Style & Self-Care: How Looking Good Can Boost Your Mental Health

Let’s talk about something we often overlook as busy women and mamas: how we feel in our own skin.

Yes, mental health is about inner healing and emotional balance—but let’s not underestimate the power of a cute outfit, a cozy vibe, or a little self-love glow-up ✨

Your Mood Deserves a Makeover Too

Have you ever noticed how slipping into a soft lounge set, throwing on a cute necklace, or even applying a little gloss can instantly shift your mood? That’s not vanity—that’s self-expression and self-respect.

When you feel confident in what you wear, it’s easier to show up for yourself and others with more energy and positivity.

Mental Health Tip: Dress for the Mood You Want

Some mornings are just... rough. Instead of rolling through the day in survival mode, try this:

• Get dressed—even if you’re staying home.

• Choose an outfit that makes you feel confident or cozy.

• Add something small that feels like “you” (a favorite lip gloss, perfume, or accessory).

🧠 This simple act sends a message to your brain: “I’m worth showing up for.”

My Favorite Confidence-Boosting Picks This Week

I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite SHEIN and Amazon finds that are giving me all the comfort and main character energy lately:

🛍️ SHEIN Favorites:
👗 Casual Two-Piece Lounge Set – Stylish enough for errands, cozy enough for couch time.
💼 Neutral Crossbody Bag – Perfect for when you want to feel put-together without the bulk.
💄 Glossy Lip Tint – A tiny touch that makes a big difference.

🛍️ Amazon Goodies:
🕯️ Scented Soy Candle Set – Aromatherapy for the soul.
📓 Mental Health Journal for Moms – Daily check-ins that help you stay grounded.
🧦 Ultra-Soft Fuzzy Socks – Because cozy feet = calm energy.

💬 I may earn a small commission if you shop through these links—and I’m so grateful for your support!

Final Thought: Self-Care is More Than Bubble Baths

Sometimes, self-care looks like taking a deep breath. Other times, it looks like putting on that outfit that reminds you—you’re still her. 💁🏽‍♀️
Style and self-worth go hand in hand. Show up for yourself in whatever way feels best today.

You deserve to feel confident, cozy, and cared for—inside and out. 💖

Start Your Week Strong: Mindset, Motivation & a Self-Care Boost

Happy Monday, friends 💛

It’s the start of a new week—a blank canvas full of possibilities. Whether last week left you feeling empowered or exhausted, this week is a fresh opportunity to reset, refocus, and realign with your goals.

As a therapist, single mom, and woman who wears many hats, I know how hard it can be to juggle it all. That’s why I’m a huge believer in starting the week with intention—and a little self-care magic too ✨

Mindset Shift: You Don’t Have to Do It All

Let’s start with this truth:
👉 You don’t have to be everything to everyone.

Repeat it. Breathe it in. Let it settle.

Your worth isn’t measured by productivity. This week, give yourself permission to release perfection and lean into progress. Instead of overloading your to-do list, ask yourself:
What can I do this week that supports my peace?
What do I need to feel grounded and energized?

Motivation Moment: Anchor Your Week with a “Why”

Try setting a weekly intention. It could be a word, a phrase, or a goal. Here are a few to inspire you:

• Peace over pressure

• Nourish, not neglect

• Show up with grace

• Rest is productive, too

Write it down. Put it on a sticky note. Make it your phone wallpaper. Let it guide how you move through the week.

My Favorite Self-Care Finds (That Won’t Break the Bank)

You don’t need a spa day to practice self-care. Here are a few of my recent Amazon + SHEIN finds that make everyday self-care feel luxurious and intentional:

🧖‍♀️ Amazon Self-Care Picks:

• Aromatherapy Shower Steamers – Instantly turn your shower into a spa.

• Silk Eye Mask – Because rest deserves softness.

• Daily Gratitude Journal – Just 5 minutes a day can shift your mindset.

💅 SHEIN Style & Comfort Picks:

• Loungewear Set – Cute enough to feel put together, comfy enough for school drop-offs.

