Self-care can be defined as “The practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's own health. The practice of taking an active role in protecting one's own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress.” Over the past several years, “self-care” has become quite the buzzword, and rightfully so! However, I have found that people often seem to overcomplicate self-care, which makes it seem like an unachievable task. I frequently talk with my client’s about the beauty of adding “small” acts of self-care into their everyday routine, and challenge them to set aside a few minutes a day to do these things intentionally. I have seen decreased stress levels in my personal life and in the lives of those I work with when we are able to invest in things that fuel us. 

57 Types of Self-Care

1. Make routine physical/mental health appointments

2. Spend time in nature

3. Take time off when needed

4. Drink water

5. Check in with yourself and monitor for burnout 

6. Meditate

7. Gratitude Journal

8. Get a manicure or pedicure

9. Get your hair done 

10.  Have a meal or coffee with a friend 

11. Take your medication/vitamins

12.  Pray

13.  Meal prep

14.  Do healthy movement

15.  Take a bubble bath

16.  Eat nourishing meals

17.  Go for a walk

18.  Keep your living space clean

19.  Listen to a podcast

20.  Read a book

21.  Talk to a friend/family member

22.  Listen to your favorite music

23.  Do breathwork

24.  Do your skincare routine

25.  Get a few minutes of sunshine

26.  Visit coffee shops

27.  Take a day to schedule nothing

28.  Surround yourself with people that you feel safe/happy with

29.  Cook a home-cooked meal

30.  Put on make-up

31.  Write a letter

32.  Journal

33.  Learn something new

34.  Have a stay-cation

35.  Have a few moments of silence

36.  Join a community of like-minded people

37.  Play with your pet

38.  Play a game

39.  Paint

40.  Build or create something

41.  Keep a “sunshine folder” to reflect on positive memories or “wins”

42. Yoga

43. Take a nap

44. Go on a vacation 

45. Change out of work clothes when you get home

46.  Use positive affirmations

47. Take breaks throughout the day

48.  Coloring

49.  Take the dog for a walk

50.  Bake

51.  Have a treat

52.  Have a cup of warm tea

53.  Jiu Jitsu

54.  Get a tattoo

55.  Go for a drive

56.  Guided journaling

57.  Brush your hair

These are just a few examples of what self-care looks like. I encourage you to take a personal inventory of what fuels you and drains you. Then consider how you can add more opportunities to fuel your soul into your everyday life. Sometimes it may be standing in the sunshine, baking sourdough bread, talking to an old friend, or spending a few moments in silence. Do not be so quick to dismiss the small things, because several small things can grow into a beautiful garden of self-care practices. 

Consider partnering with myself or one of our other qualified clinicians to discover what a life of less stress and more self-care could look like for you!

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