Let’s do this together
There’s an apocryphal story about an editor who called the paper’s astrologer into his office to be fired. Expressing shock at losing their job, the editor told them: “Well you clearly can’t be any good if you didn’t see that coming!”
I have to admit to not believing in horoscopes, but it’s so easy to project yourself on to the traits of a star sign. I’m a Gemini, by the way, so I’m always in two minds about everything.
Looking after ourselves – or self-care as it’s called – is so important right now. A week into our third lockdown, we know this is going to be a bit of a marathon, so it’s important to pace ourselves.
Here on this page, we showcase many of the hobbies and interests that keep you busy while we wait for the worst to pass, but it’s also a good idea to avoid reading or watching too much bad news.
Just writing this page every day cheers me up and stops me ‘doom-scrolling’ on social media, which I’ve no doubt can be a very real cause of anxiety.
So whether you believe in your horoscopes or not, the self-care ideas on today’s page are helpful for us all. However, I would also add, it’s bang on for me – my exercise of choice is HIIT sessions.
Saying that, so is opening the biscuit tin. Email me at siobhan.mcnally@mirror.co.uk or write to Community Corner, PO Box 791, Winchester SO23 3RP.
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These self-care practices according to your Zodiac sign by health practitioner Gemma Hampson at GearHungry are useful for everyone…
ARIES A natural born leader who applies unwavering focus and determination to each task in front of them. Innately competitive, an Aries is prepared to work for long hours. SELF-CARE: Aries needs to be mindful of burnout and checking emails can be addictive. Unsubscribing and deleting will ease stress on a daily basis.
TAURUS Very opinionated and can be incredibly stubborn. Once they have a plan, they like to stick to it. They crave structure, routine and stability, and will save to invest in luxury purchases. SELF-CARE: Meditation at the same time every day accompanied by scented candles will reduce stress by suppressing the production of cortisol.
A social butterfly who loves to meet new people and learn all about them. They are always on the go and their mind works at a million miles an hour.
SELF-CARE: As a Gemini is fast-moving and loses focus easily, HIIT workouts and/or circuit training boost energy levels and enhance a positive mindset.
CANCER
They hold emotional depth like no other sign. Deep thinkers, they have great emotional instincts, often rely on their gut feelings and are their social circles ‘go to’ people for advice.
SELF-CARE: Cancer is naturally drawn to water, so a warm bath will be the ideal treat – it increases the temperature of the body and, in turn, relaxes muscles.
Never short of confidence. They are very sure of themselves, secure in their opinions and not afraid to rock the boat. They tend to own the room and are extremely loyal too.
Will practise and practise until they are pros. As perfectionists, they are often self-critical and very hard on themselves. Virgos are great communicators and are highly organised.
SELF-CARE: A stickler for routine, a Virgo will thrive in a quiet environment and doing some drawing and/or painting for a set time every day.
Thrive in relationships, value companionship and can solve conflict easily. They are also people pleasers and are always trying to keep everyone happy. SELF-CARE: As they appreciate the beauty in material things, working with crystals can be practiced and also displayed around the home.
Fiercely protective of loved ones. They may not easily allow others to access their deepest thoughts or desires but, when they love, they love hard.
A Scorpio is at home in nature and at their best when they are outside. Walking in the great outdoors is their perfect self-care activity.
They have a care-free nature and don’t take life too seriously, which is often a positive trait. However, it can frustrate those around them who wish to discuss serious matters. SELF-CARE: Creating a vision board allows them to put their dreams on paper, which stirs excitement and promotes productivity.
Fiercely independent, self-sufficient and ambitious. They tend to see the negative before the positive, however they are realists and also very disciplined. SELF-CARE: As they love to learn new things, yoga is an ideal practice for Capricorns as it boosts energy, eases anxiety and can always be improved.
Natural eccentrics with an eye for detail. They adore unusual activities but can also be very stubborn. Analytical and clever, they’re problem solvers. SELF-CARE: Doing puzzles or playing digital games solo or with others online is perfect for Aquarians.
Deeply-rooted in emotion and don’t judge others. They are often the romantic type and can pick up on the feelings of others by sensing their vibe.
With psychic tendencies and an inner wisdom, the most beneficial self-care practice for Pisces is writing a diary or journal.