Reading Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips: Choosing Nourishing Self-Care in a Quick-Fix Culture by Amber Wardell made me reflect on a simple, personal ritual I’ve adopted that adds both creativity and comfort to my daily life. In the book, the author talks about how she used to put out placemats and tablecloths after every meal but stopped when life with young children made it feel overwhelming. Her story resonated with me, though for opposite reasons from what she stated. I no longer have a small child at home (mine is now a working young adult!). So I have embraced the idea of having the tablecloth and placemats out. For me, it has become a form of self-care that enhances my sense of well-being—though I’ve adapted it in a way that works best for my lifestyle.

Like the author, I realized that if a ritual becomes too cumbersome, it’s no longer self-care. That’s why I typically use either a vinyl tablecloth or placemats in my tablescapes. Vinyl is easy to wipe down after meals, and placemats are quick to clean up, making it a sustainable practice for me. I still get to enjoy the creative expression of decorating my table, but without the stress of constantly maintaining something too delicate or hard to clean. We are busy living life in our home, so if it prevents us from doing that, then it is not worth it!

Inspired by Creativity and Tradition

The idea of keeping a well-set table came to me from a couple of places. First, TV cook Sandra Lee, who is known for her “tablescapes,” introduced me to the idea of creating a visually appealing dining area as a way to celebrate life’s moments. My mother-in-law, who always had themed linens laid out on her table, was another source of inspiration. Seeing how she transformed her home with the seasons left a lasting impression on me.

Now, I find joy in setting out themed tablecloths and placemats, switching them up with the seasons or for specific events. It’s not just about having a nice setting for meals—it’s about the creativity involved in designing these small spaces. And though it’s a simple act, it feels like a mindful way to care for my home and, in turn, for myself.

A Ritual That Fits My Life Today

Unlike the author in Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips, who needed to let go of this ritual during a busy season of life, I’m in a different place now. My home is quieter, and the mess and chaos of having a young child at home have given way to a different kind of pace. This allows me the time and mental space to embrace this practice. I’ve found that creating these small, intentional moments is a way to foster a sense of calm and creativity in my day-to-day life.

I will be the first to admit that it is not Instagram worthy. Who really has time for that? By keeping it simple—using easy-to-clean materials like vinyl—I’ve made sure that this ritual works for me without becoming another source of stress. And that’s key: finding a version of the ritual that fits into your life.

Hygge and the Joy of Creating

I also connect this ritual to the Danish concept of Hygge, which emphasizes creating a cozy, warm atmosphere that promotes well-being. For me, this isn’t about having a Pinterest-perfect table. Instead, it’s about creating a sense of peace and joy through the simple act of decorating. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—just a few thoughtful touches can make a big difference in how a space feels.

Laying out a vinyl tablecloth and placemats, perhaps adding a seasonal centerpiece, brings a feeling of creativity into my home. It’s a small way to acknowledge the passing seasons, celebrate everyday life, and invite comfort into my surroundings.

Small Acts, Big Impact

By decorating my table, I’ve found a way to make each meal feel a little more special, and it’s a reminder to slow down and appreciate the present moment. This practice of decorating isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about making space for creativity and mindfulness, which in itself is a powerful form of self-care. It’s a small act, but it makes a big impact on my emotional well-being.

Finding Your Own Rituals

Ultimately, what works for me may not work for everyone. The key to self-care is identifying the rituals that fit your lifestyle and bring you peace. Whether it’s creating a beautifully set table, lighting candles, or simply taking a moment to pause before a meal, the important thing is finding what feels right for you.

If you’re looking for inspiration, here are a few resources that have helped shape my practice:

• Sandra Lee’s Semi-Homemade: Ideas for creating simple yet beautiful tablescapes.
• The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking: Learn more about creating a cozy atmosphere at home.
• Pinterest: A treasure trove of seasonal and creative decorating ideas. You can find some of my favorite inspirations on my Pinterest boards.

The beauty of self-care is that it’s deeply personal, so I encourage you to explore and experiment with what brings you joy and peace in your own home. Decorating might seem like a small thing, but to me, it is not “self-care potato chips” if it does have a lasting impact on your life. Find ways to celebrate the everyday and enjoy life!

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Has anyone else found a small, creative ritual that helps bring peace to their daily lives? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!