How to practice self-care is different for each person and can be different from day to day. An act of self-care for one person could actually be triggering for someone else. The important part is to find a balance of activities that work for you.
Here are some ideas on ways to get started, and don’t forget that you can also combine these activities.
Build a Healthy Foundation
1. Get enough sleep and do your best to keep a consistent sleep schedule
2. Eat a balanced diet and include fruits and vegetables
3. Remember to drink enough water
Avoid Stress
4. Avoid triggers
5. Take breaks from your computer, phone, or social media
6. Learn to say no: it’s ok to say no if you don’t want or aren’t able to do something at the moment. Taking on too many commitments can put extra pressure on yourself and cause more stress.
Feeling Low on Energy? Even Small Steps Matter
7. Wash your face, take a shower if you can
8. Put on clean, comfortable clothes
9. Eat something and drink water if you’re able to make your favorite snack or order takeout
10. Read, watch your favorite shows or movies, and try not to feel guilty about not being productive
Relax
11. Play Sudoku or other puzzle games
12. Listen to music
13. Use scented candles or diffuse essential oils
14. Meditate
15. Take a bubble bath or shower and use your favorite shampoo/conditioner, body wash, and lotion
16. Read a book
Get Active
20. Do some simple stretches to get your blood moving
21. Go for a walk
22. Go to a yoga class or try yoga videos at home, try other fitness classes like water aerobics or kickboxing, dance
23. Join a community sports team like softball, basketball or kickball
Get Outside
24. Go for a short walk or hike
25. Ride your bike, skateboard, or rollerblade
26. Have lunch in the park
27. Go to the beach
Social Activities
28. Have dinner or coffee with friends
29. Text, call, or Skype with a friend
30. Join an online community to connect with others
31. Go to a movie with a friend
32. Visit with your family
33. Play board games with friends or family
Creative Outlets
34. Drawing
35. Writing
36. Adult coloring books
37. Painting
38. Try a DIY (Do It Yourself) project
39. Cooking/Baking
40. Work on anything that inspires you
Treat Yourself
41. Get a manicure or pedicure
42. Give yourself a manicure or have your friend give you one
43. Get a massage
44. Buy something small for yourself
45. Eat your favorite meal or dessert