Tag: Self-care

Self-Care Ideas for September

Welcome to September! The nights are bringing cooler temperatures. The chill in the air ushers in beautiful autumn colors. School, virtual or in-person, is starting. Schedules quickly fill up your day. But, taking time for yourself is essential for your well-being. Do you need some inspiration for self-care?

30 Days of Self-Care for September

  1. Buy a new journal and make entries every day.
  2. Watch the sunrise or sunset.
  3. Go hiking
  4. Read a book outside of your normal genre.
  5. Make a fall bucket list or a dream bucket list.
  6. Spend a day or afternoon doing nothing, just relax.
  7. Happy Labor Day! (USA) Find time just for yourself.
  8. Binge-watch a new series.
  9. Go for a nature walk.
  10. Do crafts
  11. Get extra sleep.
  12. Treat yourself to in home spay day.
  13. Go on a virtual tour.
  14. Spend time meditating or praying.
  15. Take a long hot bubble bath or shower
  16. Call an old friend.
  17. Make your favorite recipe or try a new one.
  18. Splurge and order take out.
  19. Watch YouTube videos. Check out gender reveals, marriage proposals, surprise military homecoming, or pets.
  20. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking lots of water or make a tall glass of ice tea.
  21. Turn up the music. Sing along to your favorite tunes or dance.
  22. Autumn begins. Get outdoors and view the colorful fall foliage.
  23. Declutter a room or closet. Or simply clean off the top of your desk.
  24. Find a new food to try, a different type of fruit or candy bar.
  25. Buy yourself flowers.
  26. Make yourself a warm beverage on a cool night.
  27. Go on a Sunday drive.
  28. Print out your photos on your phone and make a scrapbook.
  29. Get dressed up for no reason or stay in pajamas all day.
  30. Practice yoga or other light stretching exercises. (YouTube has number beginner videos).

Have fun and enjoy September!

31 Days of Self-Care for August

August marks the end of summer. School will be starting soon. Whether virtual or in-person, school and work schedules take up a lot of your time. Finding time to relax and care for yourself is essential to your overall well-being.

Self-Care Ideas for August

  1. Stay hydrated! Drink lots of water.
  2. Get enough sleep! If possible, take a nap or sleep in for an extra half hour.
  3. Go for a hike. Do not forget to bring the dog.
  4. Go for a nature walk with your kids.
  5. Go for a bike ride.
  6. Pamper yourself with an in-home spa day. Paint your nails or give yourself a facial.
  7. Take a long relaxing bubble bath.
  8. Write a letter or send out thinking of you cards.
  9. Call or chat online with a friend.
  10. Do yoga or other exercises.
  11. Meditate or pray.
  12. Read a book.
  13. Binge-watch your favorite television series or find a new one to enjoy.
  14. Have a movie marathon, complete with popcorn or other treats.
  15. Make a gratitude list, at least 10 things.
  16. Try a new recipe or cook an old family favorite.
  17. Listen to your favorite music, turn up the volume, sing along, or dance.
  18. Order pizza or another type of take-out to give yourself a break from cooking.
  19. Buy one new item to try at the grocery store. Your pick doesn’t have to be expensive. For example, buy a new type of fruit to try or a candy bar.
  20. Do crafts.
  21. Do not be afraid to say no.
  22. Listen to a Podcast or watch YouTube videos.
  23. Declutter your space.
  24. Go on a virtual tour of a museum, art gallery, or the zoo.
  25. Make a visual board or a mood board.
  26. Keep a journal.
  27. Spend a day in your pajamas.
  28. Invest in a high-quality weighted blanket.
  29. Buy your favorite scented candle to burn.
  30. Make lists.
  31. Be kind to yourself, always.

 

31 Self-Care Ideas for July

Self-care is being aware of your own needs and taking the necessary steps to meet them. The demands of work, parenthood, and other commitments often lead to stress. With the added health crisis, social media, and daily news, you may quickly be overwhelmed. Take a step back, breath, and remember to take time for yourself. Do you need ideas for self-care? Check out the following list for July.

