7 Super Simple Self-Care Rituals to Try in September

As you move through different seasons of life, your self-care practices will naturally evolve. You may drop certain rituals and pick up other practices that feel more aligned with your needs.

When your self-care practices no longer nourish you or provide the benefits it once did, treat it as a sign to explore new activities and rituals.

We know it can be a little daunting to shy away from what's familiar. If you're feeling added resistance because you're unsure where to begin, here's some inspiration to get you started. Who knows, you might just stumble upon your new favourite self-care ritual.

Get grounded

Grounding (or Earthing) involves coming into direct contact with the earth's surface. Simply sit, stand, or walk barefoot on soil, grass, sand, or unsealed concrete to draw in the earth's energy.

There is a ton of research showcasing the impressive benefits the earth's electromagnetic surface can have on the human body. Reduced inflammation, reduced stress levels, improved circulation and improved sleep quality are just some of the reported benefits.

Science aside, there is something so liberating about walking barefoot on the grass and feeling the sand beneath your feet, don't you think?

Relax with a weighted eye pillow

Have you ever had a massage where they gently place a weighted eye pillow over your eyelids to conclude the session? It's a game changer.

It's a simple yet luxurious way to temporarily block out all visual stimulation and enter a more restful state. I like to do this after a long day in front of the screen, or if I'm feeling overstimulated.

Try alternate nostril breathing

This meditation technique can be particularly helpful when your mind is racing or you're feeling stressed. It's a simple way to quiet your mind and calm your nervous system.

Alternate nostril breathing involves inhaling and exhaling through one nostril at a time.

Begin by closing off your right nostril with your thumb. Inhale slowly through the left nostril. Release the right nostril and close off your left nostril using your ring finger. Exhale slowly through the right nostril. Then, inhale slowly through the right nostril. Release the left nostril and close off your right nostril again with your thumb. Exhale through your left nostril. Repeat for up to five minutes.

It sounds a little complicated at first, but this practice can help you turn inward and offer the perfect distraction for your brain. It gives your brain something else to focus on, so that you can detach from whatever is causing your mind to race.

Here's a quick demo on how to practise alternate nostril breathing.

Lie down with your legs up the wall

Another simple yet restorative pose to reverse the effects of sitting or standing all day. It's a chance for your body to fully surrender and rest, even if it's just for a few minutes. However, 10-15 minutes is recommended to truly reap the benefits.

All you have to do is find a wall, lie perpendicular with your butt up against the wall, extend your legs up at a 90 degree angle (or as close to it), open your arms out to the side, and relax.

Legs up the wall pose can help relieve lower back pain, improve circulation and ease any tension you might be experiencing in your body.

Wind down with Chamomile tea

What started off as a natural remedy for indigestion during pregnancy quickly turned into a nightly ritual.

There's nothing quite like a warm, soothing cup of caffeine-free tea to help you relax and unwind before bed.

More than that, the plant extract contains apigenin, a chemical compound that induces sleepiness, so if you're having trouble falling asleep, a cup of Chamomile could be the best thing you add to your bedtime routine.

Have a candle-lit shower

This is a relatively new bedtime ritual of ours, but I think it's here to stay!

As a new mum getting minimal sleep, I was desperate to improve the quality of the sleep I was getting.

We started turning off lights religiously and limiting screen time. That's what inspired the candle-lit shower.

Not only does it induce a more restful state, it adds a touch of luxury to my shower experience and creates the kind of vibe you'd expect at a spa retreat. So simple.

Get some Vitamin D

Vitamin D is as essential for our mental wellbeing as it is for our physical.

Not only does it contribute to bone health, strengthen the immune system, regulate insulin levels and improve heart health, Vitamin D plays an important role in regulating mood and reducing symptoms of depression.

While regular sun exposure is the best way to get Vitamin D, it's worth noting that it is only available during certain times of the year and certain times of the day. It also can't be absorbed through windows, so driving on a sunny day doesn't actually count!

So, how do you get the right amount of Vitamin D without burning?

Use the Dminder app to figure out exactly how much sun you need and the optimal time to get it. It's free and super user-friendly!

Which ones are you going to try this month? Drop us a line at hello@saintbelford.com.au if you stumble upon a new favourite ritual. We'd love to hear from you!