Hello everyone! Welcome back to my blog! For those who are familiar with my blog, you know I have a condition called Turner Syndrome. Turner syndrome is when a woman is born with one of her X chromosomes fully or partially missing. Only about 1 to 3 percent of pregnancies involving a baby with Turner syndrome make it to term. The other close to 99 percent usually end in miscarriage. Around 15 percent of all miscarriages were the result of Turner syndrome.
Turner syndrome can lead to a lot of complications for those babies who survive, and the complications can vary from person to person. I recently talked about my experience with Turner syndrome on a podcast called Butterfly Banter. Did you know that Turner syndrome is represented by the butterfly and those with Turner syndrome are called butterflies? That inspired the name for the podcast. It is hosted by fellow butterfly Jenna Haller. The podcast is dedicated to raising awareness on Turner syndrome through those of us with Turner syndrome telling our stories.
I admire Jenna’s advocacy, and I was proud to tell me story on Butterfly Banter. If you would like to listen in on my conversation with Jenna, you can click here. I hope you enjoy the discussion as much as I did! Be sure to give a listen to other episodes on Jenna’s podcast as well, and follow Butterfly Banter on Facebook!
Thankyou for visiting and your support! Until next time!
In today’s life, self-care is always the least priority on our list. We are so engaged with work, family, and social responsibilities that we forget to take care of ourselves. Self-care isn’t selfish, however; it is a need. Caring for oneself means greater productivity, emotional balance, and mental sharpness. So how do you put self-care into your day without making it a big deal? Let’s break it down into little, nourishing moments.
Tips To Follow To Do Self-Care During A Day
1. Begin with a Gentle Morning Routine
How you start your day has a significant impact on your mood, productivity, and stress levels. Instead of jumping out of bed and racing against the clock, give yourself a peaceful and thoughtful beginning. Wake up 15 minutes earlier than you normally would to make time for yourself. Stretch slowly to wake up your muscles, drink a cup of hot green tea lemonade, and resist the urge to mindlessly scroll through your phone. This moment belongs to you—you might journal, meditate, or just sit silently and establish your intentions. A peaceful morning sets the tone for a good day.
2. Feed Your Mind and Body Intentionally
Proper nutrition is essential to self-care. Begin the day with a well-balanced breakfast with fruits, whole grains, and protein. Avoid processed food and excess caffeine that creates energy crashes. Throughout the day, have plenty of water and listen to your body’s hunger cues. Eat slowly and enjoy your food without multitasking. Eating mindfully is not just about feeding your body but also respecting it. Turn every meal into a moment to feed yourself inside and out.
3. Take Micro-Mental Breaks
Your brain, like all your muscles, needs to rest to stay focused and productive. Non-stop work leads to mental exhaustion and burnout. Take mini-breaks every 1-2 hours. Go for a walk outside, close your eyes and breathe in deeply, or stretch yourself out. Even a brief 5-minute walk will wake up your brain. Such micro-breaks improve focus, imagination, and mood, thus boosting your productivity.
4. Boundaries While Working
Boundaries are an essential but often neglected act of self-preservation. Without boundaries, work encroaches on the rest of life and introduces chronic stress. Set defined work time and respect it. Practice saying no when your plate is full and refrain from checking work emailsoutside the designated time. Use tools like “Do Not Disturb” to minimize distractions while performing deep work. Setting those limits is the way your work won’t overwhelm your personal space and mental peace.
5. Remain Connected to Positivity
Humans are social beings, and emotional health is partially about meaningful connections. Call or text a friend or family member during the day with a brief message or call. Cultivate relationships with others who encourage you. Mind your digital diet—unfollow individuals that make you feel smaller and follow those that inspire you. Choose conversations that bring joy and avoid negativity, gossip, or comparison traps. When you establish good relationships, you establish a support system that nourishes your soul.
6. Establish a Bedtime Routine
Night routines help you to create a transition from the nuttiness of the day to a good night’s rest. Choose calming activities like reading, a relaxing bath, or listening to calming music. Avoid screens at least 30 minutes prior to going to bed in order to reduce exposure to blue light, which interferes with sleep. Practice gratitude by reflecting on the good things about your day. These actions inform your body and mind that it’s time to relax and restore. A peaceful bedtime routine improves quality sleep and leaves you refreshed when you wake up.
7. Get Quality Sleep
Sleep is underestimated in its power to influence our health. Not just how much, but how. Create a soothing sleeping space—a low light, cozy bed, and low room temperature. Employ natural therapies like lavender oil or a cup of chamomile tea. Sleep and wake up at the same hour every single day to preserve your circadian rhythm. Sleeping well improves memory, mood, immunity, and even judgment. You work when you sleep.
My Personal Diary Of Daily Routine.
Morning Routine – How I Kick Start My Day?
After waking up at around 7’O clock the first thing that I prefer to do is 10 minutes of simple exercise or stretching that helps me to feel energetic and fuel up my body, after that drinking upto a litre of water to hydrate my body, having some healthy breakfast around 8’O clock and then thinking about a list of things that I have to do during the day.