  1. Hydrate: Staying hydrated is essential for your health, especially in the summer. No, you don’t need to give up your morning coffee, just remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  2. Don’t Forget Your Fruits and Veggies: Often, in the summertime, quick meals lead to unhealthy choices. Remember to get your daily intake of fruits and vegetables.
  3. Go Outdoors: Yes, social distancing and other restrictions are still in place but even get outside. Go for a hike, walk around the block, stroll through the city park, or take an extra trip to the dog park. Being outdoors, even for an additional hour, is good for your well-being.
  4. Happy Independence Day, USA! Watch the fireworks. Due to the coronavirus, many events have restrictions or canceled. Watching fireworks from your own vehicle is a safe way to enjoy the holiday. If you do not want to leave home, many PBS stations host 4th of July concerts with fireworks. Enjoy the show from your own couch.
  5. Make a Summer Playlist of Your Favorite Songs
  6. Start a Journal
  7. Create a Vision Board: Fill your board with anything that personally inspires or motivates you. Then, take the necessary steps to transform your goals into reality.
  8. Unplug: Step away from your computer, cell phone, or other electronic devices. Turn off the news. Unplugging for an hour, an afternoon, or a day can positively impact your mood.
  9. Buy Yourself Flowers
  10. Declutter Your Closet
  11. Take a Long Bubble Bath
  12. Give Yourself an In-Home Spa Treatment
  13. Make Your Favorite Meal: Yes, it can be a dessert.
  14. Call a Friend
  15. Meditate or Pray
  16. Do Morning Yoga or Stretching Exercises
  17. Watch the Sunrise or Sunset
  18. Take a Long Afternoon Nap
  19. Go on a Picnic: If the weather is uncooperative, host a picnic in your living room.
  20. Read a Book
  21. Go to the Farmer’s Market: Great place to get your fruits and veggies while supporting your community.
  22. Go for a Ride: Fill up your car and just drive.
  23. Set Goals for the Second Half of 2020
  24. Do Crafts on a Rainy Day
  25. Learn to Say, “No”: Too many commitments can lead to added stress.
  26. Spend an Evening (or Entire Weekend) Binge-Watching: Re-watch your favorite television series or discover something new.
  27. Paint or Draw: Bringing out your inner artists does not have to break the bank. Head to your local dollar store and buy some necessary supplies.
  28. Listen to a New Podcast
  29. Buy Yourself Something New: Treating yourself can be as simple as trying a new type of cracker to purchasing an entire outfit. Just do something new for yourself.
  30. Send a Friend or Family Member a Letter: Or join a pen pal organization and write to someone new.
  31. Make a Goal List for August

30 Days of Self-Care for June

Self-care is essential for your physical, spiritual, and mental well-being. Whether you are working full time, practicing social distancing, or staying at home, you must take the time for yourself. If you would like some inspiration on self-care ideas, check out the following for June.

  1. Go for a Hike: Check out a new trail, get outdoors, and do not forget to take along your favorite 4-legged companion.
  2. Photograph Nature: You do not need a fancy camera to snap a picture of the sunrise or sunset. Spend some time enjoying nature. Photograph your journey.
  3. Video Chat with Friends or Family Members on Zoom
  4. Take a Long, Bubble Bath: Soaking in a warm tub with lots of bubbles is a great way to relax.
  5. Write a Letter: Put pen to paper and write a traditional letter.
  6. Buy Yourself Flowers or Chocolate
  7. Turn Up the Music and Sing
  8. Binge-Watch Something New
  9. Draw or Paint
  10. Try a New Craft
  11. Meditate or Pray
  12. Try a New Recipe
  13. Start a Journal
  14. Read a Book: Step outside of your usual reading genre and find something new to read. Yes, comic books and manga count as reading material.
  15. Listen to a New Podcast
  16. Clean, Declutter, and Reorganize Your Living Space
  17. Take a Long Nap or Sleep In
  18. Listen to an Audio Book
  19. Call a Friend from School
  20. Listen to the Sounds of Nature: If you cannot open your window to hear nature, find a live cam on YouTube or other platforms. Turn up the volume and just listen.
  21. Watch YouTube Videos
  22. Make a Video of Your Pet
  23. Do an In-Home Spa Day: Paint your nails, soak your feet, do a facial, and hot oil treatment for your hair.
  24. Sip a Cup of Hot Tea, Coffee, or Cocoa
  25. Birdwatch
  26. Print Photos from Your Phone: Make a photo scrapbook, buy frames to hang photos on the wall, or send prints to friends and family members.
  27. Go for a Nature Walk: Collect rocks, pine cones, or other material for crafts. Paint the rocks and hide around your neighborhood. For example, paint thank you or quotes on the rock and place in front of the hospital or other medical facility.
  28. Get Take Out: Whether you order a meal for yourself or your family, take a break from cooking. Yes, pizza does count.
  29. Burn a Nice Smelling Candle
  30. Spend an Evening Looking at the Stars

31 Days of Self-Care for May

Whether your essential worker or following the stay-at-home restrictions, self-care is vital to your overall health and well-being. Self-care is taking the necessary steps to care for your own health. The process of self-care does not need to be elaborate or expensive. Just remember, take time out for you.

