For as long as I can remember I have struggled with my mental health, more recently I have had to balance that with trying to deal with my physical health. Now trying to juggle several physical disabilities while also dealing with anxiety, depression and just generally very complicated mental health (read more about here), I sometimes forget just how important it is for me to find time for self care.
Lately I have read a few blog posts all about the importance of self care and the various things that people do in order to care for themselves; one of my favourites has been Laura’s post over at Laura Spoonie, you can see the post here. After reading it the other day it reminded me just how much I need to find my own ways to practise self-care, especially while I am struggling day to day with mental and physical health. So this is what this is all about, getting over my excuses and focusing more on ways I can do it. 
MY top and favourite way for self care has to be reading, but it has to be reading something that Im reading for myself, not just for a review or study. This is something I often do daily, and sometimes for much of the day; however whenever I start to feel ill or struggling with mental health, I find that I just stop and don’t pick up a book. I’m in that situation at the moment, I’m having issues with pain and fatigue which is having a knock on effect to my depression and anxiety. I’m sad to say Ive not picked up a book for more than a page or two in over a month. It upsets me as I have so much I want to read, you can see my overly ambitious TBR for this month here. Now I am going to focus on trying to get back into a book tonight.
You can not beat a hot bath with bubbles, music on, and a book in hand- oh and did I mention a good cuppa tea! At the moment I cant do this as I have no use of one of my feet- its a long story, but basically I fell down the stairs. So currently, Im having to wait for my partner to be over so he can help lift me into the bath- yes its embarrassing and awkward but oh well its life. However I am still managing to soak my feet in hot soapy water, which at least makes me feel a bit better.
For me, going and getting my nails done is something that can make me feel so much better about myself. I, for a long time, stopped doing this because ‘I couldn’t afford it’, after about six months, a depression flare up, and several viruses, I started again. Its £25 for 3 weeks, that’s the price for me to feel human even when I cant get the energy to brush my hair or clean my teeth. In the long run, I think that’s a price worth paying.
Finally, something I am finding my love is growing and growing for, photography. I’ve always enjoyed it every now and again, but lately since getting my nice camera, I am loving taking every opportunity I can. Recently I went on holiday with my partner, and I have to say I think I have found the perfect photography partner, but that’s a different story. When I’m out in nature taking photography, I find myself getting lost in the focus of what Im doing, and that gives me such a sense of achievement. 
So they are just some of my favourite ways to make time for myself, to make sure that I am taking care of myself to give me the best chance of keeping on top of my mental health. Some of these work better than others, and work better at various times. If it involves going outside then it normally means that I cant when Im overly anxious, it will just lead to me getting worse, but other times staying inside can do the same thing. I have a wide array of self care activities and these are just some of my favourites, in future I would love to possibly do more posts like this with some of my other techniques.
All images used are all photography shots I have taken.
angelwingsandpetticoats.com 
Hey #SpoonieSister 😁
Is Alex Marie your first name?
I so understand the struggle between physical illness, mental illness and everything in between and then trying to remember self-care. It’s a lot, but so necessary for us especially being chronically ill.
I’m trying so hard this month to focus more on taking time out to treat myself.
So sorry you had a fall 😥 hope your foot feels better soon and defo. Take that bubble bath girl and get them nails done you deserve it. Take a snap of the nails when you get them done ☺
Glad to have connected with you, One Spoon At A Time hun 😇💜🌌
Laura
@LauraSpoonie
https://lauraspoonie.wordpress.com
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Heya, yes it’s my first name but I just go by Alexx 😊
It’s tough but we just have to remember to take care of ourselves. If we don’t then there is no way we can fight the demon that chronic illness can be.
Thank you, I will do! Love getting them done 😊
Alexx
@Alexxmarie74
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Such a great post! You have some brilliant tips xx
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Thank you xx
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These photos are beautiful. I always have so many things on my plate that I have to get done, I find it hard to stop and remember to do something because I want to do it, not because I have to! Lovely post.
Cordelia || cordeliamoor.com
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Thank you, I’m very proud of my photos lately. I know how that can feel, I seem to be always doing something or another at the moment xx
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I love this post! I can relate to this in so many ways. I myself had issues with depression and anxiety. I overcame it by reading , writing and working out. I actually plan to start a book club because I believe reading really helps. When you go through a depression you feel like no one will understand what you are going through. But when I read a few stories I realized there were people out there that did understand me and they found ways to tell their story. It is brave of you to tell your story. I admire you for it. Keep up the good work you never know who may need to see this.
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Great post. I like your suggestions for self-care. I always find a good book excellent for relaxation, and you’re right, it has to be something you want to read! Glad you discovered a passion for photography. Following one’s passion is so important in life. Wishing you well!
Trace x | http://www.thefashioncollector.com
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Thank you so much for taking the time to read it. Photography is something I used to do with my granddad all the time, I’ve only just found it’s something I’d like to continue doing xx
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These are wonderful tips! I am completely with you on all of them. Baths, books and LOTS of tea are the epitome of self-care to me. I love that you’ve taken the time to hopefully help others that might be struggling. Thank you! 😊
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It’s okay, I find these posts also help to focus my mind on the important things. I’m glad you liked it xx
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I love this, especially going out to participate in hobbies like photography and getting your nails done. I get my eyebrows done, at first I felt guilty about spending the money, but now I see it as an investment in myself. We should all do these things. 🙂
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Absolutely! For the small amount of money that has you feeling better about yourself it’s completely worth it 😊xx
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Making time for ones self is VERY important! Thank you for sharing your thoughts about self-care. I really had a great time reading your post 🌿
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Thank you, I’m realising the importance of it more and more lately. I will be doing more posts like this xx
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LOVE this post Alexx! Its so important to self-care and make time for yourself. I really enjoy a hot bubble bath with relaxing bath salts thrown in, some candles and a cup of tea whilst laying in bed to wind down. Works a treat! Thanks for sharing your tips. X
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I need to try bath salts, I’ve heard great things about their relaxing qualities xx
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I recommend Epsom bath salts. X
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I’ll order some tomorrow I think xx
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