Mid-day Routine – while in office!
Reaching office and after setting down the things, as I get time during some working hours, I would like to eat some almonds and cashew nuts that I always carry with in my bag as it is known for high Vitamin – E, High fibre, Bone strength, etc. during the lunch time, a balanced meal is the thing that I prefer with some smoothies for weight loss and healthy living.
Evening Routine – taking a minimal break and slowing down.After working for whole day, I used to take a mild break around 5’O clock, to reset mental health as it is very important to release all stress and anxiety of work that it stored during the day. After that having a cup of green tea to detox or evening walk for 5 to 10 minutes is generally what I do to relax my mind.
Night routine – hitting gym and simple practices!
Hitting gym around 7’O clock is the most important thing of my daily routine, which I used to do daily after getting back to home from office. Taking some pre-workout, doing some hard-work and exercises are the things I used to follow. And afterwards having a simple and less cholesterol food at night which includes sprouts, cereals and pulses. Meditating for 5 to 10 minutes before sleep and then having a good night sleep!
Mental & Emotional Self-Care Tips
In addition to physical behaviour, your mental chatter is an important aspect of self-care. Treat yourself with compassion. Do not be overly critical of yourself, and be kind to yourself. Keep your goals realistic and be in touch with your achievements, however insignificant. Permit yourself to experience feelings without criticism—it’s acceptable to have bad days. If necessary, consult a professional. Therapy is a powerful act of self-care and an indication of strength rather than weakness.
Why Self-Care Isn’t Selfish
Others experience guilt if they place themselves first. Yet the truth is that self-care grants you the ability to bring your entire self to your relationships, career, and personal goals. If your cup is full, you can fill up others with gladness and vitality without resentment or exhaustion. Self-care daily builds resilience, improves anxiety management, and promotes more life satisfaction. Self-care reminds you that you deserve your own love, energy, and time.
FAQs on Daily Self-Care Habits
1. Must I take hours of my time to practice self-care?
Yes, self-care does not require taking hours of your time. Even 5-10 minute instances of mindfulness, hydration, stretching, or deep breathing throughout your day can be incredibly powerful. Length is not as important as consistency.
2. Is self-care only physical?
No, self-care is physical, emotional, mental, and even spiritual well-being. It includes behaviors like sleeping well, boundary-setting, being grateful, going to therapy, and healthy relationships.
3. What if I feel guilty taking time for myself
Guilt is normal but unwarranted. Self-grooming can be seen as upkeep. You can’t give what you don’t have. Grooming yourself allows you to give your best to other humans without being burned out.
4. How do I start a self-care routine if I’ve never done this before?
Start small. Take one or two self-care routines to begin with, such as increasing water intake or going to bed 30 minutes early. Gradually build upon it as the routines become a part of normal life.
5. Does technology facilitate or detract from self-care?
Both. Meditation, journaling, and tracking habits can be aided by apps. But excessive screen time or disturbing material on the net can drain your energy. Watch out for technology.
6. What are some free self-care things I can do every day?
Take a walk in nature
Do some deep breathing exercises
Create a gratitude list
Meditate or stretch
Leave your screens behind
Drink herbal tea slowly
7. How do I ensure consistency in my self-care practices?Set reminders, link self-care activities to existing habits (e.g., journaling after brushing teeth), or simply use a plain log. Most of all, be kind to yourself if you forget one day—just begin again.
8. Is it okay if my self-care is different from others’?
Absolutely. Self-care is very individualized. What relaxes or energizes one person might not have the same effect on another. Choose activities that actually feel caring to you.
9. What if I am not motivated about taking care of myself?
Start with small, pleasant things. Action tends to come before motivation. Also, recall the reasons why self-care matters—it’s an investment in your health, peace, and happiness.
10. Can therapy be included in daily self-care?
Yes. Therapy is a safe space to think, heal, and become. Even if it’s not daily, regular sessions can really assist with emotional health and are an incredibly empowering means of caring for oneself.
Final Thoughts
Self-care doesn’t require grand gestures or lots of time. It’s in the small, intentional choices you make each day to respect your body, mind, and spirit. By applying these self-care moments throughout your daily routine, you not only improve your well-being but also cultivate a life rooted in balance, purpose, and joy. Start today, start small, and stay consistent. Your future self will thank you.
I am Manoj Devnath, A passionate blogger with a love for mixing drinks—from mocktails and cocktails to mojitos and energy drinks. A devoted food and drink enthusiast, uncovering unique flavors and culinary recipes, sharing insights and inspiration for fellow drink lovers.
There was a time in my life when I thought I had to deal with everything alone. I believed asking for help was a sign of weakness. I smiled in front of everyone, said “I’m fine” when I wasn’t, and kept pushing through the days with a heavy heart and a tired mind.
