Picture this: It’s another chaotic day. Between juggling work deadlines, family responsibilities, and the never-ending list of “to-dos,” self-care somehow lands at the very bottom of your priority list (again). Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
But here’s the real talk. Self-care isn’t about spa days and bubble baths (though those are fabulous too). It’s about creating simple, sustainable practices that fit into your life—not a version of life where you magically have three extra hours a day.
If you’re ready to turn self-care into a guilt-free, non-negotiable part of your routine, keep reading. I’ve rounded up five practical self-care practices that not only stick but also make you feel like your absolute best self—even on your busiest days.
Why Self-Care Needs to Be Non-Negotiable
Before we get into the practices, let’s address the elephant in the room. The term "self-care" often feels indulgent or like a luxury for when you have “extra time.” (Spoiler alert: That time doesn’t exist.) But here’s the truth. When you take care of yourself, you show up better for EVERYTHING else. It isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Think of self-care as charging your internal battery so you have the energy to power through life’s demands without running on fumes.
Okay, pep talk over. Time for actionable steps.
1. Morning Rituals That Take 5 Minutes or Less
You don’t need to wake up at 5 a.m. to have a life-changing morning ritual. (Bless those who do, but for the rest of us nighttime scrollers, this one’s for you.)
Start your day with one small act that sets the tone.
- Gratitude Joyride: Write down one thing you’re thankful for—even if it’s just your coffee.
- Body Reset: A quick stretch, three deep breaths, or a glass of water can work wonders.
- Affirmation Pep Talk: Remind yourself, “I’ve got this!” because you DO.
Tiny rituals have a domino effect. They’re like a subtle nod to yourself saying, “I care about you,” and they often lead to making better choices throughout the day.
2. Move in Ways That Feel Good, Not Punishing
Exercise isn’t just about looking good in your leggings (though, hey, bonus). It’s about connecting with your body and giving it the love it deserves. But here’s the secret sauce to making movement stick: Do what feels GOOD.
- Hate running? Don’t run.
- Love dancing in your kitchen? Blast your favorite playlist and go wild.
- Feel stiff after sitting all day? Try yoga or take a 10-minute walk.
The goal isn’t a grueling workout; it’s about finding ways to move that make you smile. Your body isn’t the enemy, and moving it should feel like an act of joy—not punishment.
3. Nourish Yourself Without the Diet Drama
Food is fuel, friend. But if diets have burned you out in the past (hello, constant guilt trips and rebound eating), then it’s time for a reset.
Revamp how you think about “healthy eating” with balance, not perfection.
- Prep but Keep It Simple: Wash and chop some veggies to have them ready for snacking or quick meals, but skip the Pinterest-worthy meal prep drama.
- Mindful Choices: If you’re grabbing takeout, can you add a veggie or swap soda for water (or maybe even a green tea)? Small swaps add up.
- Soul Food: Leave room for the chocolate or chips you genuinely love. All foods can fit without the side of shame.
And if nourishing your body feels overwhelming, start small. One better meal today is a win.
4. Create Micro Boundaries and Say No
Raise your hand if you’re a bit of a “yes” person (I see you, overachievers). Here’s a mantra for you to adopt ASAP: Every “yes” to someone else is a “no” to something for yourself.
Practice setting boundaries like a pro with these tips:
- Use Polite No’s: Saying, “Thanks for thinking of me, but I can't this time,” is perfectly fine.
- Schedule Your Own Time: Block your calendar for YOU—even if you spend it lying on the couch watching Netflix.
- Put Down Your Phone: Unplugging from endless notifications = top-tier energy saver.
Boundaries are like invisible shields that protect your time, energy, and sanity. Start with small ones, and watch your life transform.
5. Find Your Community
Here’s the deal. Life is far less overwhelming when you have people around who “get it.” Whether it’s friends who lift you up, an online group of like-minded souls, or even a random coffee shop crew, having a community makes self-care feel less lonely.
Ideas to Build Your Circle:
- Join local hobby groups or fitness classes (spin class buddy, anyone?).
- Look for online communities that align with your values and interests.
- Text a friend out of the blue and make plans.
People who support your well-being make everything easier. Don’t underestimate the power of connection.
