When it comes to going to the nail salon, I’m a pro (acrylics are my best friends). I absolutely love having my nails done. Something about it is relaxing, therapeutic even, and the results are always killer. 

But what about when you can’t get to the salon, either because of time or lack of funds? Are you gonna put your paws in jeopardy because of a little roadblock?! (The correct answer is always: NO.)

Today, I say paint your own nails! Turn your kitchen counter or dining room table into a nail salon. It doesn’t have to be super professional or neat–spread out, girl! Create some space for yourself to work in and allow a good chunk of time to focus on your beautiful hands that help you with so many things in life.

The physical act of doing your nails yourself can be very calming. Because it requires a fair level of concentration, people whose minds often race with negative or anxious thoughts can get a break while painting their nails. After all, if your entire mind is focused on painting juuuust up to the edge of your nail, without spilling over, it kinda doesn’t leave room for any other thoughts. Which can be nice after a long day or week of answering to other people and taking care of your kids and just generally trying to not go insane.

I’m not saying that painting your nails is a cure-all to anxiety or mental unrest, but it can be a brief, but meaningful, distraction from everything else that’s going on in your world. Plus, by the end of it, you’ll be more relaxed and have a killer new set of claws. A win-win in my book.

So, take a minute and check out some nail tutorials on YouTube, or try to remember how your nail technician normally does things. It doesn’t have to be perfect. That’s part of the fun–experimentation! Try out different shades and patterns, gems and textures. Whatever makes you feel powerful and beautiful and unique, girl. That’s the ticket.