These days we are busier than ever before and many of us are juggling families, work, recreational activities and volunteering on top of the everyday chores. This is a lot, even for the most organised person. Taking care of your own wellbeing is vital, even more so if you are a carer for others. You can’t be there for anyone if your own needs aren’t being met.
We’ve put together 10 self care ideas for those living in the Macedon Ranges and surrounds. Self care comes in many forms, depending on the individual. Indulge in some ‘me time’ so you can be at your best – self care is not selfish, it is necessary. (This advice is general, if you require professional help for your mental wellbeing, we suggest visiting your local GP).
Get out into nature: Whether you go barefoot in your backyard, visit your local park or botanical gardens or visit one of our beautiful fresh air fun destinations, look at the boulders and trees at places like Black Hill Reserve or Hanging Rock, listen to the sound of running water a the Metcalfe Cascades or Trentham Falls, or smell the crisp mountain air at Mount Macedon. Experiencing all your senses in nature can be wonderfully calming.
Cold water swimming: If you are brave enough, cold water swimming has been said to be immune boosting, improve circulation and reduce inflammation. I know some folk head to ‘The Res’ in Macedon to do this as a group. A cold shower at home could also do the trick!
Go for a walk: We are blessed with many amazing walking tracks in the Ranges whether you go for a bushwalk or a stroll through one of the town’s botanical gardens, but even a walk around your block will do if you are pressed for time. We know moving is beneficial for us not just physically but mentally. You might want to walk alone or be in the mood to chat with a friend as you walk.
Take a relaxing class: Some gentle stretching or movement can be just the thing to calm your nervous system. We love Yogaflow with Jo in Macedon and on Zoom, and the various classes at Bodyfit by Holly May in Gisborne.
Exercise: Get your heart pumping with a dance, run, bike ride, golf, gym workout or by joining a local sporting team. We think Gisborne Dance Academy, Ranges Personal Training, Macedon Ranges Aqua Aerobics, Gisborne Golf Club (the course is still open!) and Spark Tennis are ace if you are looking to support a local business.
Have a massage, facial or infrared sauna: Give yourself an at-home treatment or you could head to: Gisborne Health Essentials for a facial or massage; or visit the spa-like experience of Ritual Sauna in Gisborne.
Book an appointment to empower yourself: Are you a stressed out mum looking for help to get organised with simple systems? Stress Free Super Mum can help! Navigating your 40s or 50s? Robyn from Midlife Rebel empowers midlife women to reclaim their lives. Or if it’s your vibe, you could chat to Chantal, a Spiritual Energy Healer and Intuitive from the Spiritual Closet. Thinking of a career change? Get in touch with Kat from Macedon Ranges Writers and boost your confidence with a resume revamp and kick-butt cover letter.
Declutter or throw things out: While decluttering can be an arduous task at times, it can also clear your mind knowing you have given or thrown out things which you no longer want or need. If organising is not your thing, you could enlist The Lifestyle Managers to give you a hand.
Chat to a friend: We know there are so many beautiful places to catch up for a coffee or a meal in the Macedon Ranges. Whether its 3 Little Pigs, where the kids can play, or a beautiful local winery or restaurant, a cuppa can be just what the doctor ordered.
Treat yourself! Get some photos taken of yourself and the family (If you’re after brilliant photographers we recommend, Wild Little Swallows Photography, Maple Gallery Photography, Aurora Joy Photography and Leigh Ball Photography). Frame those photos you’ve been meaning to get done at Maddison’s in Gisborne. Get that special wall decal from Laser Blanks or gorgeous hall table from Oakfield Designs. Treat yourself to some new clothes or lingerie and support locals Sarah Phegan or Nat Barbour at the same time.
While ‘self care’ can be broad, we think we have covered the gamut and given you lots of options to think about. Your next task is to schedule it in your diary. Don’t forget to do it – you are important!
(Note: all the underlined businesses are in our Shop Local Initiative and you receive a special disconut or deal when you purchase their product or service and show your Macedon Ranges Mumma keyring. Buy a keyring online here or at Maddison’s in Gisborne or Laser Blanks in Romsey).
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