60 Ways to Start Practicing Self-Care

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When life gets hard and stressful, the first thing to go is practicing self-care and all the activities we do to take care of ourselves. Spending long hours at work, projects are piling up, and you have overdue errands and tasks that need to be completed. What do you do?

You miss eating lunch, you postpone exercise, and you avoid any sort of social life because you don't have time for "fun". This is NOT okay. Never ditch practicing your self-care.

The most important relationship you have is with yourself

- Diane Von Furstenburg

What Is Self-Care?

Self-care is so much more than just cute bubble baths and nice scented lotions. Self-care is any activity that we do in order to take control of our health.

Spending time for, or with yourself, is NEVER selfish. It's crucial. To really succeed in life, you need to be happy with your life. Ensure you're giving yourself some time out of your day, week, or month, to do something for yourself. This is what creates a well-balanced life.

Although some forms of self-care are focused on relaxation, others can challenge us, connect us to ourselves and those around us, and help us grow.

Six Categories Of Self-Care

Let's categorize self-care into 6 major divisions known as emotional, practical, physical, mental, social, and spiritual. What does each of these categories mean? I found a great resource that provides an explanation of each and I'll list their definitions below.

Emotional self-care refers to any activity that helps you connect, process, and reflect on a full range of emotions.

Practical self-care consists of tasks you complete that fulfill core aspects of your life in order to prevent future stressful situations.

Physical self-care are activities you do that improve the well-being of your physical health.

Mental self-care is any activity that stimulates your mind or your intellect.

Social self-care are activities that nurture and deepen the relationships with people in your life. Brunch with friends, going on a date, making time to call your mom regularly, etc.

Spiritual self-care focuses on activities that nurture your spirit and allow you to think bigger than yourself.

After having an idea of the different forms of self-care, let's jump in to some great ideas to get you to start practicing self-care today!

60 Ways To Start Practicing Self-Care

#1 Practicing gratitude.

Practicing gratitude is a great way to shift your mindset from negative to positive. Gratitude helps us become more grateful. It allows us to see, and experience, more of the good things in life and to be grateful for the things we already have.

#2 Writing in a journal.

Writing in a journal is a great way to practice self-care. It provides so many benefits for those who are stressed or are dealing with anxiety or depression. I like to do 30-day journal challenges, I'm currently completing a 30-day gratitude challenge.

#3 Listening to your favorite songs.

Who doesn't love a good jam out session? Singing and getting your body moving to your favorite songs can easily help uplift your mood and make you feel so good.

#4 Watch a T.V show or movie.

Relaxation is so important. Cuddle on the couch and watch your favorite show or movies! Who doesn't love a good Harry Potter marathon here and there?

#5 Practice saying positive affirmations.

Affirmations help fill your life with positivity. Tell yourself who you are and what you are, these phrases can help boost confidence and assists you in visualizing exactly where you want to be now and in the future.

#6 Do a media detox.

I love a good detox. A detox helps you feel refreshed, and connect more to the physical world around you, rather than constantly being distracted by the portrayed version of life found on social media. A good detox helps get rid of unnecessary competitiveness, feeling of comparison, and helps us gain a lot more free time to place for our other self-care activities! I placed a 2-hour daily limit on all my social media apps and I choose a day out of the week where I'm not on social media.

#7 Become aware of your self-talk.

Similar to affirmations, negative talk does have an impact on your life. Be gentle and kind to yourself, because your self-talk has a huge impact on your emotions, attitude, and your mood. Mindset really is everything!

#8 Create a budget.

Creating a budget helps you stay on track, organized, and can lead you to your saving goals. Budgeting is overall super important and effective! Use some of your time to plan out your spending which can result in less stress and bad spending habits in your future.

#9 Talk to someone.

Sometimes when we are struggling with something in life, it's nice to have someone to talk about it with. It's important to understand when you should seek help and to take action. This is something I've started looking into. For years, I've dealt with out of the blue panic attacks. Sometimes just talking to someone, or a professional is how you can start understanding yourself better and really taking care of yourself.

#10 Take online courses that interest you and challenge your mind.