• Gold Layered Necklace – A small accessory that elevates your whole vibe.

• Soft Ribbed Socks – It’s the cozy details that make the difference.

👉 Treat yourself or grab something small to uplift your week. I may earn a small commission—thank you for supporting my work and this blog!

Let’s Make This Week Count

Here’s your reminder to:
🌼 Drink your water
🌼 Pause when you need to
🌼 Celebrate small wins
🌼 Extend grace to yourself

You’ve got this. And if you need a little encouragement along the way—I’m cheering for you.

Want more mindset and self-care tips?
📖 Read more on the blog: [Insert Blog Link]

Let’s make this a week of intention, not just obligation. 💫

With love, 

Vernitra LaShay

Prioritizing Mental Health as a Busy Parent: Simple Strategies for a Healthier Mind

Parenting is one of the most rewarding experiences, but it can also be mentally exhausting. Between juggling work, household responsibilities, and the emotional needs of your children, it’s easy to put your own mental health on the back burner. However, taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or burnt out, you’re not alone. Here are simple yet effective strategies to prioritize your mental health while balancing the demands of parenting.

I am an Amazon and SHEIN affiliate and commision is earned from any purchases. 

1. Recognize the Signs of Mental Exhaustion

The first step to improving mental health is awareness. Often, parents ignore their own emotional struggles until they feel completely drained.

📌 Signs You May Be Overwhelmed:

• Constant fatigue, even after rest
• Irritability or frequent mood swings
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feeling disconnected from yourself or your loved ones
• Increased anxiety, stress, or feelings of hopelessness

✨ Why It Matters: Acknowledging these signs early allows you to take proactive steps before reaching full burnout.

2. Set Small, Attainable Boundaries

Healthy boundaries help prevent emotional overload and protect your well-being.

🛑 How to Set Boundaries as a Parent:

• Say no to activities or commitments that drain you.
• Limit work-related tasks outside of work hours.
• Teach your children to respect your personal space and downtime.
• Communicate openly with family and friends about your needs.

✨ Why It Matters: Setting limits helps create balance, reducing stress and improving overall mental well-being.

3. Make Time for Daily Self-Care (Even in Small Ways)

Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential for your mental health. The good news? It doesn’t have to be time-consuming.

💆‍♀️ Easy Self-Care Ideas for Busy Parents:

• 5-minute deep breathing before starting your day.
• Take a walk in nature to reset your mind.
• Listen to your favorite music or podcast while cooking or driving.
• Journal or pray for 5-10 minutes before bed.
• Treat yourself to a quiet cup of tea or coffee without distractions.

✨ Why It Matters: Small moments of self-care add up and help reduce stress over time.

4. Practice Mindfulness to Reduce Stress

Mindfulness helps you stay present and avoid feeling mentally overloaded.

🧘‍♀️ Simple Mindfulness Techniques:

• The 5-4-3-2-1 Technique: When stressed, ground yourself by identifying 5 things you see, 4 things you feel, 3 things you hear, 2 things you smell, and 1 thing you taste.
• Mindful Breathing: Take slow, deep breaths in through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly.
• Gratitude Practice: Write down 3 things you’re grateful for each day to shift your mindset.

✨ Why It Matters: Mindfulness reduces anxiety, improves focus, and helps you stay in control during stressful moments.

5. Stay Connected & Ask for Help

You don’t have to navigate parenting and mental health alone. Support systems are essential.

🤝 Ways to Seek Support:

• Talk to a trusted friend or family member about how you’re feeling.
• Join a local or online parent support group.
• Seek professional help from a therapist or counselor if you’re struggling.

✨ Why It Matters: Connection combats loneliness and helps you process emotions in a healthy way.

6. Prioritize Sleep & Rest

Sleep deprivation affects mood, concentration, and stress levels. While getting enough rest as a parent can be challenging, prioritizing sleep is crucial.

