21 Quick and Revitalizing Self Care Ideas for Women

If you’re here looking for self-care ideas for women, it’s because you’ve done the first step of self-care - saying “yes” to self-care. That’s huge!

Please don’t let this go unnoticed or uncelebrated because it's often just too easy to make excuses, forget to do it, or fall victim to our blindspots keeping us from self care.

But now what?

How do you spend that precious time you’ve carved out just for you? It can be a little intimidating, right? 

But let me be that little birdie in your ear reminding you, “Any act of self-care is enough.” Ladies, don’t let yourself stress out over self-care! Let’s make it easy and restorative. Really, that’s the whole point. 

I made this list of self care ideas specifically with busy, badass women in mind. (Hey, Mamas!) 

There’s no wrong way to use this list, but here are a few ideas:

• Pick a few for your self-care Sunday lineup.
• Print it out and keep the list on your fridge for when a spare moment pops up.
• Pick one to incorporate into your daily routine.
• Pick one for every day that you're on vacation.
• Curate a personal retreat! 

Now, what are you waiting for? Go on! Have fun, relax, and enjoy. You really do deserve it.

Want a curated-for-you week of self care routine for the week?

Check out my 7 Day Self Care Challenge!

The Best Self Care Ideas for Women

Life can get hectic, but carving out moments for simple pleasures, like a 10-minute stretch, a nature walk, or a short meditation break, can transform your day and rejuvenate your spirit.

1. 10 Minute Stretch

Stretching connects us back to our bodies when we spend all day in our minds. Self care can be about giving our bodies some well-deserved attention and love. Roll out a yoga mat and just let yourself move and stretch in whatever way your body calls you to. Listen to your body.

2. Nature Walk

Embrace your inner peace while enjoying a nature walk. Be one with nature––Listen to the soothing sounds of the river and the birds singing as you explore the trail. Even a short walk can greatly benefit your physical health. Just grab a pair of trail shoes and a bottle of water, and you're ready to go.

3. 5-Minute Meditation Break

We all deserve short meditation breaks that bring us calm, peace, and balance. There's no need for expensive gear to meditate. Just find a quiet room, take a seat, close your eyes, focus on your breathing, and become a silent observer.

4. Journal for Gratitude

The secret to a happy life is having a sense of gratitude. Truly. It is one of the self-care practices that has changed my life. Keeping a journal is a great way to express it. You can use a simple notebook, or any type of journal you prefer–– then start writing your gratitude with sincerity. Don’t worry about how short or long; as long as it’s genuine, it’s perfect.

5. Digital Detox Hour

We all need a cleanse from the toxicity of social media and tech. A digital detox is great for increasing productivity, boosting your mood, and getting quality sleep. The list of benefits could really go on and on. Start by muting all notifications and placing your phone somewhere that’s not easy to access. Just one hour. You got this.

6. Enjoy Some Aromatherapy

Light a candle and just bask in its aroma. What does this smell remind you of? What memories can you trace back to? Maybe take out your journal and see where it takes you. Aromatherapy can be a powerful way to relax and unwind. Try using essential oils like lavender for relaxation, citrus for an energy boost, or eucalyptus for a refreshing experience. Let the scents guide you to a place of calm and introspection.

7. Healthy Snack Prep

You will be thanking yourself later for this one. Having quick, easy, and healthy snacks to grab for when you need them is such a treat! Slice up some fresh fruits and veggies, prepare some trail mix with nuts and dried fruits, or make a batch of energy balls with oats, honey, and your favorite add-ins. Store them in your fridge or pantry, so you have nutritious options ready whenever hunger strikes. Taking a little time now means you'll have healthy choices at your fingertips all week long.

8. DIY Face Mask

This is the easiest face mask you'll ever try and I bet it won't be the last time! For this one, I use raw organic honey. Yep, that's it! Honey is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and a natural humectant! It's my secret to soft, hydrated skin. Simply put a small amount of honey on your hands and gently massage your face in a circular motion. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

9. Music Therapy

Engaging with music can significantly enhance your emotional well-being. Whether you’re singing, playing an instrument, or simply listening, music has the power to reduce anxiety and stress. You don’t need to be a professional musician to experience its benefits—just immerse yourself in the music. Music therapy works by tapping into our innate connection to rhythm and sound, helping to regulate our emotions and promote a sense of inner peace. Let the music guide you to a state of calm and balance.

