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Venus Williamsis not just a tennis star.
Im doing a bit of everything, she admits over the phone.
Honestly, my younger self had it, Williams tells SELF of her more restful days of yore.
Ive always been that way.
So younger me is very much in tune with older me.
Williams resides in Florida with her needy dog, Harry.
Shes been lying somewhat low, taking extra precautions surrounding COVID-19.
Still, theres plenty to keep her busy, which is why her downtime is so important.
Sleep is pretty importantit can make or break you if you have an autoimmune disease, she says.
So sleep was always nonnegotiable for me, but its even more so now.
My favorite is to have a big glass of water with lemon.
I useHappy Viking protein, typically chocolate.
Theres a lot of pressureif I dont give him a snack, he keeps dancing.
If I want any peace, I have to give him a snack.
Taking care of my face is a must, especially now that Im 41.
Its unrealistic, but Im convinced I can do it.
hey cheer me on for these next 40 years.
And then I use an exfoliating serum fromLiving Libations.
Its made with green papaya and lime.
I quite like the serumI really feel like it works.
The next day my skin is brighter.
I useAsutra Melt Body Butterwith lavender because the lavender is so soothing.
Then I also use theAsutra lavender body oil.
And for the last step, because Im African American, I usecastor oilon my hair.
Im definitely picky about my beauty routines.
So that is my makeuphaving really nice skinbecause then you dont really need as much.
You just put some lashes on and go.
I try not to compromise on that part.
I dont spend much time in my bedroom except for sleep.
Sometimes Ill read, but usually not in bedusually Im just in another room watching TV.
And then when I go to bed, I go to bed.
I use mylavender spray by Asutrato spray the room or my pillowor even spray myself.
If I cant fall asleep, then Ill take something oral.
My favorite go-to is by Beam, and they make eithercapsulesor acocoa mix.
you might mix it up and have a hot chocolate if you want to.
That definitely puts me to sleep.
I make a run at go to bed around 11 p.m., but it doesnt always happen.
Im like, I don’t want to go!
So yeah, that part is annoying, but its very necessary because you feel ready to play.
For rehab, I use Normatec compression boots, but more so when I have injuries.
So I travel with those as I need to, and compression machines for ice too.
Because it does make a big difference.
I definitely set boundaries, and thats even around my sleep, too.
I think a big part of wellness, or taking care of yourself, is setting boundaries.
Like, Well, I got to sleep, catch you later.
Its the most empowering, wonderful thing.
This interview has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.