But the truth is, mental illness doesn’t go away by pretending it doesn’t exist. Additionally, attempting to carry it all alone only makes the weight appear to be heavier.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Mental illness can make you feel isolated, like you’re the only one struggling while the world keeps spinning. But you’re not alone, even if it feels like it sometimes. Reaching out for help isn’t a sign of defeat, it’s a sign of courage. It indicates that you have a strong desire to heal yourself. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or anything in between, talking to someone, seeking support, and getting the help you need can be life-changing.
Why Asking for Help Matters
When you reach out, you open the door to understanding, support, and real healing. Mental illness is not a personal failure. It’s not your fault. When we hurt our minds, we ought to get help, just as we do when we break a bone. Here’s what asking for help can do:
Eliminate the silence in which mental illness thrives. When everything seems hazy, offer clarity. Connect yourself to people who understand and can guide you. Begin the journey to better mental health and inner peace.
Support Can Come in Many Forms
You don’t always have to speak to a therapist right away (though that’s a great option). Support can come from:
• A trusted friend or family member.
• An online or offline support group.
• Mental health hotlines or helplines.
• Professional counselors or psychologists
The first step is always the hardest, but once you take it, the road begins to clear bit by bit.
What Help Looked Like for Me
For me, help came in a message. I reached out to someone close and said, “I’m not okay.” That moment changed everything. I wasn’t judged. I was heard. That was the beginning of my healing. And from there, I slowly started to find strength again.
Sometimes, all it takes is a conversation. Therapy or medication are other options. But no matter what it looks like getting help works.
It’s Okay to Not Be Okay
Please know, if you are reading this and struggling in silence: You won’t be alone. You are not damaged. You are not weak for requiring assistance. Reaching out may feel scary, but it’s the first step toward light, peace, and healing. You deserve that.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please talk to someone. Help is always available. You are not a burden. You are loved. 💙
Meet the Author:
This beautiful piece was written by Laiba Noor. Laiba is a hardworking Content Creator, Social Media Manager and Influencer Marketer who lives in Pakistan. If you enjoyed this post and would like to work with Laiba, you can reach her on LinkedIn or Instagram.
Not all disabilities are visible. Not all pain wears a cast or walks with a cane. Some battles are fought behind smiles, quiet moments, and struggles that are not spoken about. These are what we call invisible disabilities, conditions that don’t have obvious physical signs but still significantly impact a person’s daily life.
I didn’t always understand what “invisible disability” meant. I used to think that disability came with a wheelchair, a walking aid, or some visible indication. However, life has a way of teaching you things that books or preconceived notions can’t. Living with “What Others Can’t See”.
Whether it’s chronic pain, mental illness, fibromyalgia, autism, anxiety, depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, or neurological disorders, these conditions are often misunderstood or even doubted. You look “fine.” You chuckle. You show up. So people think you’re okay.But deep inside, there’s a constant balancing act. You calculate every move: Can I do this today? Will this drain me? What if I can’t make it through?
I remember days when just getting out of bed felt like moving a mountain. Smiling felt like a lie. While I stood still and tried to catch my breath, the world moved quickly and loudly on. Yet, individuals would comment, “You don’t look sick.” Those words cut deeper than they knew.
The Weight of Invisibility
The hardest part of living with an invisible disability isn’t always the symptoms, it’s the invisibility itself.The doubt. The verdict. The subtle eye-rolls when you cancel plans again. The coworkers who whisper, “She’s just lazy.” The guilt you feel for not being enough, for needing rest, for having limits.
And sometimes, you begin to question yourself. Is it really that bad? Is this just my overreaction? Maybe I should try harder…
But no. You are not overreacting. You are surviving.And that is more than enough.
Raising Awareness, Not Pity
This blog post is not intended to be supportive. It’s written for awareness. To tell someone out there: You are seen, you are valid and you are not alone.
Invisible disabilities affect millions. And yet, so many suffer in silence, afraid to speak up or explain themselves. The world must be aware that disability is not always obvious. That someone can look okay and still be battling every single second.
So let’s stop saying “But you don’t look sick.” Let’s start saying, “I believe you, I’m here for you.”
Supporting Someone with an Invisible Disability
Here’s how you can help:
Believe them, even if you are unable to comprehend their experience. Keep waiting. Flare-ups and bad days come without warning.
Educate yourself. Learn about lupus, endometriosis, PTSD, ADHD, and other conditions. Offer kindness. It costs nothing but means everything.
Living with a disability that goes unnoticed is a journey of strength, bravery, and quiet resilience. The fact that it isn’t obvious to the outside world doesn’t make it less real. If you’re someone living with one, I see you. Keep going, even if all you did today was breathe and try. That’s enough.
And if you know someone facing this quiet battle, be the person who listens, supports, and never doubts what can’t be seen.
Meet the Author
This beautiful piece was written by Laiba Noor. Laiba is a hardworking Content Creator, Social Media Manager and Influencer Marketer who lives in Pakistan. If you enjoyed this post and would like to work with Laiba, you can reach her on LinkedIn or Instagram.
Life with Charli 