The term “self-care” is certainly trendy on social media (I looked–#selfcare is currently at over 55 billion views on TikTok), but the idea of caring for your mind and body is not a trend; it’s a life long process. I do think it’s important to call out that self-care looks different for everyone. What makes me feel really good may not be relaxing to you, and your idea for relaxing might make me feel anxious. The great thing about self-care methods is that there is no shortage of options (just jump on Google), and (even more good news), true self-care doesn’t come with a price tag (expensive trips to the spa may feel luxurious and make your skin glow, but they’re not necessary for taking care of yourself on a daily basis).
To help us all add a little self-care into our lives without breaking the bank in the new year, I jotted down some of the creative practices I’m going to incorporate in case anyone else was looking for inspiration. Take a peek below for 10 self-care practices you can start this week—and not one of them requires your credit card.
1. Start a daily journaling practice
There are so many great options when it comes to a daily journal with prompts, affirmations, and quotes. Start Today and the Happy Planner are two brands I personally love and highly recommend. However, it can be just as impactful to simply put pen to paper on your own. If you want a list of new prompts to spice up your regular journal routine, search “Journal Prompts” on Pinterest. You can also care for your past self by writing a letter to your inner child, or care for your future self by writing goals you want to accomplish this year. I also love a good bullet journal entry for the days that I only have a couple minutes to write. No matter what journal method works best for you, set aside a few minutes at the start or end of your day to do a “session” and release those emotions, ideas, and dreams that may otherwise stay locked in your head.
2. Create a daily gratitude practice
This practice has fundamentally changed my life. By practicing gratitude you set yourself up to manifesting more good things in your life. It’s an extremely beneficial method of self-care that costs absolutely nothing. Start small by simply listing out 3-5 different things that you’re grateful for each day. But don’t just scribble out the basics–of course, you’re grateful for friends, family, health, pets, etc., but what small, tiny, impactful thing is it that you’re grateful about them today? Your friend making you laugh so hard you peed your pants, that your mom dropped off a surprise loaf of your favorite cinnamon bread, how the sunset looked when you took your dog out for a walk? Taking the time out of your day to look for tiny details to appreciate about your life opens your eyes up to all of the beautiful, magical, and impactful moments. The more gratitude you practice, the more you will find to be grateful for.
3. Go for a walk (with or without headphones)
For me, walks are life giving. Granted, I do have to wait until the temps drop here in Texas to actually be able to step outside but that being said–I love walks. I started really getting into walks during Covid and the practice just stuck. I take this time to be by myself (or I take Jack!)—without any scrolling—so I can tune into my thoughts and feelings. I also love putting on a good podcast–currently into The Genius Life and Good Morning, Monster. Walking is one of the healthiest activities you can do, and getting outside is healing, making a daily walk an activity good for your mood, energy, and body. You may be surprised by the mental clarity you get when you take just 5-10 minutes to unplug, get outside, soak up some Vitamin D, and move your body.
4. Make a date with a friend who always lifts your mood
Is there someone in your life who always seems to know what to say to make you feel better? Or maybe they always make you laugh, even when you’re in a bad mood? Sometimes the best form of self-care is knowing that you need a friend. Don’t take those friendships for granted, and don’t hesitate to lean on the people in your life when you need them. Set aside some time in your busy week to connect with a friend, family member, or coworker who will lift your mood. Bonus: Taking this time for yourself will help you be that person for someone else too.
5. Write a list of your accomplishments and goals
Why don’t we do this more often? You already know that goal setting is so important, but so is actually acknowledging what you’ve already achieved. If you are like me (hello overachieving goal hitting Enneagram 3) then you hit one goal and move onto the very next one. If you are ever feeling down about something in your life or you’re comparing yourself to other people, take a moment to list out everything you have accomplished—both big and small. Hold onto that list to come back to the next time you’re questioning yourself, feeling stuck, or just need a dose of motivation. Let’s all celebrate our wins a little more.
6. Dive into a book, movie, or TV show that makes you feel good
Did you spend your Sunday lounging in front of the TV watching old rom-coms and then feeling guilty about your lack of productivity? Drop the guilt! TV binging totally counts as self-care. Losing yourself in a feel-good show or movie can be a great way to turn off for a bit and recharge. For me, books are the ultimate self-care because it is one thing I know I won’t be multitasking (AKA, scrolling, cooking, doing laundry, or trying to plan out my week) during. Carving out intentional time to relax and read is key for me at the end of the day.
7. Stretch your legs up the wall
I do this for at least 10 minutes a day, every day, without fail–especially since I’ve stepped into a new role at work and I’m standing on my feet for 8+ hours a day. Legs-up-the-wall is one of the simplest yoga poses and is considered a restorative yoga posture that offers many benefits. It can help the body relax, reduce stress, improve circulation, and reduce swelling. To try for yourself, lie flat on your back with your legs stretched straight up the wall, set your timer for 10-20 minutes, and simply relax. Try a guided meditation, listen to a podcast, or even read your favorite book while letting your body be still.
8. Meditate
I know that this might sound a bit woo-woo to a lot of people. But honestly, this is one of those self-care practices that looks different for everyone. I personally prefer on some days an active meditation–walking while listening to a guided meditation, but many people prefer to do their meditations sitting or lying down, reading or journaling, or without any music or prompts at all. No matter your meditation form of choice, there are many free apps and prompts you can download to start your meditation practice. Even just a few minutes a day can be extremely beneficial in relieving stress. Still on the fence? Think about meditation like a strategy session with yourself. Carve out the time to think about what you want to accomplish, what things you want to change, or what traits your future self embodies.
9. Clean up your space
Recently, I changed roles at work, Callie started school and archery practice, and I’ve had multiple writing assignments due so our house has fallen to shambles. As a result, I noticed that I started having trouble sleeping and felt more anxious during the evening. Once I prioritized a cleaning session one weekend and got things straightened up, my sleeping patterns went back to normal and I felt my anxiety dissipate. Coincidence? Perhaps, but clutter in your space directly correlates to clutter in the mind. The cleanliness of your home really does impact your headspace, and you should always aim to keep your home looking like the safe haven it should be for you. Take 15 minutes before bed to put away laundry, wipe off counters, and do the dishes.
10. Do a social media detox
Yes, social media can be a great place to discover new people, brands, and products or to stay connected with friends and family. But we also can unintentionally absorb negative content or get caught in comparison traps. Take time to regularly go through your accounts and mute or unfollow anyone whose energy does not serve you. Your goal should be to make social media a place that provides you with joy and inspiration rather than comparison and negativity.
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