Make These Practices Yours
The beauty of self-care is that it’s deeply personal. What works for me might not work for you, and that’s okay. The trick isn’t perfection; it’s progress. Choose one of these five practices, start small, and see how it feels. Self-care is a practice, not a final destination.
And when life inevitably gets busy (because it will), remember this. You’re worth the effort. The world needs your best self—not your burnout self. Take the nap, eat the chocolate, and live boldly on your terms.
Want to explore more ways to thrive? Subscribe to my newsletter, The Life You Deserve, for more practical tips and affirming advice. Together, we’ve got this.
xoxo Angela
Hey love,
Can we take a moment to chat about something super important? YOU. Yep, you. When’s the last time you did something kind for yourself? Not for your family, not for work, not for anyone else—but just for you. If you can’t remember, don’t worry. You’re not alone.
Life gets busy. We pour ourselves into everyone and everything, and somehow, we forget to fill ourselves back up. But here’s the thing about self-kindness—it doesn’t need to be grand or complicated. Sometimes the smallest, simplest acts can carry the biggest impact. They remind us that we matter, too.
Here are five small yet mighty ways you can start showing yourself some love today.
1. How You Speak to Yourself Matters
Would you tell your best friend she’s not good enough? Exactly. But how often do we say those cruel things to ourselves? It’s time to flip the script, my friend. Start practicing affirmations. Stand in front of the mirror, look yourself in the eyes, and say something supportive.
Try this on for size: “I am enough, exactly as I am today.”
It might feel awkward at first (trust me, I’ve been there!), but stick with it. Words hold power, and when you speak love over yourself, you begin to believe it.
2. Fuel Your Body with Love
What you eat matters. And no, I’m not here to tell you to give up chocolate forever (because, girl, that’s not living). But I am telling you that what you choose to fuel your body with affects your energy, mood, and overall health.
Think of nourishing your body as an ultimate act of love. Choose foods that energize you and make you feel amazing. Whole, fresh, and vibrant foods do more than just feed your hunger; they fuel your life. And here’s the truth, friend: you’re worth the effort. Your entire being will thank you.
3. Move Your Body in a Way That Feels Good
Movement isn’t about punishment or chasing a perfect body. It’s about celebrating what your body can do. Do you love lifting weights and feeling strong? Great! Maybe yoga brings you peace or dancing makes you come alive? Amazing! Even a simple walk outside can breathe life into your day.
The key is finding what lights you up and doing that. Your body is your home, so make it a joyful place to live.
4. Step Outside and Breathe
This one’s so simple, but so underrated. Just step outside, close your eyes, and take a big, deep, fresh breath. Feel the sun (or drizzle, we’ll take what we can get), listen to the birds, and just be.
Fresh air is like a reset button for your mind and body. Even just a few minutes outside can change your energy, lighten your mood, and make you feel alive again. Try it and thank me later.
5. Make Time for You (Yes, YOU!)
This might be the hardest one, especially if you’re used to putting everyone else first. But hear me out. You cannot give your best to others if you’re running on empty. Take five minutes a day just for you.
Check in with yourself. How are you feeling? What do you need? Journal it out, meditate, pray, or just sit quietly with a cup of tea. Whatever helps you reconnect with yourself, do that. Start small if you have to, but don’t skip this one. You deserve this time.
Start Your Journey to Wellness
These acts may seem small, but together, they create big, beautiful changes. When you treat yourself with kindness, you start showing up for life in a whole new way. And if you’re ready to take things to the next level, I’d love to invite you to join my Wellness Fusion Course.
This course is all about helping you unlock YOUR path to wellness. You’ll explore nutrition for mind-body balance, master meal planning, and discover ways to fuel not just your body but your life. It’s foundational, flexible, and designed to help you create a healthier, more balanced, and joyful life.
Everything you need is already within you, my friend. Sometimes it just takes a little guidance to bring it out. You’re more than capable of rewriting your story and stepping into the life you deserve.
💕 Are you ready? Join the Wellness Fusion Course today and get started on this beautiful, empowering path. Here’s to YOU and all the small steps that make a big difference. You’ve got this!
