If you’ve been feeling tired, overwhelmed, or just kind of… disconnected lately, you’re not alone. Life is busy. We take care of everyone else — kids, work, home, relationships — and somehow forget about the one person holding it all together: you.
But here’s the thing — self-care isn’t selfish. It’s survival. And it doesn’t have to be expensive, luxurious, or Instagram-worthy. It just has to be intentional.
If you’re new to this whole “taking care of yourself” thing, don’t worry. I’ve put together a list of 17 simple self-care activities you can try — no pressure, no guilt, no perfection required.
17 Basic Self-Care Activities for Beginners
Drink a big glass of water
Sounds silly, right? But hydration is self-care. Your body and your brain need it — especially when you’re running on empty.
Go outside for 10 minutes
Fresh air and sunlight can reset your mood in ways you wouldn’t expect. Walk, stretch, or just sit on the steps. Breathe.
Make your bed
It’s quick. It’s easy. And it sets a tone of calm and control — even if the rest of your day feels a little chaotic.
Take a real shower (yes, with the fancy soap)
Wash off the stress. Put on lotion. Brush your hair slowly. Remind your body you care about it.
Say no to something — just because you need rest
You don’t owe anyone your energy if you’re running low. Saying no is a form of self-respect.
Put your phone down for 15 minutes
No scrolling. No notifications. Just you — in silence. It’s harder than it sounds, but worth it.
Stretch your body
Even a few neck rolls or shoulder shrugs at your desk can release tension. No yoga class required.
Write down three things you’re grateful for
They don’t have to be deep. Your coffee, a funny meme, the fact that you remembered to do laundry — they all count.
Light a candle or diffuse a calming scent
Lavender, vanilla, eucalyptus… whatever makes your nervous system sigh with relief.
Listen to music that makes you feel good
Create a playlist that feels like a warm hug or an energy boost. Dance, cry, or sing along — all allowed.
Set a timer and do a 10-minute tidy-up
You don’t need to deep clean. Just pick one area. Less mess = less mental clutter.
Read a few pages of something that inspires you
A novel, a devotional, a poem, or even a page from a journal you love. Let your brain rest and dream.
Make yourself a nourishing snack
Not just whatever’s leftover from your kid’s plate. Something you actually want to eat. Yes, you’re allowed.
Repeat a kind affirmation out loud
Try: “I am allowed to rest.” or “I’m doing the best I can, and that’s enough.”
Say it like you mean it (even if you don’t yet).
Go to bed 30 minutes earlier
No phone. No guilt. Just extra sleep, because your body deserves to recover.
Write it out
Feeling overwhelmed? Grab a notebook and write it all out. No filter. No grammar rules. Just let it out of your head and onto the page.
Let yourself do nothing — guilt-free
No productivity. No goals. Just rest. Sit, lay down, stare at the ceiling. You’re still worthy, even when you’re not “doing.”
Final Words
Self-care isn’t always glamorous. Sometimes, it’s just brushing your teeth and drinking water. Sometimes, it’s canceling plans and crying in the shower. And sometimes, it’s dancing in the kitchen while your coffee brews.
Start small. Be gentle with yourself.
You don’t need to earn rest. You don’t need to deserve joy.
You’re allowed to take care of you — just as you are.
