Teaching Self-care takes many forms and is a crucial piece of mental wellness.

Checking your feelings during and after a self-care activity can help you know what works well for you. Some activities are nourishing, depending on how you are feeling that day.

 

 

Here are eight types of self-care and examples to consider:

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PHYSICAL SELF-CARE

Self-care has to do with feeling physically well and maintaining physical health.

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• Sleep or rest

• Stretching, walking, or exercise that feels good

• Keeping medical appointments

• Healthy food

• Fresh air

 

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EMOTIONAL SELF-CARE

Self-care involves attending to your emotions, finding empathy and self-compassion, and seeking help when needed.

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• Journal or talk it out

• Stress management

• Listen to or make music/art

• Self-compassion

• Counseling

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SOCIAL SELF-CARE

Self-care has to do with a healthy family and social relationships.

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• Time with others (in person or virtually)

• Healthy Boundaries

• Balancing alone time and social time (or small groups and large groups)

• Positive social media

• Asking for help

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SPIRITUAL SELF-CARE

Self-care has to do with religious beliefs or spirituality.

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• Connection

• Prayer or meditation

• Reflection

• Attending worship services or groups (if applicable)

• Nature

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PERSONAL SELF-CARE

Self-care has to do with knowing and honoring yourself and what you enjoy.

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• Listening to yourself (getting out of autopilot)

• Hobbies

• Treating yourself

• Trying something new

• Getting to know yourself

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HOME ENVIRONMENT SELF-CARE

Self-care involves maintaining a safe, functional, and comfortable home environment.

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• Safety

• Security and stability

• Cleaning and organizing (whatever that means for you)

• Comfy space

• Healthy living environment

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FINANCIAL SELF-CARE

Self-care has to do with maintaining your financial goals and obligations.

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• Money management and budgeting

• Saving

• Seeking help or information

• “Fun” money

• Paying bills

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WORK, SCHOOL, CAREGIVING, OR OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

Self-care has to do with attending to your needs in the realms of work, school, caregiving, or other responsibilities.

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• Time management

• Feeling productive and valued

• Learning and developing skills (and seeking help when needed)

• Healthy work boundaries and communication

• Break time

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