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Take a breather
We often talk about self-care and the importance of making time for ourselves, but what does that actually mean during a pandemic when there is literally no time for anything? All over the country, busy parents are scrambling — many are working from home, helping their kids with remote learning, and trying to keep up a good front while the world seems to be crumbling around us.
With this situation unlikely to change any time soon, we have to find ways to address parental burnout and keep moving forward through this tumultuous time. We all know it is the small things that will get us through, like practicing gratitude, getting outside and chatting with friends. In addition, small changes to your environment can really boost your mood as well. A friend of mine recently got a new mattress and she said it was life-changing!
So with a much-needed mood boost in mind, I took to the internet to find a few fun, frivolous and comforting things that could bring some sunshine into your life (or your partner’s life). Click the arrows above the image to find some inexpensive and semi-therapeutic products that will hopefully bring some cheer.
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Make every day smell better
Spa time!
Bath bombs are great, but not many of us have the time for a long soak these days. Try one of these uplifting shower steamers instead and make your shower feel like a trip to the spa.
Turn your home into a fragrant sanctuary
Aromatherapy can help lift your spirits and make your house smell good at the same time! I call that a win. This ultrasonic diffuser is an Amazon bestseller and has two mist settings to choose from. Just add your oil and enjoy the misty goodness.
Take a breather
Feeling bleary-eyed from all the screens and endless Zoom calls? This lavender aromatherapy mask will encourage you to take a few minutes for some relaxing shut-eye. Pop it in the freezer overnight for an extra cooling sensation.
Make every day feel a little cozier
Slip into some comfy slippers
Cozy feet are happy feet! These plush moccasins from L.L.Bean are a favorite with New York Times editors and are the perfect slipper for lounging about the house.
Don an amazing robe
Feel like a majestic bear in this impressive faux fur robe from Alexander Del Rossa. Bonus feature: It’s got ears, so the kids will get a kick out of it every time you put up the hood! According to one Amazon purchaser, “it has the warmth of a big fleece robe with the feel of some regal mofo from Winterfell.” Now I bet you want it even more!
Enjoy a silky smooth sleep
Falling into a bed after a long day is always restorative but you can take that relaxation up a notch with these blissfully smooth silk pillowcases. Not only are these pillowcases recommended for dry hair, but they can keep your complexion looking good. So, if you want to sleep like a baby and wake up with baby-soft skin, these pillowcases might be for you.
Make every day seem a little brighter
Brighten up your space
We all need a vacation, and the evenings are getting darker and the mornings are just plain gloomy. Add some instant light to your life with this Happy Light. This compact light therapy lamp is perfect for a subtle pick-me-up as you go about your day. Set it beside your desk or your bed and bask in 10,000 lux of bright light and pretend you’re at the beach.
Upgrade you reading light
Reading a good old-fashioned book is soothing for the soul. It takes you away from the news and helps immerse you in a different world — far from the pandemic and current political tensions. Reading late at night can be hard on your eyes though. Make things easier for yourself with this nifty reading light which has three color temperature modes and three brightness levels so you can choose one depending on your mood.
Relieve any tension
While we’re at it, holding a book can also be a strain on your arms and shoulders but this simple but genius book seat will allow you to lie back in bed or relax in the bath and read your book without causing any extra stress to your body. Sign me up!
Keep busy with happy distractions
Get coloring
Adult coloring books started to become popular around 2016 and are associated with mindfulness. Our need for restful activities has only increased since then, so why not jump on the bandwagon and get coloring? You could try this coloring book featuring some fun swear words. Or you could try a more artistic and classic version from Johanna Basford.
Indulge with a hot cocoa bomb
Hot cocoa is always a comforting beverage in the winter, but these hot cocoa bombs from Costco take it to a whole new level. Simply pop one in your favorite cup, add some hot milk, and watch all that chocolate slowly melt.
Relieve boredom with board games
Nothing gets the family together like a good old-fashioned board game and some healthy family competition. If you’re looking for new games to get your through the winter, check out this awesome list of tried-and-true favorites.