  1. Unplug: Simply turn off your cell phone (or set to vibrate), step away from the computer, turn off the news, and relax.
  2. Hot Bath: Pamper yourself with a long hot bath or shower. Soaking in a bubble bath is an easy way to relax.
  3. Binge-Watch: Spend an evening or the entire day binge-watching your favorite television show or movie series.
  4. Get Outdoors: Take your favorite four-legged friend for a walk, go hiking, or just sit in your favorite outdoor chair.
  5. Garden: Planting flowers, herbs, or vegetables is a great way to unwind. Even if you can only set a container in the kitchen window, enjoy the process of plant growth. Playing in the dirt is always fun.
  6. Read: Relax in your favorite comfy chair, grab your reader or book, and just fall into the story. Yes, graphic novels and comic books are perfectly acceptable reading material.
  7. Draw or Paint: Art supplies do not need to be expensive. Stop at your local dollar store or order supplies online. Practice drawing or painting. Yes, stick figures drawings and paint by numbers count.
  8. Craft: Invest in some craft materials. Or purchase craft kits that have step by step instructions for creating a specific item.
  9. Create a Family Tree: If you have ever been interested in your family roots, create a tree. Discovering genealogy is a fun and rewarding activity with many benefits.
  10. Happy Mother’s Day: Call your mom. Make a homemade card or have a meal delivered.
  11. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids.
  12. Eat Proper Meals: Eating healthy is essential during stressful times.
  13. Mediate: Spend some time meditating or praying. Either activity can provide a sense of inner peace.
  14. Exercise: Try low-impact yoga or other exercise routines.
  15. Give Yourself an In-Home Spa Day: Spending the day focused on you, soak your feet in warm water with lavender. Paint your nails a new color. Give yourself a facial.
  16. Go on a Virtual Tour: Many museums, art centers, and other establishments are providing virtual tours. Spend an afternoon touring new places.
  17. Make a Bucket List: Write down everything you want to try this summer. Make a local and dream bucket list.
  18. Listen to a Podcast: With all types of podcasts available, you can easily find one or several for your listening pleasure.
  19. Wash Your Bedding: Wash all of your blankets, sheets, and comforter. The smell of clean linen is a great way to relax.
  20. Light a Candle: Purchase a candle in your favorite scent.
  21. Play Games: Online games are popular. Find one that matches your interest. Spend an afternoon playing a new game.
  22. Clean: Tidying and cleaning your living space can provide a sense of accomplishment.
  23. Journal: Write all your thoughts down on paper.
  24. Make a Grateful List: Create a list of gratitude. Recognizing all the positive things helps you concentrate on the good.
  25. Write an Accomplishment List: Sometimes, you can get too focused on current events, you fail to recognize your accomplishments. Make an accomplishments list. Jot notes by your successes and write future goals.
  26. Sleep: Take a long afternoon nap or sleep in. Getting extra rest during stressful times is right for you.
  27. Turn Up the Music: Turn on the radio or other listening device. Sing along. Dance. Enjoy yourself as the music plays loudly.
  28. Call Friends or Relatives: Is there someone on your mind lately? Take the time to call.
  29. Write Letters: Grab your favorite pen and write a letter to a loved one. Or write a thank you note someone from your past that has made a difference in your life.
  30. Try a New Recipe: Cooking something new provides a sense of accomplishment.
  31. Do Nothing: Yes, sometimes the best you can do for yourself is nothing. Do not be afraid to just relax without any goals for the day.

Self-Care at Home

Whether you are self-isolating, quarantined, social distancing, or just an introvert that does not leave the house, self-care is essential to your well-being. Check out the following for self-care activities to do at home.

