With the busy lives we lead it can be hard to make time for ourselves and practice self-care. Quite often we think we don't have time and / or feel guilty for doing something that's just for us.

For anyone self-isolating or working from home, whether you're a dancer or regular human, it can actually be harder to get into a healthy lifestyle.

Making sure we eat right, exercise regularly and get plenty of sleep can be a challenge but it's not just about keeping a fit, healthy dance fit body.

Taking the time to look after your mental health is just as important. Even for 30 mins a day it can have so many health benefits. And if you're suffering from quarantine burnout taking some time for you could be part of the new routine you need to get you back on track and dance floor ready.

We thought we'd share a few self-care tips that we use for getting into an easy morning routine and starting the day right.

• Wake up early - don't hit snooze. It's hard at first but once you get into a rhythm of waking up earlier your body will automatically start to sync into the pattern.
• Rehydrate - drink a glass of water. Your body needs to rehydrate after 8 hours of sleep.
• Meditate - Clear your mind from the business of the day ahead. If you struggle with meditation try downloading a meditation app or podcast to help you get into the zone. We like Breethe but there are heaps of others.
• Exercise - Being physical like going for a morning walk/jog, hitting the gym or practicing yoga are great ways to get your body moving and to give your brain a positive boost. Just 20 minutes could do you the world of good.
• Write  - a great way to encourage positive thinking is to write positive words. Try writing at least 1 new thing you're grateful for everyday. We love this gratitude diary for journaling and noting our thoughts.
• Have a cup of Coffee - sitting quietly with a cup of your favourite warm drink is a great way to ease into your day. Find a nice spot on your balcony, comfy chair or garden corner. (Why not multi-task and journal at the same time)
• Avoid using your phone and any devices - if you can,  try to wait until you've at least completed  the above steps before looking at your mobile phone. You'll likely be absorbed by some form of digital device during the day so take this time for you to mentally prepare for the day before checking your emails.
• Have a shower - seems like an obvious one but you might be tempted to skip it if you're working from home. Don't! Enjoy a nice warm shower followed by a cold blast for a few seconds - trust us - you'll feel invigorated and refreshed.
• Get dressed for success - you'll feel more like you can conquer the world if you put on something that makes you feel good.  
• Get to work -  feel a spring in your step thanks to your new positive regime. Go you good thing!