With so much love and cheering you on,
Angela
Hey there friend,
Have you ever tried to clean out a closet and found yourself sitting in the middle of the mess, surrounded by piles of forgotten items, wondering how it got this bad? That’s what growth feels like sometimes. It’s sitting in the chaos, knee-deep in the messy middle, questioning how you’ll get through it—but knowing you can’t stop now.
Growth isn’t clean or polished. It’s not this perfectly linear process where you check off a neat to-do list. Oh no, sister. Growth is glorious chaos. It’s painful, humbling, messy, and uncomfortable. I know because I’ve lived it.
I’ve walked through fire more times than I care to count and come out the other side stronger, wiser, and more me. The pain, the lessons, the heartbreak? They didn’t break me. They built me. And as much as it hurt, I can honestly say I am thankful for every single step of my messy, winding path.
Learning to Be Thankful for the Mess
Here’s the thing I’ve learned about messy growth. It doesn’t just happen to us. It shapes us. Every hard moment I’ve endured, every tear-stained night, every time I doubted my strength or questioned why God would put me in that situation—it was all part of something bigger.
I often say that I’m honored God trusted me to go through these things. He didn’t give me these battles because He wanted to hurt me; He gave them to me because He knew I’d grow through them. He saw something in me I didn’t yet see in myself.
Without those struggles, I wouldn’t be here now. I wouldn’t be the woman I am today. I wouldn’t have the compassion, the depth, or the ability to connect with other women who feel like the mess of their lives is too much to untangle. Every trial has prepared me to help others walk this same road.
And you know what? Looking back, I can see how every single painful moment led me closer to the life I’m meant to live, closer to the person I’m meant to be. If I hadn’t gone through those things, I wouldn’t be here, writing this for you, reminding you that your messy growth is beautiful too.
The Mess Is What Makes You
When you’re in the middle of it, messy growth doesn’t feel beautiful. It feels overwhelming. It feels heavy. It feels like you’ll never get it together. But listen to me closely, friend. The beauty of messy growth isn’t in its neatness (because ha, there’s no such thing). The beauty comes from what it reveals about you.
Messy growth shows you how strong you are. It forces you to reckon with yourself—to sit in your pain, your beliefs, your patterns, and decide what stays and what needs to go. It’s where your foundation gets rebuilt.
Think of it like planting a garden. The process is messy; you’re digging through dirt, breaking apart roots, maybe finding a few weeds you didn’t realize were choking your soil. But when it’s all said and done, you’ve created space for something beautiful to grow.
That space? That’s your life. Every messy struggle, every hard season, every pivot and stumble is preparing the soil for your next chapter.
You Are Not Alone in This
If you’re feeling lost in your own mess right now, I want you to know two things. First, you are not alone. Not even close. Second, the mess does not define you. It’s not who you are, and it’s not your future.
I’ve been where you are. I’ve felt stuck and broken and unsure of how to move forward. I’ve looked in the mirror and wondered who I even was anymore. But I promise you, this season of growth—even with all its pain and uncertainty—is shaping you.
One day, you’ll look back on this messy, wild, complicated chapter and realize that it wasn’t breaking you after all. It was making you. It was strengthening your voice, sharpening your boundaries, and grounding you in who you really are.
A Beautiful, Messy Reminder
God doesn’t waste anything. Not your tears, not your struggles, not your mess. He’s weaving all of it into a bigger, more beautiful story than you could ever imagine.
It’s okay if it feels hard right now. It’s okay to take it one moment at a time. But don’t you dare give up. You are creating the life you were made for, and the mess is proof that you’re growing. There’s no need to rush or force neatness on this process.
You are in the middle of something beautiful. I see it, and I hope, at least for today, you can see a glimpse of it too.
You’ve got this, friend. And if you’re sitting in the middle of your mess, wondering how to move forward, know that I’m here for you. Reach out if you want to share your story—I’d be honored to hear it.
With love and belief in you,
Angela
P.S. It’s never too late to set the tone for your year! Grab my free Word of the Year Workbook and choose a word that will guide and empower you through this season of your life. The best time to start is right now!
