50 Simple Ways to Practice Self-Care

With the holiday season quickly approaching, it’s the perfect time to take a step back and practice self-care. Well, actually, anytime is the perfect time to practice self-care, but with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be particularly important.

Self-care doesn’t have to be grandesque, take a lot of time or cost money. While self-care can be a pampering day at the spa or nail salon, it can also be as quick and easy as drinking enough water or making a gratitude list. I like to think of self-care under the categories of mind, body and soul/spiritual.

Below is a list of 50 simple ways to practice self-care. Bonus that most of the ideas are completely free!

“Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what’s left of you.”

-KATIE REED

1. Start a gratitude journal or a gratitude jar
2. Practice deep breathing
3. Light your favorite candle
4. Diffuse essential oils
5. Connect with friends/family
6. Listen to your favorite music, podcast or audiobook
7. Go for a long walk or hike
8. De-clutter a space
9. Go to bed early
10. Sleep in
11. Take a long shower or hot bath
12. Drink a warm beverage
13. Meditate/Quiet time
14. Read an uplifting or inspiring book
15. Spend time alone
16. Stretch/Do yoga
17. Spend time in nature
18. Do something nice for someone
19. Play with your pet
20. Have a home spa day/night (face mask, paint nails, etc.)
21. Have a dance party to your favorite songs
22. Read a devotional or spend time in prayer
23. Get some sun
24. Take a break from social media
25. Turn off notifications
26. Unfollow people on social media
27. Delete unused apps on your phone
28. Clear out photos/videos from your phone
29. Unsubscribe from email subscription lists
30. Do something creative (write, draw, paint, color, craft)
31. Create a new music playlist
32. Drink fresh lemon water
33. Recite positive affirmations
34. Make your favorite meal or dessert
35. Buy yourself fresh flowers
36. Put fresh sheets on your bed
37. Make a vision board.
38. Go for a drive
39. Set goals
40. Make a healthy smoothie or green juice
41. Create a morning and/or night routine
42. Have a sweaty workout session
43. Do something you’ve been putting off for a while
44. Take a nap
45. Stay hydrated
46. Try something new
47. Get a massage
48. Get some fresh air
49. Watch the sunset/sunrise
50. Explore your city

I hope you found this list of self-care activities to be both inspiring and helpful. What are your go-to self care activities? Leave a comment below letting me know your favorite way to practice self-care.