10 Ways to Treat Yourself to a Self-Care Day

A lot of times we think that taking care of ourselves only involves eating a salad or going for a run. 

In reality, self-care involves a lot more than just eating healthy or working out. 

Yes, that’s definitely a part of it, but a lot of times we forget to take care of our mental health too. 

Or we think that a self-care day means spending lots of money on a spa day, which is also not the case. 

For that reason, I’m sharing some great ways to treat yourself to a self-care day, in a variety of budgets! 

1. Exercise 

Working out releases endorphins. Endorphins make you happy and happy people just don’t shoot their husbands! 

Okay, Legally Blonde joke aside, exercise does release endorphins and bring a feeling of joy. 

Of course there’s times during the workout where the last thing on your mind is joy, but once you’re done, it’s the best feeling ever!

There’s a reason why “runner’s high” is a thing. Though don’t ask me about it, I avoid running like the plague! 

I do, however, experience feelings of joy and accomplishment after completing a workout I enjoy, like Barre or HIIT (yeah I’m crazy I know). 

So start your day off by working out. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy, just get your body moving and you’ll feel the results. 

2. Take a bath

Grab a bathbomb, essential oils, or anything else you may have and treat yourself to a nice, warm bath. 

There’s something so relaxing about just sitting in the water and breathing deeply. 

Sometimes I’ll even play relaxing music and drink a glass of wine. 

3. Roll it out

A few months ago I bought a face roller and I’ve been using it ever since. 

It’s great for depuffing your face and eyes, limphatic drainage, and overall feels amazing. 

I try to use it every morning and night, though I admit there’s times I forget. 

It’s also amazing when I get headaches and I just lie down while rolling my face. 

4. Relax with a massage

Although this one’s a bit more expensive, it’s worth every penny. 

Having a spa day and treating yourself to a nice massage is a fantastic way to relax. 

There’s a lot of different types of massages but my favorite has to be the traditional Swedish massage. 

It’s also really nice when you pair the massage with a facial! 

If you can afford it, try treating yourself to a massage once a month! You’ll feel so much better afterwards. 

And if you’d rather go with a more affordable route, get yourself a face mask and ask your significant other to give you a massage!

5. Treat yourself to a mani & pedi

Along with a massage, this one is not necessarily on the free/affordable side, but it’s also worth it!

I’m a firm believer in having presentable-looking nails at all times, so a mani and pedi is a great investment. 

Plus, it feels so nice to get a hand and foot massage at the same time. 

6. Read a book

Reading a book is a great way to relax and decompress. 

It helps distract you while at the same time getting immersed in a different world. 

If you’re into self-help or motivational books, it’s even better because it’ll give you that extra push and positivity. 

7. Call a loved one

Calling a friend or family member is a great way to reconnect and strengthen relationships, while also allowing you to vent and relax. 

I love calling my friends and family and making it a “virtual” hangout. 

8. Have a dance party

It’s totally okay to turn the music up and dance like no one’s watching! 

I love listening to music whenever I feel stressed and dancing it out is one of my favorite ways to release built-up tension.

Much like exercise, dancing releases endorphins which as we already know, make you happy.

9. Play with a pet

If you know me, you know I love my dog, Ollie, more than anything in this world. 

He’s my best friend and the joy he brings to my life has no limits.

If you have a pet, take him or her on a walk or to the park and play for a while.

Not only is it super fun for your pet but you’ll be so happy to see him or her so happy.

And if you don’t have a pet just visit a friend with one or try volunteering at a shelter. Those four-legged furries will be so happy to see you there.

10. Meditate

Meditating might sound intimidating at first. I know I thought I couldn’t handle it for a while.

But once you practice and really work on letting go and just focusing on the meditation, the reward is amazing.

You’ll feel so much more connected to your body and mind, and you’ll feel so relaxed and calm.

My personal favorites are Karena’s meditations from Tone It Up, but I’ve also tried Headspace and it was really good. 

Hope you enjoyed these 10 ways to treat yourself to a self-care day and if you have any others you enjoy, feel free to comment below!