#selfconfidence Archives - Elegant Nails & Beauty by Sue

11 Tips for making self care your priority

Elegant Nails & Beauty by Sue — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 07:14:00 +0000

With the holiday season finally behind us let’s make a resolution to make your self care your number one priority.

This month let’s explore 11 self-care tips that you can incorporate into your daily life to start taking better care of yourself.

Tip #1. Well-Being

Well-being encompasses health, happiness, and prosperity. It includes having good mental health, high life satisfaction, a sense of purpose, and the ability to manage stress.

Tip #2. Mindfulness

Being present in the moment, paying attention to your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Mindfulness practices include meditation, deep breathing, and grounding exercises.

Tip #3. Hydration

Staying adequately hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day. Proper hydration supports physical health and cognitive function.

Tip #4. Mental Health Day

Reduce your mental stress by taking a break from work or routine to recharge.

By stepping away from daily pressures and dedicating time to self-care, you allow your mind and body to relax and recharge.

Tip #5. Digital Detox

A period during which you intentionally avoid using electronic devices (like smartphones or computers) to reduce stress and enhance real-world social interactions.

Tip #6. “Me Time”

Allocating time for yourself is an important act of self care.

Whether it’s getting your nails manicured, having a massage, taking a bath, or simply relaxing with a cuppa skimming through your favourite magazine is essential for recharging your energy.

Tip #7. Self-Care Practice

Developing intentional habits that prioritize your physical, emotional, and mental health is key.

Practice self care by exercise to journaling to spending time in nature.

Tip #8. Reconnect with Yourself and Others

Strengthening connections with loved ones and nurturing your own well-being is vital for good health.

Cultivating strong relationships provide emotional support, reduces stress and helps boost self esteem.

Tip #9. Reduce Negative Inputs

Limit exposure to stress-inducing news, social media, or other negative influences.

Protect your mental and emotional state by seeking out positive reinforcements.

Tip #10. Learn Say No Politely

Reflect on what’s working and what’s not working in your life.

Decide if you need to remove yourself from people or situations that cause you anxiety?

Setting boundaries is an act of self-care so don’t be afraid to decline requests or commitments without feeling guilty.

Tip #11. Remain on Top of Your Game

If you want to consistently perform at your highest level.

Prioritising self-care ensures you stay at your best.

Taking scheduled breaks can help you return to your routine feeling more refreshed, focused, and better equipped to handle challenges.

Remember, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.

So go ahead, treat yourself to some well-deserved TLC and start making your self care a priority!

Spread the word

10 Ways to Practice Self-love

Elegant Nails & Beauty by Sue — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 06:31:15 +0000

You can improve all areas of your life including your self-esteem, by following our 10 ways to practice self-love guide on a daily basis, and your life will change for the better.

Self-love is making sure you take care of your own needs and not sacrifice your health and well-being to please others.

1. Stop ALL criticism

Criticism never helps any situation.

Make a conscious choice not to criticise yourself (or anyone else) anymore, and accept yourself exactly as you are.

If you have been criticising yourself for a while and it hasn’t helped you feel any better, try approving of yourself and see what happens!

2. Forgive and forget

Everyone makes mistakes and no one is perfect. As the saying goes when we know better, we do better!

Next time you find yourself beating yourself up for something you did in the past.

Stop and forgive yourself and then never think of it again.

If a friend made the same mistake you would forgive them.

Learn to not live in the past, let the past go. You did the best you could at the time with the understanding, awareness, and knowledge that you had.

Now that you have learned more you will make better choices and you will live your life differently.

3. Think positive thoughts

What we focus on expands so stop terrorizing yourself with negative thoughts. Think happy thoughts and chase away the scary thoughts.

By doing this you will attract positive situations and people into your life.

4. Be kind to your mind

Hating your own thoughts leads to self-hatred. Be gentle and kind with yourself. Don’t spend time hating yourself for having negative thoughts, we all have them occasionally.

Next time a negative thought pops in to your mind, change the thought to a happier one ie: a laughing baby, spending time with your pet, watching a sunset.

5. Give yourself some credit

Over time criticism breaks down the inner spirit whilst praise and positivity builds it up. So consciously praise yourself as much as you can.

When you have a win, no matter how small, congratulate yourself.

6. Build a Network

No one wants to go through challenges by themselves, so it is important to reach out for help when you need it.

Reaching out to friends and family members to ask for help will allow you to get the support you need to help you through difficult times.

7. Love the positive and the negatives

Acknowledge that you created negative thoughts and patterns to fulfil a need. Now that you are on a different path find positive thoughts to fulfil those needs.

Try to find new, positive ways to fulfil those needs and release the negative patterns that no longer serve you.

8. Worship your temple

To look good on the outside as well as feel good on the inside, it is all about balance. Taking care of your mind/body/spirit means getting quality sleep, drinking water, regular meditation, eating a balanced diet and taking regular exercise.