10. Power Nap

Taking power naps reduces fatigue, boosts focus, and improves memory. They don't have to be long—15-30 minutes is enough. Short naps during work breaks can help you feel more energized throughout your day. You'll feel better and perform better.

11. Declutter Your Space

It's nice to see your space clean and organized. That feeling of satisfaction is actually your brain rewarding you for a "job well done." An organized workspace can improve focus and boost productivity, and decluttering your bedroom can lead to better sleep. There are also organizational apps to help with digital decluttering and keep your devices organized.

12. Tea Time Ritual

Squeezing in a few minutes each day to drink tea is a simple way to keep yourself calm and healthy. You can drink tea for anxiety and stress, boost brain function, and protect against cancer. Practicing this self-care ritual can benefit you for many years to come!

13. Treat Yourself to a Wellness Supplement

This category of self-care often flies under the radar, but it can truly elevate your physical and mental health and well-being. My favorite family of wellness supplements is Adaptogens. They're like pure magic when it comes to managing stress and anxiety. Start with something simple like Ashwagandha, Holy Basil, or Rhodiola, which help your body adapt to stress and promote a steady sense of inner peace.

14. Plan Out the Next Day

Planning the next day is like creating a blueprint—it gives us an overview of what needs to be done. This keeps us organized and helps us manage our time more easily which leads to less stress and anxiety. You can use a notebook or planner to schedule your activities or find the best daily planner app that works for you to keep your calendar updated.

15. Write Out Your Manifestation Goals

The more we focus on our goals, the more likely they are to happen. That’s how manifestation works. Write your specific goals in your journal and believe you've already achieved them. The power of manifestation will work its magic on you!

16. Make Some Travel Plans

Have you ever traveled without planning ahead? We've all been there—unnecessarily paying more, getting lost, and not knowing what to do. While that may occasionally be the adventure you're going for, a much less stressful scenario is a thoughtful adventure. That's why it's essential to create an itinerary before you travel. Take note of your destinations, stops, budget, and other important details to ensure you're on the right track.

17. Hydration Reminder

Water is life. Drinking 6-8 glasses a day keeps our bodies fresh, improves digestion, boosts brain function, and more. We should remind ourselves to drink water regularly to maximize these benefits. I always keep a reusable water bottle with me and make notes in my journal to stay hydrated.

18. Breathing Exercises

When I first started doing breathing exercises, I quickly noticed changes in my body. My blood pressure and heart rate lowered, I stayed calm most of the time, and I felt an increased flow of energy. One effective technique is the 4-7-8 method: inhale deeply through your nose for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth for 8 seconds. This method helps regulate your nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

19. Read a Book

Reading is a powerful tool for self-care, offering both mental stimulation and relaxation. Set aside 15-30 minutes each day to immerse yourself in a good book. This small daily habit can significantly boost your mental health, reduce stress, and expand your knowledge. Whether you’re diving into fiction, exploring new ideas in non-fiction, or revisiting a beloved classic, reading provides a meaningful escape and enriches your mind. Make it a daily ritual to unwind and nurture your well-being.

20. Artistic Expression

Artistic expression is a wonderful way to nurture your creativity and well-being. Whether it’s painting, drawing, writing, or another form of art, the goal is to let your creativity flow freely. These activities provide a therapeutic outlet, allowing you to express emotions and ideas in a tangible form. Personally, I find writing to be an incredibly fulfilling way to share my thoughts and support other women.

21. Social Connection

Nurturing strong social connections is vital for our mental and emotional well-being. Good relationships can help protect us from anxiety and depression while boosting our self-esteem and overall happiness. Make time to connect with friends and family, and be open to meeting new people. Practice active listening to build trust and show empathy, creating deeper, more meaningful relationships.

