We all need some TLC, tender loving care, every once in awhile. Sometimes we have to make the time to create that for ourselves. It’s called self-care and it’s so important.

We can’t take care of others, or give to others, if our own bucket is empty. We need to make sure our bucket is filled up and overflowing so we can give generously of our time, talent and love.

When you are feeling drained, tired, overwhelmed, I can bet, that you are running on an empty bucket. It happens so easily. Especially those who love to help others, or who are caregivers. So, what can one do to refill that bucket so that it’s full and overflowing again?

Make yourself a priority!

Schedule time for yourself during the day. Make a date with yourself. Here are a few more suggestions that are sure to get you refilled and happy again:

1. Set aside time to exercise.

Loving your body, taking care of your health is a gift to yourself and to your loved ones!

2. Broaden your approach.

Mind, body and spirit health is ever so important. I feel a holistic approach to your well-being is vitally important. I love to practice yoga as often as possible and meditate daily. Yoga is great for stress levels and all other kinds of wonderful health issues! Meditation is also great for stress management. A meditation practice will allow you to get better at calming your mind, thoughts, and emotions.

3. Take a long hot, bath.

Add some calming essential oils to really pamper yourself. Depending on what you are dealing with at the moment, choose an essential oil that serves that purpose. Do you need to relax, de-stress, relieve an aching body, etc?

Bath Recipe:
- Run hot water
- Add epsom salts (1/2 cup)
- Add 3-5 drops of an essential oil of your choice (Lavender or Roman Chamomile is a great choice for relaxation)

4. Enjoy a mini foot soak.

It will not only help relax you, but can provide a gentle detox!

Foot Soak Recipe:
- Hot water in a small container that will feet both feet comfortably.
- Add epsom salt
- Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil

Your feet not only contain the largest pores on your body, they allow anything placed on them to be easily soaked up and into your bloodstream. They also contain reflex points that allow whatever is soaked up to be dispersed throughout your entire body. Essential oils, in particular, will get into the blood stream within 30 seconds of application.

In addition, water will open your pores and allow for quicker absorption.

5. Create a spa-licious body scrub.

Really pamper yourself with this little recipe!

Body Scrub Recipe:

- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract *optional
- 5 drops essential oil of your choice (suggestion Lavender or Orange)

I would love to hear other ways you pamper yourself!

If you are looking for any of these oils, please visit my shop or follow me on www.essentiallyapril.com.