12 Simple Self-Care Ideas to do Daily

With so much to pack into a day, you may forget to take care of yourself. It could sound silly, but with so many other things on our minds, we may skip the little self-care rituals we did once before. Or maybe you never had any self care routines and you are trying to prioritize them more. No matter the situation, keeping up with your needs is crucial, so you do not burn out or neglect your priorities. They may seem unimportant but could benefit your well-being a lot in the long run. 

Here are 12 simple self care ideas when you need a daily refresh.

Simple Self Care Ideas to Get You Through the Day

While many people think of self care as booking a spa day or taking a vacation, it is actually something you can practice in small ways every day. These simple self care ideas can easily fit into your daily routine and improve your mental health.

1. Take A Shower

This one may seem like a no-brainer for some of us. When you get stuck in a slump, doing even the simplest activities can be challenging. Making sure you get up daily and take care of your hygiene can help boost your mood. It can start your day off feeling refreshed and productive and end your day feeling relaxed by rinsing away today’s worries. 

To make this an even more relaxing time, try taking a bath. You can light some candles or get fun things like bath bombs to make this feel like a special moment in your day. No matter how small this step may be in your day, make it enjoyable since it is purely you-time.

2. Stay Hydrated

While going throughout our day, drinking water can slip our minds. It may not seem like an important task to remember, but it helps your body function at its best every day. The adequate fluid intake for men is 15.5 cups per day and 11.5 cups for women. 

If you find it hard to drink the right amount of water every day, you can try infusing them. Put your favorite fruits or mint to add that little extra flavor. Or you might just need a fun water bottle. Finding a reusable bottle you love could help increase your water intake.

3. Indulge In a Skincare Routine

Taking care of your skin can make you feel more refreshed and productive. Using new luxurious skin care products could give you a pick-me-up whether it is in the moring or night. When doing a morning skincare routine, it can look a little different than at night. Setting up a ritual for morning and night pampering may be exactly what you need for some extra self-care time.

4. Meet With Friends

When a lot is happening in everyone’s lives, you may feel you never get to see the people you love. Reach out and plan something fun or relaxing with your friends. It is easy to get wrapped up in work or school and miss out on making memories with your loved ones. With today’s technology, you don’t even have to meet up but plan a time to talk on the phone. The laughter and catch-up talks may just be the self-care you need that day.

5. Listen to Music

Music is a great way to destress after a long day. Research shows that music as therapy can help mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Turning up the tunes on your commute back from work or even in the shower is a great way to improve your mental health and boost your mood.  

6. Stretch

Stretching is a very simple way to get your body moving throughout the day. Whether you do a full routine to start your morning or just a few movements at your desk throughout the work day, it can make a huge difference. Stretching is an underrated way to keep your body in shape and prevent you from feel stiff and sore, especially if you sit at work all day.

7. Exercise Your Eyes

Did you know you can reduce your eye strain by exercising your eyeballs? Many of us work on a computer most of the day and likely go home to watch TV or scroll on our phones. Screen time can take a serious toll on our eye health, but you can help relieve strain through simpel eye exercises. Try rolling your eyes or gently placing your palms over your eyelids for 30 to 60 seconds throughout the day.

8. Try Breathing Exercises

During a busy day, you may not have the time for a full yoga session, but you can experience similar benefits through quick breathing exercises. When you’re feeling stressed, try this strategy:

1. Relax your upper body.
2. With your mouth closed, inhale slowly for two counts.
3. Purse your lips and exhale for four counts.

9. Step Outside

Even just a few minutes of fresh air can turn your mood around. Did you have a tense call with a client? Or get in an argument with your partner? Walk outside for a few minutes. Bonus points if you practice the breathing exercise mentioned above.

10. Make Your Bed

On the toughest days, even something as simple as making the bed can seem like an impossible task. However, completing this two-minute task can give you a sense of accomplishment. We all know how satisfying it can be to cross something off the to-do list, and finishing this one thing can motivate you to take on bigger responsibilities.

11. Make a Plans for the Future

Do you feel stuck in a rut? One way to break out of a boring routine is to put some fun plans on the calendar. You can text a friend and invite them to hang out next week, or even just make a plan with yourself. Schedule a solo date at a museum or coffee shop. If you write it down on your calendar, you’ll be more likely to follow through, and it’ll give you something to look forward to.

12. Play With Your Pet

Your furry friend is the perfect companion to brighten your mood. While going for a walk or playing fetch can seem like a chore sometimes, these activities have benefits for both of you. Make an effort to spend quality time with your pet every day.

Prioritize Yourself

Self-care is never selfish. Adding these simple self care ideas daily can change your everyday life and a great way to make sure you prioritize your well-being. Find which is best for you and what would make your days better. 

Originally Published 1/6/2023 – Updated 3/11/2025