Monday

"I release pressure and welcome gentleness."

Welcome to Monday! Today, we're chatting about:

• Are you actually resting when you’re sick?

• The real reason you’re procrastinating

• What to know about buying collagen

• How to prepare for sickness

• How to protect your wallet when pets get sick

How to Rest Your Body and Mind When Sick

When illness strikes, it's tempting to push through, thinking that resting means simply lying in bed or catching up on easy tasks. But real rest—especially during recovery—goes beyond that. It’s about allowing your mind and body to truly recharge, rather than simply taking a break from your usual routines. Research shows that meaningful rest helps your body heal faster, reducing stress and giving you the space to recover properly.

Resting doesn’t just mean physically resting. It’s important to quiet your mind and avoid mentally demanding activities like answering emails or making decisions. When your body is unwell, it’s just as crucial to give your brain a break as it is to rest your muscles. Mindless activities, such as watching a familiar TV show or listening to calming music, allow your brain to relax and support physical healing.

Though it might seem like doing less is unproductive, true rest can actually improve your recovery time and prevent burnout. If you’re sick, focus on taking it slow, limiting distractions, and embracing the quiet moments. Sometimes, the most important thing is to simply give yourself permission to rest.

The Anxiety-Procrastination Cycle

Procrastination often feels like a time-management issue, but for many, it’s tied to anxiety. When overwhelmed by stress, the brain can activate a "freeze" response, leaving you feeling paralyzed rather than motivated. This reaction is not laziness; it’s a coping mechanism that keeps you stuck in a cycle of avoidance, making tasks feel more intimidating.

If you’re caught in this cycle, small, manageable steps can help ease the burden. Instead of tackling an entire project, break it into smaller tasks. Practice self-compassion and remind yourself that perfection isn’t the goal—progress is. Shifting your mindset from perfectionism to simply moving forward can make a huge difference in your productivity and emotional well-being.

To help regulate your nervous system, try grounding techniques like breathwork, gentle movement, or a quiet walk. These can signal to your brain that it’s safe to take action. And remember, if the cycle is affecting your life regularly, therapy can provide support and strategies for long-term relief. Procrastination doesn’t define you—it’s a response that can be managed with the right tools.

What Collagen Companies Don't Want Seniors to Know

Why do some people see amazing results with collagen while others notice nothing at all? The answer isn't in your age or biology – it's hidden in the supplement label. Most consumers over 50 are missing 5 crucial signs that reveal whether their collagen supplement is the real deal or just expensive protein powder. Before you spend another dollar on collagen, discover what leading researchers say you must look for. This could be the most important label-reading lesson you'll ever get.

Learn More

Thank you to NativePath for sponsoring Note To Self. 

What You Need to Do Before Sickness Strikes

When sickness strikes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Preparing ahead of time can help ease the burden when you or a family member falls ill. Start by ensuring your medicine cabinet is stocked with essentials such as pain relievers, decongestants, a thermometer, and a pulse oximeter to check oxygen levels. Having these items on hand means you won't have to rush to the store when you’re feeling unwell.

Next, make sure your pantry is stocked with hydration options like water, tea, broths, and soups, plus essentials like tissues, hand soap, and surface disinfectant.

Set up a designated sick room in your home, equipped with comfort items like blankets, tissues, and hand sanitizer. This helps minimize contact and prevents the spread of germs.

Also, take the time to prepare for possible work or childcare disruptions. Know your sick leave policies, arrange for backup childcare if needed, and stay in touch with schools or employers about missed assignments or work. By preparing now, you'll make it easier to manage when illness strikes and focus on getting well.

Pet Insurance Could Help You Offset Rising Veterinary Costs

Wellness Round-Up

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ Did You Know: True. Illness can affect mood, motivation, and overall outlook while your body is healing.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers’ lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Sickness can be a reminder to come back to the basics. Warm meals, soft clothes, deep breaths—small comforts matter.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!