Self-Care 101: Because loving yourself is the ultimate glow-up

Self-care - what a peculiar phrase. The modern world would have you believe it’s about face masks, green smoothies, or a meticulously curated morning routine. But let’s pause for a moment, take a deep breath, and ask: what is self-care, really?

Self-care isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s not about what looks good on Instagram; it’s about what genuinely makes you feel good. And that, more than anything, starts with self-love.

As RuPaul famously said: "If you can't love yourself, how in the hell are you gonna love anyone else?"

And yet, self-love isn’t about forcing anything - it’s about remembering. You, just as you are, are worthy of care. It’s that quiet moment when you realise: you’ve been enough all along.

The Butterfly Effect of Self-Care

If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’re just going through the motions, consider this your reminder: you don’t need to wait for a special occasion to prioritise yourself. Start now, start small - because even the tiniest shift can spark massive change.

At Terps & Co, we call this the butterfly effect - one tiny decision creating ripples that can transform your entire life. 🦋 Maybe it’s swapping your usual drink for non-alcoholic drinks that make you feel good inside and out. Maybe it’s setting aside five minutes in the morning just for you. Whatever it is, the moment you take that first step, you set something bigger in motion.

And the best part? You don’t need a perfect plan -just a place to start. Small changes build momentum, and before you know it, they lead to more balance, more clarity, more joy.

What’s one small thing you can do today - for you?

Why self-care starts with self-love

Self-care habits often come with expectations—morning yoga, green juices, meditation - but real self-care has no rulebook. It’s not about what society says you should do; it’s about what genuinely makes you feel good.

At its core, self-care is an act of self-love. And self-love isn’t just about affirmations in the mirror - it’s about treating yourself with the same kindness you give others.

In short: Self-love is the belief. Self-care is the practice.

When you truly value yourself, you naturally start taking better care of yourself - not because you should, but because you deserve it. And that care? It should be guilt-free, done at your own pace, and shaped by what feels right for you.

Self-care, re-defined

• Listen to your body – Rest when you need to, move when it feels good, and nourish yourself in a way that works for you.

• Do what you love, without guilt – Forget the “rules” of what self-care should look like. Find what truly brings you joy.

• Make self-care a ritual, not a chore – It’s not another task to tick off; it’s about weaving small moments of mindful living into your daily routine.

Now that we’ve reframed what self-care really means, let’s explore some new self-care habits to try this year.

New Self-Care Habits to Try in 2025 

Have a Dance Party (Solo or With Mates)
Move your body, shift stagnant energy, and let go of stress. Play your favourite song, turn up the volume, and dance like nobody’s watching!

Conscious Breathing
Most of us don’t realise how shallow our breathing is—especially when stressed. Try deep belly breathing: inhale through your nose, hold for a moment, then exhale with an audible sigh. Bonus points for doing it dramatically.

Sauna, Ice Baths & Contrast Therapy
Cold plunges and heat therapy are growing trends in New Zealand wellness for a reason. They help with stress relief, mental resilience, recovery, and provide a natural energy boost. Whether it’s a sauna, a dip in the ocean, or a cold shower, give it a go!

Alcohol-Free Drinks for a Clearer Mind (We might be biased, but… 😉)

Cutting back on alcohol doesn’t mean missing out. In fact, you’ll gain more present, enjoyable time back - along with better sleep, sharper focus, and more natural energy throughout the day. Many people also feel calmer, with no "hangxiety" or regrets from the night before.

Non-alcoholic drinks like Terps & Co’s terpene-infused beverages are a perfect functional beverage alternative. They let you enjoy the experience of a great drink while keeping your mind clear and your body happy. It’s all about making the most of every moment!

Prioritising Rest & Sleep
Rest isn’t laziness - it’s a necessary part of holistic well-being. Think of it this way: plants don’t rush to bloom - they grow in the dark first. Take the nap, log off early, and let yourself recharge.

Your self-care, your rules

At the end of the day, self-care isn’t about what’s trendy - it’s about what feels right for you. So tune into your body, listen closely, and try different things to figure out what works for you and what doesn’t.

Make 2025 the year you take care of yourself - without guilt, without pressure, and on your terms.