The term “Self Care” seems to be a hot topic in recent years, though not entirely new to me. It’s a concept that has been in my vocabulary for a while now. However it is only recently that I have truly made it a priority.
Four years ago the coronavirus turned our lives upside down. As a result, and upon reflection, I feel the year 2020 was a pivotal moment for us all. I believe it has transformed our outlooks on life and what we choose to priortise.
2020 also represented the year I went from being a mother and farmer’s wife to a small business owner. No one can ever prepare you for parenthood (or being a farmer’s wife for that matter!), but it was familiar to me and I was well within my comfort zone. As it turned out, no one can prepare you for the reality of running your own business either, especially during a global pandemic.
The weight of this newfound responsibility, combined with the roller coaster of emotions during those times, left me feeling depleted. I had forgotten the cardinal rule: “put your own oxygen mask on first…”.
I’m no stranger to the concept of self-care. Finding solace in nature, engaging in restorative activities like yoga and spending quality time with loved ones, all of these have been part of my daily routine for years. Indeed they are the reason why we created our glamping offering in the first instance.
As hindsight would have it though, in those early months, I had become so consumed by ensuring the success of Meadow Field Glamping and perfecting our guests’ experience that I neglected to make time for myself. Moreover, with lock down restrictions in place, many of my usual stress-relieving outlets were no longer accessible.
So, when our first glamping season came to a close at the end of October 2020, I made a promise to priortise self-care once more. The ongoing restrictions in 2021, didn’t hold me back either. With the boom of Zoom, I was able to sign up for weekly online yoga classes. And with one to one meetups permitted, I ensured I took the time to enjoy a walk and a good catch up with a friend.
Since then, I have continued with my yoga practices and regular outdoor walks and have even taught myself to crochet! Without hesitation I will say this routine has been hugely beneficial to my mind, body and soul. These moments of self-indulgence, whether it’s a fleeting five-minute tea break or a more lavish five-day getaway, help me maintain my equilibrium and feel more relaxed, content, grateful, and fulfilled.
Self-care isn’t confined solely to yoga and meditation but rather, it encompasses activities that bring relaxation and joy. If you’re seeking inspiration, here are a few pastimes that hit the mark for me:
- Escaping into a good book (or two) such as “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Amor Towles or “The Lost Words” by Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris.
- Indulging in a spot of home baking. Filling the house with delightful aromas, whether they be savory or sweet, is guaranteed to lift the spirits. (and a great way to unprocess your diet!)
- Getting crafty with crochet projects or building Lego kits. Not just for children!
- Exploring your local area on foot, urban or rural. Don’t forget to look up, next time you are in a town or city – the architecture can be stunning. And when out for a walk, look down and identify wild flowers or spy animal footprints in the mud.
- Put a date in the diary to catch up with a friend. I am sure it has been longer than you think since you last enjoyed their company.
In essence, self-care is about prioritising activities that nurture and rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. It’s about recognising the importance of investing in our own well-being amidst life’s demands and challenges.
Ready to step away from the stresses and strains of life for a few days and invest in your 2024 self care plans – whatever they may look like? Then Meadow Field Luxury Glamping is the place for you. With a 5 star, “just like a boutique hotel” offering, located in the heart of rural Warwickshire, it’s self catering under canvas experience simply could not be better. Visit our website here to find out more and make your reservation.
