for a month, or a book club. These services can offer continual relaxation and enjoyment that fit into your regular schedule.

Remember, self-care isn't a luxury—it’s a necessary part of sustaining your passion and productivity as a writer. As I look forward to my massage this week and my writing retreat next month, I encourage you to plan your own form of escape. It doesn’t have to be elaborate; it just needs to be meaningful to you.

Take care of you,

Ines