Self-care is more than a popular hashtag on Instagram – it’s a much-needed movement. As women, we are master jugglers, which is why we need to take extra good care of ourselves in-between all that we do. To make it easier, I’ve compiled a list of the best self-care tips I could find from around the web. Here are the most helpful self-care tips and ideas I found across the web.
1. Make sleep a priority
Did you know that women need 20 more minutes of sleep per day than men? According to sleep expert Dr. Jim Horne, women tend to multi-task and use more of their actual brain than men leading to a greater need for sleep. I love using this iPhone feature to help me stay on a schedule and also to reduce my screen time. No more feeling guilty for hitting snooze.
2. Put on a face mask and chill
According to The Zoe Report, face masks are the new self-care. Apply a face mask and read a magazine for twenty minutes, soak in the tub, or all of the above. These simple routines force us to take a break and recharge.
3. Support your gut health
Psychology Today shares how tending to your gut health can help boost your health and well-being and can be a great form of self-care. I love Dr. Susan Blum’s book, The Immune System Recovery Plan which dedicates a significant portion of her book to how to heal and support your gut through food and supplements.
4. Stop to smell the coffee
Women’s Health Mag suggests to: “stop to smell the coffee–literally” as a self-care tip. Instead of going through the motions of making your morning brew without much thought, take a second to smell your coffee and enjoy the sensory experience. Finding joy in the little things matters.
5. Watch a comedy instead of the news
The constant negativity in the news can be draining and can slowly chip away at your well-being. I opt for watching uplifting comedies and shows instead as a way to recharge and boost my mood. Wedding Crashers on repeat anyone?
6. Schedule time off
If you are one of those people who never takes time off because there is never the right time then this is for you. I’m always amazed by what a little rest and relaxation can do. If taking a holiday isn’t in your budget, try taking day trips to local farms or hiking trails to get out and decompress.
7. Take a social media detox
Instead of aimlessly watching reels on TikTok, use that time to relax and take care of yourself.
8. Turn up the tunes
In this article, Greatist suggested, “turning up the tunes” to take better care of yourself. Listening to your favorite jams can be an instant mood booster. I like exploring new playlists on Spotify. Currently very into a french cooking playlist.
9. Have a creative outlet
Creative outlets are my favorite way to decompress. They are simple ways to switch off from work mode and do something you enjoy. Paint, write, knit, whatever makes you happy.
10. Build a self-care kit
Last but not least, I loved this idea from Wanderlust that talks about building a self-care kit. Create a basket of some of your favorite things so you can indulge when needed. Face masks, loungewear, chocolate bars — the more indulgent the better.
When I think about self-care, I’m always reminded of when I’m on an airplane and you’re are instructed to put your oxygen mask on before helping others. When we take good care of ourselves first, it allows us to show up as our best possible selves to those around us. Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential.