You take your car in for wheel alignments and regular engine services so you need to do the same with your own engine. This includes regular energetic tune ups including regular massages and reiki sessions.

9. Do Daily Mirror Work

Louise Hay advocates doing regular Mirror Work. She suggests looking into your eyes whilst expressing the love you have for yourself, and any time you need to forgive yourself.

Mirror work can have a profound effect when working through issues or disagreements you might be having with your partner/friend/parent.

If you are one that doesn’t like confrontation (who does) disagreements can be healed and forgiven when you state your case whilst looking into the mirror.

Don’t forget…before you go to sleep each night, look in the mirror and say, “I love you, I really love you”!

10. Love yourself… Now

There is no time like the present… begin your self-love exploration now. Don’t wait until tomorrow, don’t wait until you lose the weight, get the new job, or find the new relationship.

Begin now — and be the best version of yourself that you can be today! With every sunrise comes a new day.

There are many ways to practice self-love… no more excuses… practice these 10 self-love tips and reap the rewards!

Spread the word

5 Tips for a Positive Body Image

Elegant Nails & Beauty by Sue — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 23:30:00 +0000

Embrace a positive body image, regardless of size or shape, with these 5 empowering tips.

Research shows many women still struggle with self-love, which is why we’ve compiled essential strategies to cultivate a positive body image for all.

Deep down we all want to love and accept our bodies so we spend money on hair, nails, makeup, clothes and accessories, striving to look our best.

Now more than ever it is important to learn to be loving and caring towards ourselves, by following these 5 tips you will gain a positive body image in no time.

Tip #1 Build a supportive network

It is easier to feel good about yourself when you are around others who are supportive and nurturing to your needs.

Friends and family members that provide encouraging comments and support about a person’s appearance will contribute to a healthy body image.

Being around people who embrace their own weight and curves will have a positive body image.

Women aren’t born being dissatisfied with their bodies – it is a consequence of societal factors and pressures from fashion magazines, tv advertisements and music videos creating the unobtainable perfect woman.

Every one of us are unique and special, so don’t value yourself based on other people’s ideals.

Tip #2 Shop mannequins need curves

When trying on clothes in a clothing store, choose colours and fabrics that work with (not against) your body shape.

Not all clothing trends suit every size and shape, so choose clothes that are comfortable and make you feel good about your body.

Not feeling pressured to be thin will boost your body image too. Mixing with people who don’t focus on dress size helps according to a recent study. The preferred female body shape has changed throughout history.

In the 1950’s a curvier woman like Marilyn Munroe was considered very attractive, until Lesley Lawson (better known as Twiggy) took the fashion industry by storm in the 1960’s as the new ideal which then encouraged super models to lose weight and be thin.

Up until recently shop mannequins didn’t have curves but now retailers are introducing normal sized mannequins because they accurately represent the average woman and real women can identify with them.

Focus on being healthy and feeling good about your own unique body shape.

Tip #3 Reject the superwoman ideal

Studies suggest that from a young age, girls learn that a successful woman is nurturing, independent, competitive, and sexy.

Women who try to be all these things are at risk of body image disorders because they try to control their demanding lives by controlling their weight and appearance.

We need to come back to basics, and focus on our talents and celebrate all our achievements.

Tip #4 Manage stress healthily

Finding a way to manage stress is key to developing more satisfaction with the body you have.

Women who have negative body images avoid or distract themselves from their problems – by drinking to excess, binge eating or excessive exercising.

Many people use food as a stress reliever, so it is important to recognise when your emotions are getting too difficult to manage and find another strategy to help deal with your emotions instead of masking them with food, alcohol or exercise.

Tip #5 Focus on Health and Fitness

An appreciation of fitness and health is critical to good body image.

Studies show when women exercise with a focus on improving fitness and health it actually helps their body confidence.

Rather than assessing your body in terms of what it looks like, look at what your body achieves every day.

Celebrate all the amazing things your body does for you – walking, running, dancing, breathing, laughing.

It may take time to master all everything before you have an unshakeable positive body image.

Surround yourself with positive thoughts and keep faking it until you make it and you will!

Spread the word

#selfconfidence Archives - Elegant Nails & Beauty by Sue

11 Tips for making self care your priority

With the holiday season finally behind us let’s make a resolution to make your self care your number one priority.

This month let’s explore 11 self-care tips that you can incorporate into your daily life to start taking better care of yourself.

Tip #1. Well-Being

Well-being encompasses health, happiness, and prosperity. It includes having good mental health, high life satisfaction, a sense of purpose, and the ability to manage stress.

Tip #2. Mindfulness

Being present in the moment, paying attention to your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Mindfulness practices include meditation, deep breathing, and grounding exercises.

Tip #3. Hydration

Staying adequately hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day. Proper hydration supports physical health and cognitive function.

Tip #4. Mental Health Day

Reduce your mental stress by taking a break from work or routine to recharge.

By stepping away from daily pressures and dedicating time to self-care, you allow your mind and body to relax and recharge.

