Red's project to bring Self-Care Saturday to the masses is around three months old, and in that time we've had perfect showers, foot soaks, exercises, walks and baking ideas. All with the aim of making yourself feel good, feel replenished, feel loved. Because you can't pour from an empty jug, and if you want to go about your life as a successful, strong achiever you need to think of ways to top up.
And so as this weekend is a Bank Holiday, with a whole extra day in which to self-care, I asked my colleagues at Red and on social media for some favourite rejuvenating tips, easy things to do that will make yourself feel amazing.
And when you feel amazing, you can take on the world. So take your pick from any of these, or add your own. Just make yourself feel good.
"Saying no if it's the best thing for me, even if it may upset someone"
- @msstraighty180, via Twitter
"Whenever I can, I go to my local café to read a book with nothing but a black Americano for company. I used to find solitude scary, but now it brings me so much joy. And sometimes I don’t even read at all, I just sit there watching people walk by, thinking about everything and nothing."
- Natasha Lunn, Red's Features Editor
"Making a simple prawn linguine, followed by a bath and a G&T – health and happiness restored!"
- Fran Cotton, Red's Senior Sub-Editor
"An hour alone with a good coffee and an even better book. Utter bliss."
- Roanna Price, Red's Social Media and Fashion Editor
"Being with loved ones, eating an amazing meal and buying a new lip gloss!"
- @lovelifeandfood, via Twitter
"Watching a film in the bath… yes steamy laptop… living life on the edge but so, so good."
- Lauren T Franks, Red's Style Editor
"Going for a walk. It clears my mind and helps me to see things differently."
- Robin Wilks, Red's Deputy Chief Sub-Editor
"Appreciate nature. It's humbling and helps get things in perspective."
Sara Hawthorn, via Facebook
"Washing my face, always. It’s calming and cooling if I feel tired or upset, and feels something like a fresh start and/or time out from whatever else is going on. It’s also a little bit ritualistic, and incorporates touch too – both highly restorative!"
- Alexandra Friend, Red's Acting Beauty Editor
"Spend some time by water – very calming"
- Sarah Ilston, Red's Fashion & Beauty Digital Writer
"Eating a pork pie is my ultimate naughty treat and sometimes when I’m feeling down, I’ll just think sod it, and have a pork pie"
- Fong Chau, Red's Digital Editor
"A lie-in. My husband and I take it in turns. It's the most significant self-care you can experience when you have small kids."
- Sarah Tomczak, Red's Deputy Editor
"Gin"
- @MairiBlack, via Twitter