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink lots of water.
  • Sleep: Leave the alarm off, sleep in for an extra half hour, or take an afternoon nap. The extra rest is good for you.
  • Read a Book: Dive into that stack of unread books. Or take the time to read a book to your family.
  • Bake: Make a homemade meal, bake cookies, or special dessert.
  • Unplug: Yes, stay informed during the crisis. But do not spend all day on the Internet or social media. Give yourself a break from the steady bombardment of information.
  • Take a Virtual Tour: Numerous museums, art galleries, nature parks, and zoos are offering free virtual tours or live cams. Spend some time touring a place that you may not normally get to see in person.
  • Burn a Scented Candle: Light your favorite scented candle to bring a new aroma to your home.
  • Declutter and Organize: Is there a particular area in your home that you have been neglecting? Spend some time decluttering, organizing, and rearranging your space to fit your needs.
  • Write in a Journal: The journal can simply be pieces of notebook paper. But, taking the time to write out your feelings, fears, or everyday frustrations can be liberating.
  • Listen to a Podcast: From movies to daily news, podcasts offer different perspectives on subjects of interest.
  • Play Musical Loudly: Turn up your favorite music. Listening to music is a stress reliever. Singing along is just added fun.
  • Workout: Try a new workout routine, yoga, or stretching exercises. YouTube has numerous videos at all fitness levels.
  • Stay in Your Pajamas: Alright, just be comfy. Stay in your pajamas, lounge pants, or sweat pants. Just spend the day being comfortable.
  • Take a Hot Bubble Bath: Relax in a hot bubble bath or take a long shower.
  • Watch the Sunrise or Sunset: Stepping outdoors for a few minutes or watching through a window, sunsets, and sunrises are magical to watch.
  • Text, Message, Call, or Video Chat: Use your devices to contact old friends or relatives. Being at home for long periods is perfect for safely reconnecting with people.
  • Do Crafts: Pull out your hoard of craft supplies and finish a project.
  • Snuggle With Your Dog: While binge-watching your favorite show, spend some quality time with your dog.

Now, take a deep breath. Spending time away from others is beneficial to everyone. Use the time to implement different self-care activities.  Make your efforts family-oriented activities.

Self-Care on Valentine’s Day

No date for Valentine’s Day? Don’t let the holiday get you down. Enjoy your free time. Take a moment to relax and recharge. Self-care is essential for your mind, body, and spirit. Do you need ideas for self-care on Valentine’s Day? Check out the list below.

Get Outdoors

Unplug from your devices and skip social media for the day.

  • Go for a long walk.
  • Take your dog for a walk or to the dog park.
  • Go for a hike.
  • Eat lunch outdoors.
  • Grab your camera and go for a nature walk.

Even if the weather is cold, a 15-minute stroll around the block can be invigorating.

Start a Journal

Getting your thoughts on paper can be a refreshing experience.

  • Write down your feelings.
  • Describe past experiences.
  • Write about your childhood.
  • Create a gratitude list.
  • Write a letter to your future or past self.
  • Write a story.

Volunteer

 Check out local organizations for a list of volunteer opportunities. For example, numerous animal shelters or rescues ask for volunteer dog walkers. Who knows, you may even meet your next four-legged friend.

Pamper Yourself

Spend some time on yourself.

  • Get a massage.
  • Get a new haircut.
  • Get your nails done by a professional.
  • Take a long nap.
  • Read a book.
  • Go to a museum or art gallery.
  • Take a hot bubble bath.
  • Binge-watch your favorite movie or television show.
  • Order take-out.
  • Make your favorite homemade meal.
  • Buy your own flowers or candy.
  • Go to your favorite café.

Do Arts and Crafts

Let your creative self out on Valentine’s Day. Stop at your local art and crafts store. Pick up some supplies and let your creativity shine. Draw, paint, or do a craft.

Valentine’s Day is the perfect way to indulge. Pamper yourself and enjoy the holiday.

Self-Care Ideas for the Holiday Season

Christmas parties, baking, shopping, planned activities, and other commitments can easily make the holidays a stressful time. Self-care is essential for your physical and mental well-being. Taking a few moments out of the day to regroup and relax will help you enjoy the holiday season.

Ideas for Self-Care During the Christmas Season

Engaging in regular self-care activities can improve your overall mood and reduce anxiety. Consider the following list to help you engage in routine self-care.

  1. Spend some alone time at the library or bookstore
  2. Read a book
  3. Make a playlist
  4. Listen to music loudly and sing along
  5. Go for a nature walk
  6. Go hiking
  7. Take a long, hot bubble bath
  8. Keep a journal
  9. Paint your fingernails
  10. Do crafts
  11. Meditate
  12. Do yoga
  13. Workout
  14. Bake your favorite recipe
  15. Volunteer
  16. Sleep in or take a nap
  17. Unplug from your devices
  18. Call up an old classmate just to catch up
  19. Binge-watch your favorite series
  20. Try a new hobby
  21. Paint
  22. Slowly sip hot tea, coffee, mulled apple cider or hot cocoa
  23. Take a class, workshop, seminar, or attend a conference that is not work-related
  24. Visit your local art gallery, museum, historical place, or other tourist attraction
  25. Watch the sunrise or sunset
  26. Indulge just this one time: eat a piece of cake or candy bar
  27. Invite a friend to lunch
  28. Purchase a lovely smelling candle to light at home
  29. Go to your favorite cafe
  30. Buy yourself a gift (does not have to be a large one, just something special to you)

The holidays will be more enjoyable if you set aside time for yourself.

