How to: Have a Self-Care Day

Written by Reilly Norgren

Photography by Henry Cohen

As we get near the end of the term, it becomes important to remember to take care of yourself. Working hard & studying hard both need to be balanced with a healthy dose of self-care. Sometimes it’s hard to think about how to treat yourself with everything you have to do. Whether you just feel too busy or don’t know where to begin your self-care journey, this list is here to help you.

1. Get your body moving

There is nothing better proven than exercise to get you in the right headspace. You can choose to hit the gym, go for a run, or go on a hike in nature! Being active is a good way to start your day or end it and give yourself some time to just listen to music and be moving.

2. Fuel yourself- and make it fun!

Food is so important to maintaining good energy and focus while doing work. If you’re feeling hungry and burnt out, go all out on one of your meals that day! Make your favorite dish and share it with friends, or order in your favorite restaurant and eat it in front of your TV.

There is nothing more classical in the self-care world than giving yourself a night to completely pamper yourself. Get out the candles, and sheet masks, and get your favorite tv show queued up because you deserve a night off! It’s important to balance all your hard work with plenty of relaxation time.

4. Get crafty

If you have a creative hobby already, or you’ve been itching to try one out, this is a perfect time! You can write out your feelings in a journal, or try out painting or sewing! This will take your mind off your worries, and you might even discover a new favorite hobby!

5. Binge-watch your heart out

There is nothing shameful about spending some quality time with your couch and your remote. Try watching that new show that just came out that you’ve been meaning to get to, or rewatch an old nostalgic favorite series or movie. To make your night in even better, try making popcorn or another classic film snack to eat while you’re watching.

6. Phone a friend.. or 5!

Nothing warms the soul quite like time well spent with people you care about. All of these activities can be done with a friend (or a few friends), so try inviting them too! Or plan something totally fun and new to try together. What’s important is that you’re both feeling the worries ebb away one fun memory at a time.

No matter which one of these activities you try, the important thing is to not force it! Make sure you’re keeping yourself stress-free and doing what makes you happy! Taking care of yourself is necessary to not experience burnout, but it can be easy to forget to indulge in yourself once in a while. Whether your vibe is outdoor hiking or staying very much indoors, hopefully, this list inspired you to take a day just for you.