re: non-negotiable self-care
After reading Prickly Oxhe's post about non-negotiable self-care, specifically highlighting the routine of Tim Cook, I got to thinking about my priorities in day to day life.
There are a few things that I simply must make time for in my day. Those are:
A cup of coffee, whether from the caf or from the french press in my studio. I find that those few minutes of just sitting and enjoying it without any other task nagging at me really prepares me for the day. It's that one deep breath before you charge on.
Practicing at least 30 minutes of the piano, more if I can help it or if I get into a good groove. The piano, as I've previously written, is my one non-architecture related joy in a sea of rulers and pencils and spaces. (I've finally gotten to a "finished" status with Ballade No.1, and am now working on Liebestraum No.3! Very rewarding feeling to finish something so difficult.)
Producing something. Even if it's a to-do list that doesn't get done. In my desire to document and create something physical of my life, having something to show for myself at the end of the day is a must. For example, yesterday, I fixed a skirt of mine and altered a jacket. Other days, I've made little zines, or on slow days, just a journal entry. As long as it's something.
These things may be stretching the dimensions of what could be considered self-care per se, but they do give me a sense of peace in the mess of the day. I find if I accomplish the simplest task of even having my coffee, I feel more set up to continue to conquer. Especially if I'm in the studio and my work is sitting right in front of me!
I'm curious what little habits or hobbies have made their way into people's daily routines. While everyone's different, we all need a little something consistent!