Hey there Amazing One,
Ever had one of those days where your thoughts feel like they’re bouncing around, making your chest tight and your brain foggy? Stress has a sneaky way of piling up, doesn’t it? Something I’ve found incredibly helpful during those moments is journaling.
Don’t worry. This isn’t about writing a novel. It’s about taking just a few moments to pause, connect with yourself, and untangle the knot of emotions. Journaling is less about “doing it right” and more about creating space for your thoughts to breathe.
If that sounds like something you could use, keep reading. I’ve put together 10 simple, soul-soothing journaling prompts designed to help you find clarity, release stress, and feel more connected to your emotions.
Why Journaling Works
Journaling isn’t just a trendy self-care practice. It’s a proven way to clear mental clutter, process emotions, and gain perspective. Think of it like having a heart-to-heart with yourself. No judgment, no filters, just honesty.
For me, my journal has been a lifeline in tough moments and a celebration space during the good ones. I’ve learned so much about myself by just putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). And the best part? You don’t need anything fancy. Just a notebook, your favorite pen, and some quiet time are all it takes.
10 Journaling Prompts to Get Started
If you’re not sure where to begin, these prompts can create a gentle entry point for your thoughts. Feel free to adjust them to what feels right for you.
- What’s one thing weighing on my mind right now?
Write it down, no matter how big or small. Sometimes just naming what’s bothering you can make it feel more manageable. - What made me smile today?
Reflect on the small joys. Did someone send you a kind text? Did you see a beautiful sunset? These moments, when acknowledged, can shift everything. - What’s one thing I can control in this moment?
Stress often thrives on feeling out of control. Focusing on what you can change helps ground you. - How do I feel physically right now?
Get curious about how your body feels. Maybe you’re tight in your shoulders or heavy in your chest. This awareness helps you connect with your physical and emotional state. - What’s one thing I’m grateful for today?
Gratitude journaling is powerful. Even on the hardest days, there’s something good worth noting. - What’s been draining my energy lately?
Explore what’s been weighing you down. Sometimes writing it out can help you identify boundaries you need to set. - What do I need most right now?
Maybe it’s rest, connection, or alone time. Be honest with yourself about what you truly need. - What’s one thing I’m proud of myself for?
Celebrate your victories, no matter how small. Did you tackle a challenging task? Show up for a friend? Keep showing up for yourself? - If stress weren’t holding me back, what would I do?
This prompt can uncover hidden desires or goals that feel buried under your stress. - What’s one piece of encouragement I wish someone would say to me?
Here’s the twist: write it to yourself. Become your own biggest cheerleader.
How to Make Journaling a Habit
The beauty of journaling is that it’s flexible. Try setting aside just five minutes a day or even a few times a week. Mornings can help you set intentions, while evenings are perfect for reflecting on the day. And it’s okay if you skip a day! This isn’t about perfection but about creating a practice that supports your well-being.
Share Your Journey with Me
Journaling has been such a meaningful practice in my life, and I’d love to hear about how it resonates with you.
Which of these prompts speaks to you the most? Have you tried journaling before, or are you just starting out? I’d love to hear about your experience, insights, or even the challenges you’re facing.
Drop a comment below and share your thoughts! Or, if you’d prefer something a bit more personal, feel free to email me at hello@angelacarroll.com. Building a supportive and encouraging community is so important, and I’d be honored to connect with you on your journaling journey.
Here’s to finding clarity, one page at a time. You’ve got this!
With so much warmth,
Angela
Angela
Hey friend,
Have you ever noticed how the food you eat can totally change the way you feel? Maybe it’s a sluggish day after indulging in too many fried foods, or perhaps it’s that unexpected wave of calm after sipping on a cup of herbal tea. Well, it’s not your imagination. What we put in our bodies has a direct line to how our minds and emotions show up each day.
For a long time, I didn’t really make this connection. I used to think of food as just, well, food. Something to curb hunger, maybe something to enjoy socially, but not something that could actually impact my mood in meaningful ways. But, oh, was I wrong. Once I understood the connection between what I ate and how I felt, my entire perspective on nutrition changed.
If you’re hearing this and feeling a little skeptical, I get it—I was too. But stick with me, because this just might blow your mind. And by the end, you’ll have some practical tips for what to eat instead to help lift your spirits and keep you grounded.
