A Gentle Return to Myself
A few years ago, when I started this blog, my heart was so full. I wanted to share everything I had learned about caring for myself, finding calm, and creating small pockets of peace in a busy life. One of my favorite things back then was Self-Care Sunday. It was my special time to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with who I was underneath all the noise.
But life changed…kids grew, schedules got heavier, and everything felt more complicated. Little by little, I let go of that weekly ritual. I kept telling myself to “do more,” and somewhere along the way, I stopped giving myself space to rest.
Lately, as I move through perimenopause, family life, and all the emotions that come with this stage, I’ve realized how much I need those quiet moments again. Self-care isn’t extra….it’s essential. And this Sunday, I promised myself I would bring back Self-Care Sunday.
If you’ve ever struggled to make time for yourself, or if self-care feels like something that slips through your fingers, I want to share a few simple practices that helped me create a gentle, meaningful Sunday ritual. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about showing up for yourself with love.
1. Begin With Gratitude
I start my Sundays by noticing what I’m grateful for. Sometimes I write it down; sometimes I just sit with my matcha or herbal tea and let the thoughts come. It might be something big, like my family’s health, or something tiny, like a quiet house before everyone wakes up. This small practice sets a peaceful tone and reminds me that even on hard days, there is still goodness around me.
2. Nourish Your Body
When I was younger, I thought self-care meant treats or spa days. Now, it means caring for my body in a deeper way. On Sundays, I make myself a simple breakfast that feels extra nourishing… avocado toast on sourdough, baked protein oatmeal, or fresh fruit. I eat slowly, paying attention to how it makes me feel. It’s a small act of kindness toward myself.
3. Move Gently
Yoga was the beginning of my self-care journey, and it still brings me back home to myself. On Sundays, I choose slow, gentle movement…restorative yoga, stretching, or a peaceful walk outside. I don’t push; I listen. Some days I only need a few deep breaths. What matters is honoring what my body is asking for.
I know I’m not alone in finding it hard to put myself first. Life gets busy. We give and give until we’re empty. But Self-Care Sunday doesn’t have to be fancy or time-consuming. It’s simply a moment you claim for your mind, body, and spirit…whether that’s a warm bath, a chapter of a good book, a Netflix show, or a quiet nap.
This Sunday, I invite you to pause, take a deep breath, and reconnect with yourself. You don’t need a plan. You don’t need perfect conditions. Just show up. Do what feels right. You deserve that time. You deserve that love.
From my heart to yours, Stacey
