How to Start a Self-Care Routine: Easy Tips When You Don’t Know Where to Begin

Life can get crazy busy, right? Between work, family, and everything else, it’s so easy to push ourselves to the bottom of the list. We just keep going, making sure life happens, but what about us? Our health, our peace, and our emotions often get left behind in the hustle. It’s like we’re running on empty, always taking care of everything else, but not ourselves.

Here’s the truth: taking care of yourself is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. And it doesn’t have to be this huge, overwhelming task. Self-care can be simple and easy to fit into your busy life. The key is starting small and being consistent.

So, if you’re ready to make yourself a priority, here are some super simple tips to start your self-care routine.

1. Set Aside Time Just for You

Start by carving out a few minutes a day just for yourself. It doesn’t have to be long—even 10 minutes will make a difference. Whether it’s in the morning, during your lunch break, or right before bed, find a little “me-time” where you can focus on relaxing and recharging.

2. Hydrate Your Body

Drinking enough water is so underrated! Hydration is such an easy way to take care of yourself, yet we often forget about it. Keep a water bottle with you throughout the day and make a habit of sipping regularly. It’s a small act of self-care that does wonders for your skin, energy levels, and overall health.

3. Move Your Body

You don’t need a full gym session to practice self-care. A 10-minute stretch, a walk around the block, or a quick dance break in your living room counts! Moving your body not only helps physically but also boosts your mood and clears your mind. The goal here is to feel good, not add pressure.

4. Do One Thing That Makes You Happy

What’s one thing that makes you happy? Whether it’s listening to your favorite song, reading a book, or enjoying a cup of coffee in peace—make time for it. Even something small that brings you joy is a huge act of self-care.

5. Unplug for a While

We’re so connected all the time, it’s exhausting. Try unplugging from your phone, social media, or emails for a little while each day. Disconnecting, even for a short time, can bring you peace, help clear your mind, and make you feel more present in the moment.

Related: 101 Ideas for Self-care on a Budget ( & Printable Planner)

6. Breathe

When was the last time you took a deep breath? Like, really took a moment to breathe. Life gets hectic, and it’s easy to forget that sometimes we just need to stop, breathe, and reset. Take a minute or two to practice deep breathing—inhale, hold, exhale slowly—and feel the stress melt away.

7. Get Enough Sleep

Let’s be real: sleep is the foundation of self-care. No matter what you do during the day, if you’re running on little sleep, you’re not giving your body and mind what they need. Prioritize rest, and try to get 7-9 hours of quality sleep. It’s a game changer for how you feel physically and emotionally.

Related: Your Ultimate Guide to Self-care Sunday (Printable Planner Included)

Final Thoughts

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about finding simple ways to prioritize yourself, even on the busiest days. Start small, be consistent, and remember that taking care of you isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. By giving yourself just a little bit of time each day, you’ll feel more balanced, energized, and ready to take on whatever life throws at you. You got this!

Related posts:

Real Beauty School