You can learn so much online nowadays. Take some time and learn a new hobby or anything that interests you! Expanding your skills and knowledge is super beneficial. There are many free resources out there. I started with Alison.com which provides free online courses, as well as Shaw Academy. I also subscribe to nutritionists, coaches, and any expert in fields I find interesting on YouTube or their blogs/websites.

#11 Organize an area in your home.

An organized space makes me feel super accomplished and satisfied. I love a clean home. The less of a mess I see, the less of a mess I have to worry about.

#12 De-clutter your space and consider minimalism.

The less stuff you have, the less stuff you are putting away, worrying about, and cleaning. I love the idea of minimalism, and in the near future, I'd like to explore a minimalistic lifestyle. If anyone has any tips for beginners let me know!

#13 Simplify your schedules.

Having an entire day without a gigantic to-do list can really help your mind and body to relax. Sometimes we get carried away easily working on projects, work, and other things going on in our lives, I do this A LOT.

#14 Use a planner to keep organized.

Planners are really enjoyable for me. I love writing, planning out my days, and filling out my monthly calendar spreads. Sometimes it can help relax my mind writing everything down rather than keeping all of the information in my head. Plus, if I ever feel stressed out about a heavy bearing schedule, writing it out helps me plan and have better time management, which reduces my stress.

#15 Go for a walk or run.

I go for a walk pretty much every day with my dogs, to make sure we both enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. Walking can be extremely relaxing, especially walking just before the sunsets and then taking a rest spot to enjoy it.

#16 Make time to stretch.

Stretching is now apart of my morning routine. Stretching your body after a long sleep feels so good. I also have been getting into yoga more so the stretching really helps when I try to work on a new pose.

#17 Get a massage or give yourself one.

Honestly, a massage can feel so amazing. Enjoy some relaxation time and treat yourself, or you can always get your partner/friends to work.

#18 Go to the gym or workout at home.

Exercising is a great form of self-care. Taking care of your body is so important. Plus, a great workout can make you feel so amazing! Some research and articles discuss how exercise helps to boost your mood as well.

#19 Sign up for new classes like yoga or spin.

Trying new things can be exciting and challenging. Join a new sport or class, whether you start by yourself or with others! Another great benefit of joining a class is that you can meet new people interested in the same activities as you!

#20 Eat a healthy snack.

I love finding healthy substitutes for recipes I love. Cooking can be super fun for me, and I also do love to eat so this is a fun way to explore new ideas and maintain healthy nutrition. My favorite substitute currently is replacing sour cream with plain greek yogurt!

#21 Cook from home more often.

I can't express how much I love making things from scratch at home. I feel much better when I'm eating something that I made rather than eating other foods unsure of their ingredients. Plus, cooking or baking can be really relaxing and fun.

#22 Volunteer.

Volunteering is something I want to get more involved in. I think giving back to your community and/or helping others is such a great thing to do. I think it speaks volumes when you are participating in things that you support.

#23 Take a shower or bath.

Of course, I had to include a bath in here, who doesn't love baths? I know baths and showers are one of the most common forms of self-care people list, but I am to because it really does help relax you. Has anyone ever tried cold showers? I actually have, I started out with a warm shower and then I'd rinse off turning the heat down a bit and I actually love it! Cold showers are great for circulation, helps fight off common illnesses, calming itchy skin, and is also a great way to wake you up!

#24 Get a manicure or pedicure.

I usually never do my own nails or get my nails done. When I do my nails it's usually because I'm in the mood for a good relaxing routine. If you don't like nail polish, even just treating your hands and feet to a good massage, exfoliant, and lotion can do the trick!

#25 Practice deep breathing.

I should probably start working on some deep breathing exercises more often. I've heard of it helping you relax, especially if you are feeling anxious or panicky.

#26 Use a face, body, or hair mask.

When you're done painting your nails continue on and pamper the rest of your body! I love using masks, they make me feel so good, relaxed, and sometimes a little extra special haha.

#27 Take a nap.

Speaking of a nap, I could for one right now... Naps help us restore our bodies and can make you feel better if you're feeling off, or have a lack of energy! In my post "7 Tips That Helped Me in Becoming a Morning Person", I mentioned how a 90-minute nap between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m will help boost creativity as well as emotional and procedural memory.

#28 Drink tea.

