Things I Am Getting Back To Doing

I have said this before but somewhere along the stress of my mid-twenties, I forgot to keep up all the amazing habits I had picked up in my teenage and early twenties. In my mid-twenties, I gained weight, I stopped applying makeup everyday, stopped caring about my diet, and sometimes, didn't even dress up in a really intentional way.

This resulted in me feeling uncomfortable in my body and in my mind. I did not feel like myself and was quick to anger and overwhelm. That was not fun. So, I decided to go back and do all the things that make me feel more me.

These things may seem vain/vapid/shallow. I don't care. They work. Try them if you are also stuck in a rut.

• Being intentional around food. Eating less. Human bodies are not designed to be constantly grazing and eating foods that are highly processed and high in calories. Eating simple, whole, and less.

• Hydrating more. Choosing water whenever possible. Having a glass of water when I am hungry helps in being patient till it's time to eat again. I prefer room temperature or warm water over cold but I also love some sparkling water. Whenever I want the bubbles but zero calories/sweeteners, I choose a Perrier.

• Applying a little bit of makeup, every single day. I apply mascara and lipstick without fail, everyday. The goal though is to apply eyeliner, mascara, blush, and lipstick. When I have abundant time, I will add in a bit of foundation too. That day, I look and feel like a million bucks. Perfume is also non-negotiable.

• Being mindful about whether my outfit for that day is stylish, matches the accessories, and is comfortable. Changing the jewellery, bags, shoes, scarves etc. when it is warranted. Using all my nice accessories and clothes because they are not fulfilling their destiny by sitting in the closet unused.

• Skincare twice a day. Post shower skincare has now become non-negotiable again. Cleanser, toner/essence, serum, and moisturiser steps are back, baby! Face skincare regime is followed by full body moisturising and then maybe even a little solid perfume.

• Brushing my hair, twice a day. I had gotten to a place where sometimes I would not brush my hair for two days straight. I don't think people noticed (goodness, I hope not) but it still feels good to brush the knots in the hair out every single morning and night.

• Supplements without fail. Based on what my body needs, I have been on a solid supplements routine for about a year. I get mine from iHerb and they are so good. (About a week ago, I decided that I should take them in the morning or in the afternoon rather than at night like I did to avoid acid reflux.)

• Ending the day by turning the Downtime on my phone on, putting the work phone outside the bedroom, and reading on my Kindle. Downtime starts at 10 PM and ends at 7 AM the next day. The only apps I can use till then are my messaging and calling apps to get in touch with family. Reading a cozy book before sleep is such a blissful, low commitment activity. I love that sometimes I fall asleep while I am reading.

While these are very normal things for most people, I had let these very crucial, very me habits go. I am glad that they are back and here to stay this time.