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Let’s dive into the essential self-care practices that help you unwind and rejuvenate. What are your go-to methods for indulging in self-care when life gets hectic? When you’re striving to be kind to yourself during tough times, what activities do you engage in? Do your self-care rituals differ from the concept of “airport rules” that emerge during long travel days or high-stress work periods?

I came across a humorous post on social media that highlighted how, with the upcoming election, the next 24 hours could be considered “airport rules.” The idea was that during this period, both calories and finances are irrelevant, and it playfully suggested that starting to drink at 10 AM would raise no eyebrows. This perspective shines a light on the often chaotic, liberating mindset associated with travel and stress.

(Just to clarify, I definitely do not recommend the practice of drinking at 10 AM while at work!)

It’s a running joke among my friends when we discuss “airport rules,” particularly when traveling with children. The notion that all forms of screen time are permissible while at the airport is an amusing twist on our usual parenting standards, isn’t it? It’s as if the airport transforms into a sanctuary where typical rules can be bent or broken for the sake of convenience and sanity.

For me, the concept of being gentle with myself and the idea of “airport rules” can represent two different approaches to self-care. When I prioritize self-compassion, I might opt for a soothing yoga session instead of a high-intensity workout, or perhaps engage in gentle stretching or treat myself to a relaxing massage. My meal choices tend to lean towards those that are nutritious yet still enjoyable, even if they are simple or repetitive. I often find comfort in rereading a beloved book.

Conversely, when I think of “airport rules,” I embrace the idea that calories and money are of no concern. In that context, it feels perfectly acceptable to indulge in a drink at any hour. However, I often find myself gravitating towards greasy, sugary snacks at the airport, which starkly contrasts my usual choices when I’m in a more self-care-focused mindset, where I might splurge on a healthy $25 salad instead.

Reflecting on my younger years, I realize that the distinction between these two approaches wasn’t always clear. I vividly remember making a late-night drive through McDonald’s before taking the LSAT, treating myself to a hearty bacon and egg sandwich, and enduring a stressful work phase where I frequently indulged in candy for breakfast—specifically, Hi-Chews, which were my guilty pleasure during that time.

What about you, dear readers? Do you resonate with the concept of “airport rules,” and do they align with or differ from your own self-care practices? Have your views on the interplay between these two concepts evolved over the years?

Stock photo via Stencil.