Now that the chaos and busyness of the holiday season is over, the new year has us reflecting on our routines, daily habits and more so we can set ourselves up for success in the year ahead.
If your New Year's resolution is to slow down and carve out more "me" time throughout your day or week, you're in luck. Makho Ndlovu stopped by the 3rd Hour of TODAY to share some items that can help.
Whether it's treating yourself to a new pair of fuzzy slippers or enjoying a self-stirring cup of joe, these practical self-care items make for relaxing additions to any routine.
Seen on TODAY | More self-care essentials
Self-care essentials seen on TODAY
Aveeno Repairing Cica Hand Mask
Before bed, wind down with a self-care step that only takes 10 minutes. For smooth, soft and well-nourished hands, slide these gloves on for visible results after that timer turns off.
Made with oats and shea butter, both ingredients well-known for their soothing and smoothing capabilities, these fragrance-free gloves are drip-free as well, meaning you won't be stressing about a mess.
Automatic Stirring Coffee Mug
Eliminate time during your morning (or night) routine with this auto-stirring coffee mug. Whether you're mixing coffee and milk, blending together different tea bags, or protein shake powders, this mug does it all with just the push of a button.
This stainless steel mug also comes with a travel lid, making it easy to take while on-the-go. The brand also notes that this kitchen item should be hand washed only, as it's not dishwasher nor microwave safe.
Warmies Microwavable Slippers
If it's time to retire your pair of beloved fuzzy socks, upgrade to this pair that can be popped in the microwave for an hour's worth of warmth.
These faux-fur slippers promise to provide comfort, thanks to their lavender scent, memory-foam insole and "one-size-fits-most" features.
The Bouqs Flower Subscription
For fresh flowers on a weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or bi-monthly basis, treat yourself to a flower subscription that delivers on its promise of fresh, bountiful stems.
The Bouqs Co. offers three different-sized packages, that can be customized with your favorite flower combinations. Shipped from eco-friendly farms, the brand promises that they'll stay fresher for longer.
Even better? TODAY readers can get $20 off your first subscription delivery with the code TODAY20 now through Jan. 24.
Keenray Bucket Towel Warmer
There's very few things that invoke a feeling of extreme coziness more than wrapping yourself in a warm towel post-shower. Luckily, this towel warmer can give you exactly that. Not only does it heat up in a single minute, it also heats it up evenly (no cold spots!) so you'll be enveloped in perfect warmth each and every time.
More self-care essentials
If you’re looking for the tools that can help you get some much needed R&R, lifestyle expert Amy E. Goodman previously stopped by TODAY to reveal everything you need for a little bit of self-care. Whether you enjoy retail therapy or prefer to indulge in your skin care routine, keep scrolling to discover all of the self-care essentials worth considering.
Silicone Scalp Massager
TODAY editors love scalp massagers — not only because it feels like the ones you get at the salon, but because of the benefits it brings as well.
It helps hair last longer between washes, promote better scalp health and actually helps your hair grow by increasing blood flow and oxygen to hair follicles.
Tea Drops Party Pack
If you like to treat yourself to a hot cup of tea every now and then, these innovative tea drops can help to make the brewing process that much easier. Rather than using tea leaves and a bag, you can toss one of these drops in a hot cup of water and stir, then sip away.
Papier Wellness Journals
Journaling can help boost your mental health, experts told us. If you're ready to build the ritual into your morning routine, Papier makes journals that are just as aesthetically pleasing as they are functional. You'll find a spot to detail your thoughts, habits and check-ins to keep in tune with yourself.
Ostrich Pillow Hot & Cold Eye Mask
Another one of Goodman's picks that can help you relax is this hot and cold eye mask, which can help relieve eye strain, muscle tension and stress, according to the brand. The weighted eye mask is also filled with clay beads, which the brand says applies a gentle pressure and blocks out light.
Wishbeads Intention Bracelet
Need some help putting your goals into action? Wishbeads designs jewelry to help you keep your goals within reach, so you can work on achieving them. Once you write your intention on a special slip of paper, you can roll it up and place it inside the bracelet and wear it daily as a fashionable reminder.
Onsen Towels
Have you ever thought about the role your towels and sheets play when it comes to your mood? Goodman picked these lightweight towels that feel good in more ways than one: The waffle weave keeps it airy while the soft cotton retains its shape and feel over time.
Vanity Planet Outlines Facial Steamer
Not only does this steamer look pretty, Goodman says, but it actually works. It can be used as an at-home spa treatment to help give your skin a little bit of a glow and hydrates your skin by allowing the steam to seep into your pores.
Chronicle Books Mindfulness Cards
Goodman received these cards as a gift and says they are "amazing." She uses the deck of 50 cards with her kids to prompt them (and herself) to reflect more often. They're organized into four categories: Rest & Balance, Insight & Awareness, Curiosity & Joy and Kindness and offer an alternative to traditional journaling.
Ban.do Feeling Feelings Card Deck
To help support your emotional awareness and growth, Goodman says this deck is like a "toolbox for your feelings." The cards can start a healthy conversation that can benefit your mental well-being, but your purchase does some good, too — 50% of the net proceeds are donated to The Loveland Foundation, which helps bring opportunities and healing to communities of color.
