You Are Your Best Friend: Everyday Rituals for Self-Care

By Anisa Makhoul

This book serves as an artful and loving reminder: it's OK to put yourself first.

We know self-care is important—after all, if we want to take care of others, we must first take care of ourselves—but what does that actually mean? You Are Your Best Friend offers thoughtful tips for navigating the inevitable pressures of your daily grind. From practical advice and fun activities to strategies that will completely change your mind-set, these uplifting messages will help you cultivate a more compassionate, empathetic, and fulfilling life. Each brief lesson is accompanied by a cheerful illustration in this cozy read. And don't worry, taking good care of yourself is easier than it sounds—a little self-love goes a long way.

• SELF-CARE IS VITAL: Studies have shown that prioritizing your own health and well-being makes you more successful in your life's endeavors and helps reduce stress, anxiety, and the negative effects those emotions can have on your job and relationships. The tips in this book will empower you to be a healthier, happier version of yourself.

• SELF-CARE IS EASY: With a little bit of guidance, it's easy to create your own self-care rituals. Author Anisa Makhoul offers an empathetic and straightforward guide to carving out time for you. Her hand-rendered, intimate illustrations invite you to bring more coziness and comfort to your everyday life.

• SELF-CARE IS FUN: These mantras and ideas are gifts you give yourself! Let Makhoul show you how to invite more joy and contentment into your daily routine.

Perfect for:

• People who consciously practice self-care and those looking to get started
• All those who are champions for others but always put themselves last—and the people who love them!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Chronicle Books Digital
• Release date: Apr 6, 2021
• ISBN: 9781452184074

Anisa Makhoul

Anisa Makhoul is an artist based in Portland, Oregon.

Book preview

4

INTRODUCTION

Contrary to what you might think, self-care is not selfish. It’s not all expensive yoga retreats, face masks, and juice cleanses. Self-care is for everyone. Even the smallest act of self-care is a revolutionary act of self-love. In her book of essays, A Burst of Light, Black feminist writer Audre Lorde explains: Caring for myself is not a self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare. Lorde’s words build on the legacy of the Black Panther Party, which encouraged Black communities to open their own healthcare clinics, start school meal programs, and provide other essential services to ensure the survival of people of color. Faced with the adversity of racism, these radical activists promoted the rhetoric and practice of self-love.

When you love yourself, you’re better able to filter out the toxicity of the world. Knowing your own worth helps you set boundaries. It allows you to live from a place of love and compassion instead of guilt and obligation—this not only benefits you, but also helps you do better for those around you. When you are mindful of how you treat yourself, you become mindful of how you treat others. Taking care of yourself feels good. Feeling good about yourself helps you face the world’s challenges with maximum compassion, empathy, and patience. It enables you to follow your dreams. Practicing simple daily self-care rituals, such as the ones in this book, will transform