 

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September Journal Prompt Questions

September brings about the end of summer and the start of the fall season. Your children have either already started school or preparing to return within the week. Finding quiet moments to reflect should be a priority. Do you need some journal inspiration for September?

Journal Prompt Questions for September

  1. What are your goals for September? Go into detail. Write about your personal, work, and family goals for the month.
  2. What does Labor Day mean to you? Are planning on celebrating the day?
  3. Did you like school? Why or why not?
  4. What was your favorite memory of the first day of school? How did your memory compare to your children’s first day?
  5. Who was your favorite teacher in grade school? Junior high? High school? Why did these teachers make a lasting impression?
  6. What was your favorite subject in school? What made you interested in this particular subject? Do you still find the subject interesting today?
  7. Who were your best friends in grade school, junior high, and high school? Did you remain friends with any of them after school was out?
  8. What was your favorite sport or extracurricular activity? What did you enjoy the post about the activity?
  9. If you could go back to high school, what would you do differently? Why?
  10. Did you go to your senior prom? Write the details of the night?
  11. What school activities are your children participating in? What do you like about their choices?
  12. How would you describe yourself in school? How does the description compare with who you are today?
  13. What project would you like to start for the fall season?
  14. Write about your normal daily routine.
  15. Write 5 facts about yourself, your husband (or significant other), your children, parents, and grandparents. Go into detail. Why are these facts important to you?
  16. How would you describe your current lifestyle? Are there any changes you would like to implement? Why?
  17. What is your idea of a romantic evening? When was the last time you had a romantic evening?
  18. List 10 things you would like to change in your household.
  19. What funny story or moment did you and children share today?
  20. What would you like to accomplish over the weekend? Do you want to spend more time with your family? Go out to dinner? Have a movie night? What steps do you need to take to make one these happen?
  21. What is your favorite song? Why is this particular song important to you?
  22. Describe a recent accomplishment? How do you feel?
  23. First Day of Autumn: What do you like about the fall season?
  24. List 10 fall activities for you and your family to enjoy.
  25. What childhood memories do you have about fall?
  26. Describe your last family gathering. What was successful? What could you do differently next time?
  27. Write a letter to a past teacher. No, you don’t have to send it.
  28. What changes would you like to see in yourself?
  29. What new recipe or activity would you like to try before 2020?
  30. What would you like to accomplish for the last 4 months of the year?

Self-Care Ideas for August

What is self-care? School schedules, work, home, and other commitments keep you busy. Setting aside time for you may seem impossible. Engaging in small self-care moments is a necessity for your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Practicing self-care is good for your overall health.

Do you need some ideas for self-care? Consider the following for August.

  • Keep a journal to express your feelings, goals, or recap of your daily routine.
  • Read a book.
  • Listen to music, sing along loudly to your favorite song.
  • Exercise, join a gym, go for a walk, or try yoga.
  • Paint or engage in other forms of crafting.
  • Skip being on social media for a day or a week.
  • Have a spa day. (At home or professional, spend an entire day pampering yourself).
  • Spend time in nature.
  • Take a relaxing bubble bath or a hot shower.
  • Take an afternoon nap.
  • Cook your favorite meal or dessert.
  • Write a letter to a friend or relative.
  • Watch the sunset or sunrise.
  • Spend an afternoon at the library or bookstore.
  • Learn a new hobby.
  • Take the afternoon off to go to the movies.
  • Buy yourself a new outfit. (Yes, thrift store finds count).
  • Go on a day trip.
  • Try meditation, prayer, or listening to nature sounds.
  • Go hiking with your dog.
  • Relax with Netflix and popcorn.
  • Write 5 reasons why you are grateful. (Feel free to write more than 5).
  • Take steps to stop comparing yourself to others. Your journey is yours alone.
  • Call an old friend.
  • Learn to say to tell people no.

Self-care takes practice. Learn to set aside a little time each day or week to care for you.