I love my tea! Sometimes just sitting outside, enjoying the nice weather (unless it's -30 then you'd find me wrapped in a blanket like a burrito on the couch), can be extremely relaxing! It's so nice to just have quiet time to just think and reflect with a nice warm drink.

#29 Get some sun.

Get some of that vitamin D! Read a book outside, go for a walk/run, enjoy the beautiful weather when you can! Just make sure to protect your skin from the sun and wear some sunscreen!

#30 Give a stranger a compliment.

I can't describe how many times a stranger has made me feel so happy by simply saying they liked my hair, or my outfit, or said I looked nice. I feel even better when I know that I made someone else just as happy.

#31 Create a nourishing environment.

I'm a strong believer in creating an environment that represents the life you want to live. If you want to read more then leave more books around. If you HATE clutter, consider minimalism, and change your shopping habits. Our environments play a huge role in developing habits and achieving your goals!

#32 Make a puzzle.

Puzzles are so fun for me! I have so many Harry Potter puzzles (2D, 3D, and 4D)! I also have this puzzle roll up matt, which is such a lifesaver for times when I can't finish a puzzle but need to put it away!

#33 Draw or paint something.

Drawing or even coloring in a color book can be extremely relaxing! I love drawing and painting whenever I get the chance and I'm in the mood to.

#34 Read more books.

Reading is not only relaxing, but it can also be really educational because you can learn so much! I love reading self-help books and topics like mindset, lifestyles, anxiety, money, and business!

#35 Have a board game night.

Cards and game nights are so incredibly fun! Invite some friends or family over and enjoy a night full of games and laughs!

#36 Listen to more podcasts/audiobooks.

My favorite thing about listening to a podcast/audiobook is that I can listen while I perform another task like cooking, baking, cleaning, etc.

#37 DIY things.

DIY's can be really fun! You can make organizational items, furniture, or even face masks, hair masks, lotions, etc. I think it's a cool way to get creative. Plus, if your products turn out good, you could sell them to others as a side hustle.

#38 Create habits and routines.

I think there is always room to grow. I love the idea of developing healthy habits, and building routines that make you happy, productive, and help you accomplish your goals.

#39 Do something out of your comfort zone.

Sometimes doing something out of our comfort zones is really important. Whether it's overcoming a fear, trying a new sport, or doing something you've always wanted to try but doubt got to you. Our comfort zone is easy, and it's what we know, which is what makes the "unknown" or "new things" scary. But you can learn so much about yourself, pick up new hobbies, make new friends, and so much more! As I mentioned, there is always room to grow. Starting this blog for example as something that was one-day WAYYY out of my comfort zone, but I really love it now that I made that jump!

#40 Join or start, a book club.

Book clubs sound so much fun! I have never been apart of one but I do think it's a great way to stay connected with others, meet new people, and explore new books and topics that can provide you with more knowledge!

#41 Work outside of your home.

I find changing your work environment can really change your mood about working and can also improve your productiveness. Going to a coffee shop, or your favorite cafe, can really make a difference, and sometimes I find that I feel more inspired, motivated and I work a lot faster!

#42 Take Vitamins.

Vitamins and minerals are considered essential nutrients because they have a variety of functions within our bodies. There are water-soluble vitamins, which are your Vitamin B's and Vitamin C which helps release energy, produce energy, build proteins and cells as well as make collagen. Then we have fat-soluble (Vitamin A, D, E, K), which help build bones, protect vision, and protect our bodies.

#43 Learn something new everyday.

Being able to learn every single day is an amazing opportunity, so take advantage of it! Learn about anything you think is interesting. I love learning about nutrition, physical education, blogging, social media, marketing, human resources, and the list goes on!

#44 Set daily goals.

I love using my planner! I think staying on track, setting goals, and always challenging yourself to grow is super important and a great form of self-care.

#45 Get enough consistent sleep.

Start treating sleep like self-care, and it will change everything! Sleep is super important! I, myself, have considered myself a night owl. But I realized that our bodies are made to rest. Going to bed earlier has honestly made my mornings so enjoyable and has to lead me to wonderful benefits that I discuss in my blog post "8 Reasons to Start Waking Up Earlier". However, I do enjoy sleeping in on some days. It's nice to just slow down.