The Food-Mood Connection
Here’s the thing about our bodies and minds: they’re deeply connected, way more than we realize. One of the reasons this happens is because of something called the gut-brain connection. Your gut isn’t just a digestion machine; it’s actually full of neurons (yes, brain-like cells!) that communicate with your brain all day long.
Ever heard of the phrase “trust your gut”? That’s kind of what’s happening here on a biological level. The health of your gut can influence everything from your stress levels to your ability to focus to how happy you feel. And food plays a massive role in all of this.
But not all food works for you. Some of it, especially highly processed junk foods, can mess with your gut health and cause major mood swings. Think about it. Have you ever felt an instant sugar rush after a donut only to crash a couple of hours later? That’s not helping anyone’s emotional well-being, right?
The good news? You don’t have to stay stuck in this cycle. The key is knowing what foods to swap out and what to eat instead.
Foods That Might Be Bringing You Down
Here are a few sneaky culprits that could be wreaking havoc on your mood:
- Sugary foods and drinks. I know, dessert is tempting (and you don’t have to cut it out entirely), but too much sugar creates wild spikes and crashes in your blood sugar, which can leave you feeling tired, irritable, and even anxious.
- Highly processed snacks. Chips, cookies, and packaged “quick fixes” are loaded with empty calories, unhealthy fats, and additives that do no favors for your brain or body.
- Refined carbs. Think white bread, pastries, or that giant plate of pasta. These tend to raise your blood sugar fast and then drop it just as quickly, leaving you feeling blah.
- Excessive caffeine. Believe me, I love my coffee. But too much of it can leave you jittery and interfere with sleep, which plays a huge role in mood stability.
So, What Should You Eat Instead?
Good news again, friend! Small changes can make a massive difference here, and it isn’t about being perfect. It’s about giving your body (and your mind) the nutrients they need to thrive. Here are some truly feel-good foods to focus on:
- Leafy greens. Spinach, kale, and other greens are packed with folate, which studies have linked to more stable moods. Plus, they’re loaded with nutrients that help protect your brain.
- Omega-3 rich foods. Think salmon, walnuts, chia seeds, or flaxseeds. These help reduce inflammation and have been shown to boost mental health.
- Fermented foods. Yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut are gold for your gut. By supporting healthy gut bacteria, they can help stabilize your mood and even ease some anxiety.
- Whole grains. Brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat bread help keep your blood sugar steady, which also evens out your emotions.
- Dark chocolate. Yes, you read that right! A little bit of dark chocolate (I’m talking 70% cacao or higher) has been shown to reduce stress and boost your mood. Just keep an eye on portion size.
- Berries. These little powerhouses are loaded with antioxidants that can help fight stress and boost brain health. Plus, they’re naturally sweet, which makes them perfect when you have a sugar craving.
- Hydrating foods. Cucumbers, watermelon, and herbal teas all help your body stay hydrated, which is critical for focus and energy.
And you know what? This doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by adding just one or two of these to your meals this week. Pick something that feels easy for you and build from there.
It’s About Progress, Not Perfection
If this all feels new or even just a little tricky, don’t sweat it. I’ve been there. Like I’ve shared before, when life gets messy, food sometimes becomes the last thing I want to think about. But shifting my mindset to see it as an act of self-care, something that supports my mental and physical well-being, made a world of difference.
Remember this isn’t about cutting everything “bad” out of your life or being perfect. It’s about noticing how food makes you feel and making small, intentional choices that help you feel your best.
Want to Take It a Step Further?
If you’re ready to explore how your food choices could help transform your overall wellness, I’ve created a simple, insightful way to get started.
Take my free Dietary Assessment Quiz. It’s designed to help you discover the dietary approaches that best support your health and align with your unique lifestyle. Whether you want to refine your habits, manage health conditions naturally, or simply find balance in your daily choices, this quiz is the first step in empowering your wellness journey.
It’s not just a quiz; it’s a chance to uncover personal insights that could set you on the path to a vibrant, more balanced life. Why not take the first step today?
Here’s to your journey toward a brighter, healthier you!
Angela