The Amazing Benefits of Self Care

Studies have proven that even small, regular self care routines have tremendous implications for improving many facets of a woman's life.

Here are a few of the benefits:

Better Relationships

I've been a giver for as long as I can remember, but sometimes at the expense of myself. Self care has taught me that I can actually be a much better giver to the people I love if I give to myself first.

Reducing Anxiety and Depression

Practicing self-care has greatly improved my mental health. I smile more often and feel ready to tackle whatever life throws at me when I am steady in my self-care practices.

Improving Happiness

I can thank my gratitude journal for completely shifting my perspective on life. I became more appreciative of all the little things in life––like a sunny day or a kind word from a friend. These small things that happen often! They fill my life with so much joy now that I have the mind and heart to see them as something to be grateful for.

Finding Time for Self Care

Why is it that when something’s gotta give, the time we spend on ourselves is the first to get cut?

We all have packed schedules—work, family, endless to-do lists—and it’s so easy to push our own needs aside. Guilt plays a big role here. We feel like taking time for ourselves is selfish, so we end up prioritizing everyone else’s needs over our own.

And let’s be honest, society doesn’t make it any easier. We live in a culture that glorifies being busy and productive. There’s constant pressure to be on the go and always available, making self-care seem like a luxury we can’t afford. This mindset makes it hard to give ourselves permission to slow down and take a break.

We often don’t notice how much we need self-care until we’re completely exhausted.

By the time we recognize the signs of stress and burnout, it feels like it’s too late. Plus, saying no and setting boundaries can be really challenging, which just adds to the problem.

Perfectionism can also get in the way. We’re so focused on doing everything perfectly that we leave no room for self-care. We think self-care has to be something grand and time-consuming, but it’s the small, consistent actions that really make a difference.

Understanding these challenges is the first step toward making self-care a priority. It’s about recognizing that taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.

How to Make Self Care a Habit

Creating a consistent self-care routine can be challenging, but with the right strategies, it can become a natural part of your daily life. Here are some tips to help you make self-care a lasting habit:

1. Start Small
   Begin with small, manageable self-care activities. Even five minutes a day can make a significant difference. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase the time you dedicate to self-care.
2. Schedule It In
   Treat self-care like an important appointment. Set aside specific times in your day or week dedicated solely to self-care. Use reminders on your phone or mark it in your planner to ensure you don’t skip it.
3. Set Realistic Goals
   Avoid setting overly ambitious self-care goals that may lead to frustration. Instead, set realistic and achievable goals that fit into your lifestyle. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small.
4. Find What You Love
   Experiment with different self-care activities to discover what truly brings you joy and relaxation. The more you enjoy the activity, the more likely you are to stick with it.
5. Incorporate Self Care into Daily Routines
   Look for ways to integrate self-care into your existing routines. For example, practice mindfulness while brushing your teeth, take a few deep breaths before starting work, or enjoy a cup of tea during a break.
6. Track Your Progress
   Keep a journal or use an app to track your self-care activities and how they make you feel. Reflecting on your progress can be motivating and help you stay committed to your self-care routine.
7. Get Support
   Share your self-care goals with friends or family members who can offer encouragement and accountability. Consider joining a self-care group or online community for additional support.
8. Be Flexible
   Life can be unpredictable, and it’s okay to adjust your self-care routine as needed. If you miss a day, don’t be too hard on yourself. Focus on getting back on track and being consistent over time.

By incorporating these self-care strategies, you can create a sustainable routine that supports your physical and mental well-being. Remember, self-care is an ongoing process, and it’s important to be patient and kind to yourself as you establish new habits.

Are you ready to take your self-care to the next level?

As a life coach and therapist, I have dedicated my life to helping women like you find balance, joy, and fulfillment.

Whether you're a busy professional, a mother juggling countless responsibilities, or someone who simply wants to reconnect with their inner self, I am here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Don't wait any longer to prioritize your wellbeing. Click here to learn more about my life coaching services and schedule a consultation today. Your best self is just a click away!

I'm Ready!