#46 Practice meditation.

I use to HATE meditation because I felt like I was doing it wrong. I would sit there quietly with my eyes closed, but my mind would wander endlessly! What I've learned, is that there was nothing wrong with my techniques, just my expectations. What I started to like about meditation was that even if I felt like I was fighting with my thoughts, this point in time was controlled only by me. There are a lot of known benefits of meditation such as promoting emotional health and well-being, providing stress relief, increases attention span, and the list goes on. Give it a try, you just might love it!

#47 Write lists.

I'm a list lover. I love making lists so so much! I do find it relaxing, but it also works as a great brain dump so you aren't always trying to remember things. It could be a to-do list, a list of new shows you want to watch, your wish list, anything you can think of! Which is what makes list-making so much fun and relatable.

#48 Plan dates with family/friends/partners.

I love setting up cute little dates! Something different than your "typical" hangout can really spice up your relationships! Whether it's a picnic in the park, setting up a yoga session, camping, a long walk, having a board game night, literally anything!

#49 Connect with a friend.

Life can get super busy and I notice I get extremely carried away in my projects and goals. In the past, I've noticed I get so occupied that I forget to reach out to my family and friends. I've been trying to become more involved with the relationships I have in my life! I do think it is really important.

#50 Tell/show someone you love and appreciate them.

Life is too short. ALWAYS tell the people in your life you love them and how much they mean to you. Listening, supporting, acknowledging, and believing in those around you can help you build strong and healthy relationships in your life. I recommend reading the book The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman, it's a quick and easy read and extremely informative on love and marriage!

#51 Write down 3 things you are proud of accomplishing.

Sometimes, we get lost in the world of social media and comparison. Writing out goals you are proud of accomplishing so far in your life can be a really great way to reflect, and feel good about where you are in life.

#52 Play a sport.

Get together with some friends, family, or join a team yourself! Whether you play competitively or for fun! Sports are great exercise and also a great way to meet new people.

#53 Make your bed every morning.

Making your bed every morning helps you start off every day right. It also creates the habit of cleaning up your space and cleaning up after yourself. Making my bed is only one of my favorite habits I mentioned in my blog post "8 Productive Morning Habits to Change Your Life".

#54 Send a postcard or letter to those who live far away.

There is something amazing about connecting and communicating with others without using social media! I think it could really brighten someone's day!

#55 Drink lots of water.

You should be drinking water every day. It is incredibly important for your health! Read my "15 Easy Ways to Drink More Water" post if you're looking for some ways to increase your daily intake of water. Even being a water lover myself, I sometimes get side-tracked and don't drink enough water! Super important, so get drinking!! I made a recent purchase on these stainless steel straws, and they are amazing, no medal taste at all!

#56 Make a vision board.

Vision boards can be really fun to make! If you love photos, then this is such a great project to do. I like to gather photos and quotes from my Pinterest and place them into a "vision board" that I created and left on private. However, I have seen some beautifully put together vision boards before. I think it's a really fun way to hang out with yourself.

#57 Spend a full day outdoors.

Go camping, go on a hike, enjoy a run, have a picnic outdoors! Being outside (especially during the spring and summer seasons) can make you feel so good! I love getting fresh air and some sun. I've always been an outdoors gal!

#58 Spend a night bingeing Netflix.

Who doesn't love a good cuddle on the couch? Yes, even when you're alone. Watching your favorite movies, shows, or anything that you desire! This can be very relaxing as you unwind, and rest your body and mind from a busy day.

#59 Cook dinner for/with your loved ones.

Cooking a meal can be super fun! Learning new recipes and providing a yummy meal for your friends, family, or partner is incredibly kind and helpful. Plus, you can also learn some cooking skills as well.

#60 Take yourself out on a date.

Learn to enjoy spending time alone. Bring yourself out on dates and enjoy a meal or some good coffee. Learning how to enjoy being alone can really change your life. This is one of the ways I am starting to practice self-care!

I could continue to list a million activities that you could start practicing some self-care. If you love it, if it makes you feel good, if it strengthens your mind, add it to your schedule. We should always be making time for things that keep us content and challenges us. That way we can continue to learn and grow.

How are you all practicing self-care? Let me know down below!