Tip #5. Digital Detox

A period during which you intentionally avoid using electronic devices (like smartphones or computers) to reduce stress and enhance real-world social interactions.

Tip #6. “Me Time”

Allocating time for yourself is an important act of self care.

Whether it’s getting your nails manicured, having a massage, taking a bath, or simply relaxing with a cuppa skimming through your favourite magazine is essential for recharging your energy.

Tip #7. Self-Care Practice

Developing intentional habits that prioritize your physical, emotional, and mental health is key.

Practice self care by exercise to journaling to spending time in nature.

Tip #8. Reconnect with Yourself and Others

Strengthening connections with loved ones and nurturing your own well-being is vital for good health.

Cultivating strong relationships provide emotional support, reduces stress and helps boost self esteem.

Tip #9. Reduce Negative Inputs

Limit exposure to stress-inducing news, social media, or other negative influences.

Protect your mental and emotional state by seeking out positive reinforcements.

Tip #10. Learn Say No Politely

Reflect on what’s working and what’s not working in your life.

Decide if you need to remove yourself from people or situations that cause you anxiety?

Setting boundaries is an act of self-care so don’t be afraid to decline requests or commitments without feeling guilty.

Tip #11. Remain on Top of Your Game

If you want to consistently perform at your highest level.

Prioritising self-care ensures you stay at your best.

Taking scheduled breaks can help you return to your routine feeling more refreshed, focused, and better equipped to handle challenges.

Remember, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.

So go ahead, treat yourself to some well-deserved TLC and start making your self care a priority!

Spread the word

More Articles from our Blog…

10 Ways to Practice Self-love

You can improve all areas of your life including your self-esteem, by following our 10 ways to practice self-love guide on a daily basis, and your life will change for the better.

Self-love is making sure you take care of your own needs and not sacrifice your health and well-being to please others.

1. Stop ALL criticism

Criticism never helps any situation.

Make a conscious choice not to criticise yourself (or anyone else) anymore, and accept yourself exactly as you are.

If you have been criticising yourself for a while and it hasn’t helped you feel any better, try approving of yourself and see what happens!

2. Forgive and forget

Everyone makes mistakes and no one is perfect. As the saying goes when we know better, we do better!

Next time you find yourself beating yourself up for something you did in the past.

Stop and forgive yourself and then never think of it again.

If a friend made the same mistake you would forgive them.

Learn to not live in the past, let the past go. You did the best you could at the time with the understanding, awareness, and knowledge that you had.

Now that you have learned more you will make better choices and you will live your life differently.

3. Think positive thoughts

What we focus on expands so stop terrorizing yourself with negative thoughts. Think happy thoughts and chase away the scary thoughts.

By doing this you will attract positive situations and people into your life.

4. Be kind to your mind

Hating your own thoughts leads to self-hatred. Be gentle and kind with yourself. Don’t spend time hating yourself for having negative thoughts, we all have them occasionally.

Next time a negative thought pops in to your mind, change the thought to a happier one ie: a laughing baby, spending time with your pet, watching a sunset.

5. Give yourself some credit

Over time criticism breaks down the inner spirit whilst praise and positivity builds it up. So consciously praise yourself as much as you can.

When you have a win, no matter how small, congratulate yourself.

6. Build a Network

No one wants to go through challenges by themselves, so it is important to reach out for help when you need it.

Reaching out to friends and family members to ask for help will allow you to get the support you need to help you through difficult times.

7. Love the positive and the negatives

Acknowledge that you created negative thoughts and patterns to fulfil a need. Now that you are on a different path find positive thoughts to fulfil those needs.

Try to find new, positive ways to fulfil those needs and release the negative patterns that no longer serve you.

8. Worship your temple

To look good on the outside as well as feel good on the inside, it is all about balance. Taking care of your mind/body/spirit means getting quality sleep, drinking water, regular meditation, eating a balanced diet and taking regular exercise.

You take your car in for wheel alignments and regular engine services so you need to do the same with your own engine. This includes regular energetic tune ups including regular massages and reiki sessions.

9. Do Daily Mirror Work

Louise Hay advocates doing regular Mirror Work. She suggests looking into your eyes whilst expressing the love you have for yourself, and any time you need to forgive yourself.

Mirror work can have a profound effect when working through issues or disagreements you might be having with your partner/friend/parent.

If you are one that doesn’t like confrontation (who does) disagreements can be healed and forgiven when you state your case whilst looking into the mirror.

Don’t forget…before you go to sleep each night, look in the mirror and say, “I love you, I really love you”!

10. Love yourself… Now

There is no time like the present… begin your self-love exploration now. Don’t wait until tomorrow, don’t wait until you lose the weight, get the new job, or find the new relationship.

Begin now — and be the best version of yourself that you can be today! With every sunrise comes a new day.

There are many ways to practice self-love… no more excuses… practice these 10 self-love tips and reap the rewards!