What Self-Care Really Means & How to Find What Works for You
Introduction
Self-care is a term that’s often thrown around, especially in the wellness space, but what does it actually mean? Many people associate self-care with face masks, bubble baths, and spa days—and while those things can certainly be forms of self-care, they don’t define it. True self-care is about identifying what nourishes you—mentally, emotionally, and physically—and making time for it in your life.
The reality is that self-care is deeply personal. What works for one person might not work for another, and that’s okay. The key is to find what truly fills your cup and to prioritise it in a way that feels sustainable. In this post, we’ll explore what self-care really means, how to discover what works best for you, and how to integrate self-care into your daily life.
What is Self-Care?
Self-care is any intentional action taken to support your well-being. It encompasses activities that help maintain and improve your mental, emotional, and physical health. It isn’t selfish or indulgent; in fact, practising self-care allows you to show up more fully in your life, whether that’s for yourself, your loved ones, or your work.
Self-care isn’t about escapism or avoidance—it’s about actively taking care of yourself so that you can feel balanced and energised. It’s about knowing when to rest, when to seek joy, and when to set boundaries.
Self-Care is Personal: Finding What Fills Your Cup
One of the biggest misconceptions about self-care is that it looks the same for everyone. In reality, what rejuvenates one person might not have the same effect on someone else. Some people recharge through solitude, while others feel most alive when they’re surrounded by loved ones. Some might find mindfulness or meditation essential, while others feel their best after a long run or creative project.
To figure out what self-care means for you, take a moment to reflect on the following questions:
When do I feel most at peace?
What activities make me feel re-energised?
What small things bring me joy in my daily life?
What do I often neglect that I know would make me feel better?
Your answers to these questions will help you identify what self-care practices truly serve you. The goal isn’t to force yourself into a specific self-care routine because it works for someone else—it’s to create a practice that feels aligned with who you are and what you need.
Common Self-Care Practices (+ Customising for You)
While self-care is unique to everyone, there are some common categories of self-care that can be adapted to fit your individual needs.
1. Physical Self-Care
Taking care of your body is a fundamental aspect of self-care. This can include:
Getting enough sleep
Nourishing your body with healthy food
Moving your body in a way that feels good (walking, yoga, dancing, strength training)
Staying hydrated
Resting when your body needs it
Customisation tip: Not everyone enjoys the gym, and that’s okay! Find a form of movement that you genuinely enjoy rather than one you feel obligated to do.
2. Emotional Self-Care
Your emotional well-being is just as important as your physical health. Some ways to support your emotions include:
Journaling to process feelings
Practising mindfulness or meditation
Seeking therapy or talking to a trusted friend
Setting boundaries to protect your energy
Allowing yourself to feel and express emotions without judgment
Customisation tip: Some people find meditation grounding, while others find it frustrating. If traditional meditation doesn’t work for you, consider alternative mindful practices like colouring, deep breathing, or listening to calming music.
3. Mental Self-Care
Keeping your mind engaged and healthy is an important aspect of self-care. Some ideas include:
Reading a book that inspires you
Learning something new (a hobby, language, or skill)
Taking breaks from social media or technology
Practising gratitude and positive affirmations
Customisation tip: Mental self-care doesn’t have to be about productivity. If learning a new skill feels overwhelming rather than nourishing, choose something more relaxing, like enjoying a favourite book or podcast.
4. Social Self-Care
Human connection plays a vital role in well-being. Some ways to nurture social self-care include:
Spending time with supportive friends or family
Reaching out to loved ones for a chat
Joining a group or community with shared interests
Engaging in acts of kindness
Customisation tip: If you’re an introvert, social self-care might look like deep one-on-one conversations rather than large gatherings. Honour what feels right for you.
5. Creative & Joyful Self-Care
Engaging in activities that bring you joy is an underrated but essential part of self-care. This might include:
Painting, writing, or crafting
Playing music or dancing
Exploring nature
Watching your favourite film or show
Cooking a meal you love
Customisation tip: Don’t underestimate the power of fun and play. Doing something just because it makes you happy is a valid and important form of self-care.
Making Self-Care a Habit
It’s easy to let self-care slip through the cracks when life gets busy. To make self-care a consistent part of your routine, try these strategies:
Schedule it – Treat self-care like any other important appointment.
Start small – Even 5–10 minutes a day can make a difference.
Listen to your needs – Some days, self-care might mean rest; other days, it might mean movement or creativity.
Let go of guilt – Prioritising yourself isn’t selfish; it’s necessary.
Download Your Free Self-Care eBook
If you’re looking for more guidance on building a personalised self-care practice, be sure to download the free self-care eBook. Inside, you’ll find more self-care ideas, journaling prompts, and a self-care planner to help you create a routine that works for you.
Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a fundamental part of your well-being. Take the time to explore what truly nourishes you, and remember: the best self-care practice is the one that feels right for you.