5 basic building blocks for a healthy self-care routine


Self-care is a concept we all know to be good for us, but what is self-care exactly? Self-care is no stranger to the internet, with hundreds if not thousands of varying definitions posted in all corners of the web. The Oxford Dictionary defines self-care as "the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's health". That’s a good starting point. Self-care can mean something different to everyone, it boils down to the act of looking after oneself, whether that comes from a jar or the great outdoors, it’ all self-care. We love this definition of self-care by neuroscientist, researcher, author and Instagram wellness guru Dr Tara Swart, who defines self-care as "listening to your body and providing it with what it requires to thrive physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually."

Now we understand the concept of self-care, how do we begin to practice self-care as part of our daily routines? Perhaps you’ve dabbled in self-care before, a little baking, yoga, jade rollers and even walking, but what makes a good self-care routine? As self-care can take on several definitions, so can the ritual of self-care. No two self-care routines look the same. The basis of all good self-care routines works to nourish the mind and body.

If there is one lesson we've learnt over the last two years, it's that it’s always a good time to practice a little self-care. We’ve narrowed down the basic building blocks for a healthy self-care routine. Remember self-care is what feels good to you, self-care doesn’t start nor end here.

Get Enough Sleep                                                                                                     There is no escaping it, sleep is imperative to healthy mental and physical well being. It’s all about sleep, bad sleep can affect so many areas of life, from anxiety to work performance. Researchers have found that regular sleep and wake times are as vital to brain health as the length of good quality sleep. Create a sleep schedule, maintain good sleep hygiene, and incorporate sleep supplements into a routine. Try our Dreem Distillery Night Drops, as part of your good night's sleep practice. Night Drops contain potent broad-spectrum CBD enhanced with our proprietary Super Terpene Blend for a powerful combination to increase its sleep-inducing properties. The formula works to bring about a soothed, relaxed and sleepy state within 30 minutes after consumption and delivers hours of uninterrupted sleep, leaving you to wake up with all the benefits of good night's sleep. At Dreem Distillery, we recognise the importance of sleep and have made it our mission to bring good sleep to everyone.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a powerful practice, which has been shown to support our physical and psychological well being, reduce anxiety and improve attention levels. Mindfulness can be practised in so many forms, including meditation or yoga, which have been reported to reduce stress hormone cortisol levels, helping us regulate our emotions and boost our immunity. Start small, from a 30 minute walk to using a mediating app in the mornings for 10 minutes. Studies have found that daily meditation practice can structurally change the human brain and help ease depression, physical pain and the kind of mind-wandering that leads to an endless stream of negative thoughts.

Be Consciously Grateful

Beginning each morning by writing down what you are grateful for, can work to set your day right. It can be small things, to really major things, but the act of noting down the things you are grateful for can help to change your mindset to become more positive. It’s a constant reminder that you are in a good place, and it can bring about an instant dose of happiness and joy.

Be Kind to Yourself

Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive or indulgent, it can be small, free and quick. Self-care shouldn’t be reserved for the bad days, it’s important to take the time every day to practice an act of self-care for yourself. Think about the practices that bring you joy, and incorporate some of these into your daily routine. It can be an indulging night of beauty self-care with facial massages to relaxing oil-infused baths, to visiting your favourite coffee shop. Whatever it is, prioritise it and take notice of the positive feelings it brings.

Nourish Yourself

Food plays a colossal part in our mental and physical well being. Take the time to incorporate healthy food options, to fuel and nourish your body. The brain is an energy-hungry organ. Despite comprising only 2% of the body’s weight, the brain gobbles up more than 20% of daily energy intake. Dr Swart talks about eating for your brain - including oily fish, nuts, seeds, berries, olive oil, and avocado in your diet can help promote brain performance, which ultimately results in overall healthy wellbeing.