Originally published on July 28, 2020 | Last updated on February 9, 2024
When life gets busy or times are rough, it can be way too easy to forget self-care. However, that’s when you need it more than ever. Ignoring self-care will only lead to stress, burnout and fatigue. It’s so important to remember to slow down, breathe and take care of YOU. In today’s post, I’m sharing 9 simple self-care ideas that you can start doing today:
Exercise
Exercise helps boost and support the immune system. Not only is it great for physical health, but it’s an amazing tool for managing stress too. Whether you go for a walk, carry out some stretches or lift some weights, exercise will get those feel-good endorphins pumping and elevate your mood.
Eat Healthily
Nourishing your body with healthy food is another form of self-care. Incorporating colourful veggies, whole grains, and fruits into your diet improves your mood, boosts your energy levels and enables your body to function at its best. You’ll be able to notice a huge difference when you eat healthy options regularly.
Go for a Walk
Although it may seem simple, going for a walk is a great way to clear your mind and improve your mood. You could go for a morning walk around the block or go to the park for a more scenic stroll. I don’t know about you, but I feel a lot more refreshed after getting some fresh air.
Read a Book
Reading gives you the opportunity to unplug and dive into other worlds, whether real or imaginary. Studies have shown that reading cuts stress, boosts brain function and relaxes the mind. It’s definitely one of my favourite self-care activities!
Get Creative
Getting creative is an excellent form of self-care. Not only is embracing creativity fun, but it also benefits your brain health and physical health. Perhaps, you could paint or draw, start a crochet project, or make one of the many home decor DIYs saved to your Pinterest.
Pamper Yourself
Why not create a home spa in your bathroom? Run yourself a bubble bath, light a scented candle, play soft music and just relax and unwind. You could put on your favourite face mask or make some of your own DIY beauty products instead. So relaxing!
Write It Down
Journal writing is a very calming activity that is very easy to work into your daily routine. You could write a list of anything that made you smile that day, pen down your favourite inspirational quotes or simply release your thoughts with a “brain dump.”
Reflect
Getting time alone to recharge, pause and reflect is very important. Finding the time to reflect allows you to better understand yourself, see your progress and figure out what you need to work on. I personally find it incredibly beneficial and would recommend it to everyone.
Sleep
Sleep is important for both physical and mental health. A full night’s sleep can greatly improve your mood and set you up for a good, productive day. It’s important to stick to the same sleep schedule every night— yes, even on the weekends!
These are just some of the ways you can practise self-care. Do you know of any other simple self-care ideas? Leave your suggestions in the comments!
I walk every day, it makes such a difference to my mental and physical health. Sleep is so important too and looking after your mental well being
I’m the same – getting fresh air makes such a huge difference!
A lovely post of some simple yet effective self-care ideas. Exercising definitely helps my mood and as a gut health blogger, I definitely notice how food affects my wellbeing. I also find colouring a really relaxing activity too.
Gemma x
https://www.thegutchoice.com
Thank you! I’ve been wanting to try an adult colouring-in book — seems like a great way to unwind.
Thank you for the reminder as I’m terrible for self care – it’s always about everyone else. Getting out in the fresh air does wonders for my mental health and I think the weather plays a big part in it too. I need sunshine.
I agree that the weather can make a big difference. I know I definitely feel a lot happier when the sun is shining!
Hi telina
I love your post .
You have given me a new idea ,of while I am relaxing in the bath ,I could be drinking a cup of coffee or a cup of tea .
And I could be reading something nice
And also try to exercise a few times a week to make my body healthy.
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