6 Self-Care Ideas for Broke and Overworked Theatre Kids

So I don’t know about you but I’m finishing the year exhausted. And to be honest this is not the first time.

I know that I really need that Christmas break. I need to recharge for a super full on new year to come with one show going on tour, another one in preparation, a few wonderful mentees!...

Not complaining, not complaining but… Although I am careful most of the time to be organised so I don’t get overworked and overtired, it is in the nature of the work to get completely manic for a few days weeks.

Chances are you’re overworked too! Either it is because you’re crazy busy on a panto or a Christmas show or it is because of juggling it all with the day job.

So I bet I’m not the only one who could do with a bit of self-care, so let me share with you my 6 favourite self-care ideas that you can do under 10 minutes and under $1. Just doing one of those everyday can make a hell lot of a difference in the long run.

1. Have a Boogie

Put your headphones on, pump up the volume, put your favourite dancing tune on and dance! Yes, alone. I actually try to do this most days, specially in the winter when it’s dark very early and it makes it trickier to go for a walk. To be honest, if I have time, I just have a little disco all by myself in the kitchen for 30-45 min. A fun way to get my heart pumping, daydream and relax.

2. Take a Walk

It doesn’t have to be for long but just get out there. Specially if you’ve spent the day in a black box, aka a studio theatre. Fill your lungs with air, look around you, clear your head. For maximum effect try to do it fast and you can work a sweat and release some nice post work out endorphin.

3. Treat Yourself

When I’m out and about or when I used to spend a lot of time on tour, nothing I liked more than to take myself to a pound shop (or dollar store). So find one, browse and treat yourself to something that is going to bring a little joy to your life and make you feel mega special. If you need inspiration for what to buy, the following suggestions might help.

4. Soak in a Bath

We have this idea that we need a lot of time to take a bath but again, just 10 minutes of soaking in warm water could do you so much good. And if you really want to go crazy: add some bubbles, a bath bomb, some nice scents – crazy! And ahhhh, relax.

5. Drink a New Special Tea

So you know when you went to buy yourself a little treat? Well may be one of the thing you could buy yourself is a nice special tea. Hot chocolate or other types of hot beverages are allowed too. Make your brew. Then take the time to drink it doing just that, refrain from checking your phone or reading a magazine at the same time. Just drink, breath, think, relax. And yes, you’re allowed to do it in your bath.

6. Light up a Candle

So may be in the pound shop you found a candle that you liked. Well now is the time to light it and if it’s got a special comforting smell then that’s even better. And yes you can have a mega combo and light your candle, while you’re in the bath drinking your tea. I mean, who’s relaxed now?!

Give these a go. Let me know what you think. What’s your go to routine when you’re overtired and overworked?

WANT MORE TIPS AND TRICKS ABOUT STARTING A CAREER IN THE THEATRE?

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