😴 Sleep Tips for Better Mental Health:

• Set a consistent bedtime (for you and your kids).
• Avoid screens 30-60 minutes before bed to improve sleep quality.
• Try relaxation techniques before bed (deep breathing, reading, or journaling).
• If sleep isn’t possible (hello, new moms!), take short power naps when you can.

✨ Why It Matters: Even small improvements in sleep can boost mood and reduce stress.

7. Let Go of Perfection & Give Yourself Grace

There’s no such thing as a perfect parent—only a loving one.

💛 Give Yourself Grace By:

• Accepting that you’re doing your best.
• Letting go of guilt when things don’t go as planned.
• Celebrating small wins, even if they seem minor.

✨ Why It Matters: Releasing perfectionism reduces stress and increases self-compassion, making you a happier parent.

Final Thoughts: Prioritizing YOU Is the Best Gift to Your Family

Taking care of your mental health isn’t just good for you—it benefits your children too. When you’re mentally and emotionally well, you can show up as the best version of yourself for your family.

🌱 Remember: Small steps make a big difference. Start with one strategy today and build from there.

💬 Which mental health tip resonates with you the most? Let’s talk in the comments! ❤️

Creating a Balanced Home Routine: A Guide for Busy Parents

Between work, parenting, and personal time, maintaining a balanced home routine can feel overwhelming. But the key to a peaceful and organized home isn’t doing it all—it’s creating a routine that works for you and your family.

A well-structured home routine helps reduce stress, creates stability for your children, and ensures you have time for everything that matters—without feeling burnt out. Here’s how to create a balanced and sustainable home routine that works for your family’s needs.

I am an Amazon and SHEIN affiliate and commision is earned from any purchases. 

1. Start with a Simple Daily Schedule

A routine doesn’t have to be rigid—it just needs structure. A daily flow helps everyone know what to expect, making transitions smoother.

📌 Sample Daily Routine for a Busy Parent:

• 6:30 AM – 7:00 AM → Wake up & morning self-care
• 7:00 AM – 7:45 AM → Breakfast & get kids ready
• 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM → Work/school hours
• 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM → Homework & light chores
• 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM → Dinner & family time
• 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM → Relaxation & screen time
• 8:00 PM – 8:30 PM → Bedtime routine (for kids)
• 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM → Personal time & wind down

📌 Why It Works: Having a predictable flow reduces chaos, keeps tasks manageable, and ensures a mix of productivity and relaxation.

2. Prioritize the Essentials

Not everything needs to be on your to-do list! Focus on what truly needs to get done daily.

✅ Top 3 Daily Priorities:

• Preparing meals
• Maintaining a clean space
• Quality time with family

📌 Why It Works: Overloading yourself with unnecessary tasks leads to burnout. Keep your routine focused and flexible.

3. Create a Cleaning & Chore Routine That Works for You

Keeping your home tidy doesn’t mean spending hours cleaning every day. Break tasks into manageable chunks.

🧹 Simple Cleaning Routine:

• Daily: Quick tidy-up (dishes, countertops, clutter)
• Weekly: Laundry, vacuuming, bathroom cleaning
• Monthly: Deep cleaning (fridge, windows, baseboards)

Pro Tip: Involve your kids! Assign age-appropriate chores so they learn responsibility while lightening your load.

📌 Why It Works: A little cleaning each day prevents overwhelming messes and keeps your home feeling fresh.

4. Meal Planning for Less Stress

Planning meals in advance saves time, money, and energy.

🍽 How to Make Meal Planning Easy:

• Plan 5-7 meals for the week (leave room for leftovers/takeout).
• Prep ingredients ahead of time (wash & chop veggies, marinate meat).
• Use easy meals (one-pan dinners, crockpot meals, sheet pan meals).

📌 Why It Works: Having a meal plan means fewer last-minute decisions and healthier eating habits for the whole family.

5. Set Boundaries Between Work & Family Time

Working parents often struggle with work-life balance. Set clear boundaries so work doesn’t take over your home life.

💻 Tips for Work-Life Balance:

• Have a designated work area to separate work from home life.
• Set a work cut-off time and stick to it.
• Be fully present with your kids—avoid checking emails during family time.

