“How to Create a Self-Care Routine at Home” is a collaborative post.
Life can be chaotic. Finding a time to relax when balancing out work, family and other responsibilities can be difficult. Taking care of yourself? That can end up at the bottom of the list. But it shouldn’t. Creating a self-care routine at home isn’t a luxury. It’s essential. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Just small, intentional acts that bring calm and balance.
Looking to prioritise yourself and your health? Here is a step by step guide on how to create a self-care routine at home.
Start with the basics
Ask yourself, “What makes me feel good?” Self-care isn’t just candles and bath salt. It’s about what recharges you. A few minutes of deep breathing, stretching before bed or switching off your phone earlier in the evening can all improve your wellbeing.
Make a list. Sleep, movement, hydration, nutrition—these form the foundation. Without them, the fancier stuff is just a temporary fix. Prioritise sleep by setting a bedtime and sticking to it. Drink more water. Eat meals that give you energy rather than drain it. And make sure to move your body in ways that feel enjoyable. Small things, big impact.
Create a space that feels good
Our surroundings affect our mood. Cluttered, chaotic spaces can make it harder to relax. Tidy up. Light a candle. Play soft music. It doesn’t need to be perfect, just peaceful. Even a small corner with a cosy chair and a blanket can make a difference.
Scent plays a big role too. Essential oils and fresh flowers can instantly shift your mood. It’s important to find what works for you.
Establish a ritual
Routines create structure. A morning or evening ritual tells your mind that it’s time to slow down. This could be doing a skincare routine or reading a few pages of a book. Something simple but consistent. Something just for you.
Try setting aside five to ten minutes a day. A warm drink in the morning before scrolling your phone. A short stretch before bed. A moment of stillness. That’s self-care.
Use self-care gifts to encourage the habit
Sometimes, sticking to a self-care routine needs a little push. A self care gift box can be a great way to start. It’s a ready-made kit of things that promote relaxation—bath salts, teas, face masks, or a journal. The kind of things you might not buy for yourself but make all the difference when they arrive at your doorstep.
Why not give a self care gift box to someone else? Encourage a friend or loved one to take time for themselves. It’s good to focus on yourself. But thinking about others is always a good thing, too.
Set boundaries for a digital detox
Phones, emails, social media—constant connection can be exhausting. A self-care routine should include moments of disconnection. Turn off notifications. Step away from screens, even for a short time.
Try a no-phone rule during meals or the first 30 minutes of your day. Read a book instead of scrolling before bed. Next time you go out for a walk, try doing so without headphones. You can’t beat the sound of nature. Let your mind “breathe”.
Move in a way that feels good
Exercise doesn’t have to be a high-intensity workout. Yoga, stretching and gentle walking all count. Move your body to lift your mind and release stress.
Find something you enjoy. Maybe that’s dancing around your living room. Maybe it’s a short workout video. Maybe it’s just stepping outside for fresh air.
Nourish your body
Food is fuel. Not energy fuel. It’s great for mood and wellbeing. Eat meals that make you feel good and drink enough water.
Cooking can be a self-care act, too. Preparing something slowly, with intention. Eating mindfully instead of rushing through meals.
Prioritise rest
Rest isn’t just sleep. It’s allowing yourself to pause. To do nothing without guilt. Rest is lying on the sofa with a blanket. It’s watching the clouds move outside your window. It’s sitting quietly with a cup of tea.
Pushing through exhaustion isn’t a badge of honour. Resting when you need to? That’s self-care.
Build a self-care routine today!
Building a self-care routine doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small. One habit at a time. Choose one thing that feels manageable. Stick to it. Then add another.
