*crawls out of writing cave* Oh, finally, sunlight. I feel like I’ve been so busy with my novels lately, I’ll probably burst into dust as soon as I step outside. Finally, The Exciting Life of a Minor Character is ready, and I can take a break.

Seeing as how I’ve been so busy, I have to remind myself to take care of myself. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in writing or edits and mess up my normal routine, especially now. So, this is a happy post about self-care for writers.

I feel like self-care for us is even more important because the outside world sometimes doesn’t see writing as work. Of course, we also love doing it, it’s our passion. We wouldn’t do it otherwise, but that doesn’t mean we don’t work hard.

1. Pampering time:  On holidays, my boyfriend and I sometimes put on those facial masks and just relax. I don’t know what it is about them, but they just make me feel like I’m spoiling myself. There are some lovely facial masks out there that smell nice and are good for your skin. It’s also funny to take selfies while you have them on.
2. Move it: I’m not necessarily talking about working up a sweat, though that is also good for you. I just mean it’s good to get out of your chair and do something physical. I love yoga and the way my body feels afterwards, but even light stretching is fine. Or taking a nice walk. As long as I tell myself it’s self-care and not exercise, I can drum up the motivation. (I really have been terrible with motivation and exercise lately.)
3. Laughter: Nothing is as relaxing as laughing. It’s nice to get cosy in your pyjamas, and with a blanket and snacks, and watch a funny film or series. The sillier the better. I love silly films like The Pink Panther or Johnny English, for instance.
4. Massages: This is also a nice bonding moment. If you have tension in your shoulders or if you simply want a nice massage, why not ask your significant other to give you one? There are plenty of YouTube how-to videos in case you don’t know what to do. Besides, now is as good a time as any to learn something new.
5. Reading: No matter how much I’ve been writing/editing/sacrificing paperclips to the Writing Gods, I am always ready to dive into a good book. Especially when I can devote a whole day to it. Usually, this is on a Sunday, and I get a cup of tea and some snacks, then go back upstairs and settle into my comfortable bed and read ALL DAY. It’s lovely. (And you’re right, I don’t have kids.)
6. Hobby: Maybe you already have a hobby that is relaxing, such as knitting or napping. If not, you can always start a new one. I always find drawing very relaxing because my focus is 100% on the drawing and nothing else. But origami also seems like fun or learning card tricks. You might find something special if you try something new.

Okay, I think that’s enough for one blog post. I’ll save the rest of my enthusiasm for future blog posts. If you have anything to add to my list, do share!