📌 Why It Works: Boundaries create a sense of separation, reducing stress and helping you feel more present in both roles.

6. Make Time for Self-Care

A balanced home isn’t just about routines—it’s about your well-being too! You can’t pour from an empty cup.

💆‍♀️ Ways to Prioritize Yourself Daily:

• Wake up 15 minutes earlier for quiet time.
• Listen to a podcast or music while cooking or driving.
• Take 5-minute deep breathing or meditation breaks.
• Set aside one evening a week for a self-care ritual (long bath, journaling, reading).

📌 Why It Works: Taking care of yourself helps you show up better for your family and responsibilities.

7. Stick to a Simple Evening & Bedtime Routine

A calming nighttime routine makes mornings easier and promotes better sleep for everyone.

🌙 Evening Wind-Down Routine:

• Tidy up common areas (5-10 min)
• Set out clothes & prep lunches for the next day
• Read, pray, or journal before bed
• Limit screens at least 30 minutes before sleep

📌 Why It Works: Ending the day with structure helps you feel organized, relaxed, and prepared for tomorrow.

A balanced home routine doesn’t mean doing everything perfectly—it means creating a structure that works for your family’s lifestyle. Start small, stay flexible, and adjust as needed.

✨ What’s one thing you’d like to implement in your home routine? Let me know in the comments! 💬💕

The Ultimate Easter Gift Guide 2025 – Thoughtful & Fun Ideas for Everyone!

Spring is in the air, and Easter is just around the corner! Whether you're putting together a basket for your kids, surprising a loved one, or treating yourself, finding the perfect Easter gift has never been easier. This guide features must-have Easter goodies from Amazon, from fashion to self-care and home décor. Let's make this Easter extra special! 🐰🌸✨

I am an Amazon and SHEIN affiliate and commision is earned from these purchases. 

Easter Basket Fillers for Kids

Surprise the little ones with adorable and fun treats! Here are some Easter basket must-haves:

• 🧸 Plush Bunny – A soft and cuddly Easter friend.

• 📚 Easter-Themed Storybook – Fun and engaging reads for bedtime.

• 🎨 Easter Egg Coloring Kit – Spark creativity with DIY egg decorating.

• 🍬 Sweet Treats – Pastel-colored candies and chocolate bunnies!

Faith-Based Easter Gifts

Celebrate the true meaning of Easter with thoughtful Christian gifts:

• 📖 Daily Devotional Journal – Start each day with inspiration.

• ✝️ Elegant Cross Necklace – A timeless keepsake.

• 🕊️ Adult Coloring Book – Soothing reflections on God's perfect plan.

Easter Self-Care & Beauty Picks

Easter isn’t just for the kids—treat yourself or a loved one to some self-care essentials:

• 🛁 Sol de Janeiro Jet Set – Relax and unwind with this trio of essentials.

• 💄 Laneige Lip Balm – Hydrate and glow this spring.

• 🕯️ Scented Candles – Fresh floral scents for a cozy vibe.

Spring Fashion & Accessories from SHEIN

Get into the Easter spirit with fresh spring styles:

• 👗 Floral Maxi Dress – Perfect for Easter brunch or a sunny day out.

• 👜 Pastel Handbag – A stylish addition to any wardrobe.

• 🕶️ Trendy Sunglasses – Stay stylish all spring long!

Easter Home & Kitchen Must-Haves

Bring the beauty of spring indoors with these Easter home essentials:

• 🌷 Spring Centerpiece – Brighten up your dining space.

• 🍽️ Bunny-Themed Tableware – Perfect for Easter brunch.

• 🍪 Baking Essentials – Whip up some festive Easter treats.

Final Thoughts Easter is a time for joy, renewal, and giving. Whether you're creating a festive basket, refreshing your home for spring, or finding a meaningful gift, this guide has you covered. Click the links to shop these handpicked items and make this Easter one to remember! 🐣💐

📌 Which Easter gift idea is your favorite? Let me know in the comments! 😊