60 Revitalizing Self-Care Ideas—Even When You Have No Time

by | Jun 20, 2023

Self-care written in stones on the beach

In today’s blog, we share 60 self-care ideas—20 each when you:

Why Self-Care?

Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s a necessary part of your well-being. It can improve the balance between your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. It can bring you joy and help you align with your authentic self.

Self-care ideas when you feel like you have no time.

  1. Take 3 deep breaths—every 30 minutes.
  2. Write down 5 things you’re grateful for.
  3. Make a lap around the office or house.
  4. Give yourself some grace.
  5. Keep a kudos file at work or home, then reread the messages.
  6. Take 5 minutes to stretch.
  7. Ask for help.
  8. Practice positive self-talk.
  9. Say a quick prayer or find an app with positive affirmations.
  10. Take a lunch break away from your desk.
  11. Ask for a hug (from a friend or family member).
  12. Light a candle with a fragrance you love.
  13. Savor a cup of coffee or tea.
  14. Limit screen time.
  15. Avoid social media.
  16. Listen to soothing music.
  17. Prioritize what matters.
  18. Challenge a negative thought.
  19. Set clear boundaries.
  20. Step out of the weeds on a project.
young man stretching at his desk at work
woman doing yoga

Self-care ideas that take less than an hour:

  1. Give yourself flowers, tend to a houseplant, or plant a garden.
  2. Take a walk outside.
  3. Check your environment. Take 15 minutes to declutter.
  4. Get a manicure, pedicure, or massage.
  5. Phone a friend.
  6. Try a self-guided meditation from the internet or an app.
  7. Take a yoga class on YouTube.
  8. Soak in a warm tub.
  9. Take up a new hobby.
  10. Practice positive self-talk.
  11. Daydream about a happy memory.
  12. Take a refreshing nap.
  13. Write a note or send a card to an elderly or lonely person.
  14. Browse a magazine.
  15. Make your bucket list.
  16. Belt out your favorite song.
  17. Write down your goals.
  18. Say no.
  19. Lift light weights or do a few calisthenics.
  20. Turn off the TV.
candles, hot rocks, and towel for massage

Self-care when time is dragging:

  1. Get dressed and groomed. (Or if you always get dressed and groomed, stay in your jammies all day.)
  2. Indulge in a favorite movie or go to a theatre.
  3. Seek out nature by heading to a botanical garden, forest preserve, or beach.
  4. Do something nice for someone without them knowing. Sometimes joy can come from doing something kind for someone else.
  5. Get a good book from the library, then read it.
  6. Sign up for something you’ve always wanted to do. Then do it.
  7. Look at an old photo album, or print your favorite digital images.
  8. Listen to your favorite comedian or watch a funny show.
  9. Pet your dog (or cat) or volunteer at an animal shelter.
  10. Plan a vacation.
  11. Be crafty. Paint, sew, or crochet.
  12. Cook a healthy, delicious meal.
  13. Just be.
  14. Do a crossword or jigsaw puzzle.
  15. Turn off your smartphone.
  16. Dance to your favorite music.
  17. Reach out to a friend.
  18. Reflect on your goals. What do you need to bring more balance to your life?
  19. Go for JOMO—the Joy of Missing out.
  20. Star gaze or watch the clouds drift by.
woman dancing in business suit and heels

If you struggle with self-care or other areas of wellness, contact us.

Lisa Aranas

Lisa Aranas, JD, LCPC, is a Life Coach and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. She is also a certified divorce and custody mediator, personal trainer, and holistic nutritionist.
Lisa Aranas JD LCPC