She Strengthens

Finding Solace in Self-Care During Uncertain Times

As the world grapples with unprecedented levels of anxiety and depression, it’s easy to feel lost and disconnected from our daily lives. Recently, I found myself struggling to cope with the uncertainty of our new reality. To combat these feelings, I turned to a familiar routine that brought me joy: primping.

Rediscovering Confidence

The idea that taking care of our physical appearance can boost our mental well-being isn’t new, but it’s especially relevant now. I used to enjoy dressing up and wearing makeup as a way to express myself and feel confident. However, as the pandemic took hold, I found myself neglecting these habits. I stopped washing my hair, rarely wore makeup, and skipped my nighttime skincare routine. It was as if I had lost touch with the person I used to be.

A Week of Self-Care Experimentation

To shake off this funk, I decided to spend a week doing my hair and makeup as I normally would. I took selfies each day to track my progress and prove to myself that I could still find joy in these simple acts. My husband, Peter, was skeptical at first, but his own routine of showering and dressing every day showed me that maintaining some semblance of normalcy was crucial.

The Power of Compliments and Skincare

The most noticeable changes during my experiment were the compliments I received from coworkers and the positive impact on my skin. Receiving genuine praise from others boosted my confidence, even if it was just through a laptop camera. Moreover, getting back into my skincare routine made a significant difference in how I felt, both physically and mentally.

Rediscovering What Matters

While this experiment didn’t magically cure my anxiety or change my daily productivity, it did remind me of the life I loved before the pandemic. I still have my relationships, hobbies, and passions, even if I can’t engage with them in the same way. It’s comforting to know that these aspects of my life are still intact, waiting to be rediscovered when the time is right.

Embracing Uncertainty

In the end, my experiment taught me that it’s okay to find comfort in small, seemingly trivial acts of self-care. It’s a reminder that we don’t have to conform to societal expectations, and that taking care of ourselves is essential during uncertain times. As I move forward, I’ll continue to prioritize my well-being and remember that, yes, washing my face does make a difference.