Practice Self-Care
Complete step-by-step checklist to practice self-care covering start your day with positive affirmations and take a relaxing warm bath or shower, and essential action items.
Start your day with positive affirmations
Look in the mirror and say encouraging words to yourself to set a positive tone
Take a relaxing warm bath or shower
Unwind with warm water; add Epsom salts, essential oils, or bath bombs for extra relaxation
Read a book for pleasure
Spend 15-30 minutes reading something enjoyable, not work-related
Practice deep breathing
Take 5-10 slow, deep breaths when feeling overwhelmed or stressed
Do an activity you love
Dedicate time to hobbies like painting, gardening, music, or dancing
Get fresh air and sunlight
Step outside for 10-15 minutes to boost mood and get vitamin D
Listen to calming or uplifting music
Create a playlist of songs that relax or energize you
Take a social media break
Unplug for 30-60 minutes to reduce comparison stress and overstimulation
Prepare a healthy and enjoyable meal
Cook something nutritious that you genuinely enjoy eating
Practice gratitude journaling
Write down 3 things you are grateful for each day
Get enough sleep
Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep and stick to a consistent bedtime
Stay hydrated
Drink water regularly throughout the day for better energy and health
Stretch your body
Do 5-10 minutes of gentle stretching to relax muscles and release tension
Spend quality time with loved ones
Connect with family, friends, or pets for positive emotional support
Set healthy boundaries
Learn to say no; protect your time and energy from draining people or tasks
Reflect and review your day
Spend 5 minutes journaling or thinking about what went well and what you learned