Umgowo is real, and when the world feels chaotic and lonely, we try remind ourselves what truly matters in life—our well-being, creativity, a roof over our head and the connections we foster. Especially in the digital world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle, losing sight of the importance of living fully in the real world. To help you navigate these challenging times, we’re sharing 10 self-care tips to keep in your arsenal for when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Bite into our stress-reducing tips below and make them your own:

Make a “pick yourself up” playlist

You can curate a playlist with songs that calm you down, help you meditate, or simply remind you of happy memories to relax you. Once your playlist is set, listen to it during a walk, in the car, when you’re trying to clear your mind before bed, or anytime you’re feeling stressed. Music is more than just entertainment; it’s a powerful form of therapy. Studies show that music can calm the nervous system, lower blood pressure, and even reduce anxiety. And you know we’re pro-music here at OCZA—it heals, motivates, and is one of the best stress relievers out there. So, vibe out and let the music work its magic.

Journal Your thoughts

Before you write off journaling as “not for me,” consider easing into the idea by simply jotting down three things each day (or even each week) that you’re grateful for. When I was going through a tough time, an ex-girlfriend and I were exchanging gift registries. I didn’t want anything—nothing seemed to help. But I remember specifically asking for a journal, and she gifted me one. That simple gesture helped me reconnect with myself, reignite my passion for writing, and spark new ideas and creativity.

Journaling doesn’t mean you have to pen a novel. Keep it simple—whether it’s in a note on your phone or the old-school way with an actual journal. Not only will you feel a sense of relief from getting your thoughts and feelings out, but on days when you need a pick-me-up, you can look back at your older entries. They’ll remind you that whatever you’re going through will pass, and brighter days are ahead.

Soak in a bath or have a shower

In many African cultures, cleansing rituals are often deeply connected to spiritual well-being. Many believe that immersing yourself in water can help to wash away negative energy, restore balance, and refresh your spirit. Whether you’re soaking in a bath or letting the steam envelop you in the shower, this self-care practice can be a powerful way to rejuvenate both body and soul, allowing you to return to your creative endeavours with renewed clarity and energy.

But don’t be boring, make it romantic and glamourise it, maybe a candle here and there, a bath bomb if you may and of course, your playlist setting the mood in the background.

Be of service to someone else

When you’re feeling down, helping others can be a simple and effective way to shift your mood. This could mean donating time or resources, or even just checking in with friends and family to offer support. After my depression diagnosis in 2021, I moved back home and quit my job to focus on myself. Instead of dwelling on my own issues, I found joy in assisting those around me—whether it was getting my niece and nephew ready for school, cooking meals for my family, or helping a neighbour. These acts of kindness helped me worry less about my own problems and see beyond them.

Helping others not only boosts your mood but also strengthens your connections and offers a fresh perspective. By focusing on the needs of others, I found a renewed sense of purpose and community, which greatly eased my stress.

Enjoy a guided meditation

A few minutes of meditation each day can help restore your inner peace and reduce stress. Our Head of Talent and Imagination, as well as in-house wellness guru and mom, Jayn, has curated a soothing guided meditation playlist for beginners. You can also use your favourite meditation app. You can practice meditation at any time—whether alone in your room or while on a calming nature walk. Meditation is known to lower stress, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being, making it a powerful tool for finding calm amidst the chaos.

Save Uplifting memories or quotes in your notes or gallery

Take a walk or stretch it out

Sometimes, I know that going outside for a walk can feel like a stretch—pun intended! But incorporating a little movement into your day can make a big difference. Stretching is fantastic for improving posture, easing muscle tension, and helping you relax. Just 5-10 minutes of stretching, whether first thing in the morning or while winding down in the evening between commercial breaks, can help you feel more grounded and refreshed, making it easier to handle whatever comes your way.

Plan your days ahead and have something to look forward to

I can be quite anxious, and even deciding what to have for supper can sometimes be overwhelming—my mom often steps in to help with that! So, planning ahead really helps bring a sense of order and some excitement to my little life. Whether it’s preparing your favourite meal, scheduling a fun outing with friends, or planning a relaxing weekend getaway, even a young Airbnb staycation in your local town—having something to look forward to can uplift your spirits. By marking these moments on your calendar, you create anticipation and excitement, making everyday stress feel a little more manageable.