What “Treating Yourself” Looks Like

Lifestyle

Aug 15

The other day, I was on the phone with my dear friend Jess, and somehow we ended up on the topic of “treating ourselves.” I told her that I am pretty low maintenance; I don't go to the salon often, and most of the time, when I spend money on myself, it is on little cute things I can wear or enjoy at home. Those small finds fill my cup in the sweetest way.

Jess laughed and told me that for her, nothing feels better than getting a facial. She lights up when she walks out of the spa with glowing skin. I had to confess… I have never had a facial in my life. There was a pause on the line, and then she said, “Wait… never?!” We both burst out laughing.

A few days later, I was at a family dinner in the Cape and mentioned the conversation. I thought it would just get a few laughs, but the next thing I know, a facial gift card pops into my email from my dear Aunt Janet. She decided it was time for me to experience it for myself, and I could not believe her sweetness.

When I finally went to my appointment, I did not realize how much I needed it. I saw a lovely lady named Sarah in Falmouth, Cape Cod, and had the most amazing time. I walked out feeling brand new. I thought I was already a master at self-care, but I realized I had been missing something — opening myself to new experiences. Feeling good is so much more than cute flats and a new pair of earrings.

Just this week, I had another little reminder of that. One morning, I woke up feeling just okay. Brendon was working, my calendar was light, and I decided to do something to lift my mood. I went for a manicure. When the woman handed me the color samples and said, “Pick a color,” I surprised her and myself by picking ten. A rainbow, one shade for each finger. She looked at me with a “are you kidding me?” face, and I told her, “I will pay whatever it costs extra, I just know this will make me happy.” And it did. This little rainbow makes me happy every time I look at my hands, and I am so glad I did it.

I am so thankful for the amazing women in my life who check in on me, and for this community that truly supports each other. Sometimes self-care is about what you already know works for you. Sometimes it is about letting someone else show you something new.

I am writing this to inspire you to look for what truly makes you happy. Open your heart to new things you may not yet know you love. It could be a color analysis, a rainbow manicure, or something you have never even thought of before. The magic is in permitting yourself to explore.