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July 24, 2025—The term self-care gets a bad rap sometimes. It may conjure up thoughts of taking long bubble baths or spending money on luxuries that you may regret later. But at its essence, self-care is taking good, regular care of your body and mind so you can be the best version of yourself.

Why indulge in self-care?

The fact is, self-care is not an indulgence at all—it's a necessary part of your day. It helps you take charge of your health and wellness, says the World Health Organization. Self-care also makes it easier for you to focus on what's important to you. And it can reduce your stress and boost your mood. In short, you have nothing to lose by setting aside time each day for self-care.

Self-care start-up tips

If you think you don't have time for self-care, think again. Many of these tips take only a few minutes. When you do have more time, you can step up your self-care strategy. Think of it as a good investment in your health.

Move your body. The American Heart Association recommends that you get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise each day. If that sounds overwhelming, just do as much as you can when you can. You'll start to see your active minutes add up. For instance, take a brisk, 10-minute walk around the block. Climb several flights of stairs. Do some shoulder rolls and stretches at your desk. Turn your sitting work meeting into a walking one.

Go outside. Being in nature, even if it's just your backyard, can help relax your mind, slow down the flow of negative or anxious thoughts, and give your eyes a welcome rest from staring at screens. Bring nature to your desk in the form of a houseplant or bouquet.

Breathe deeply. Try this breathing exercise: Breathe in for three seconds, hold your breath for three seconds and slowly breathe out for three seconds. Repeat this for a full minute or two and notice how much more relaxed you feel. Use this quick exercise several times a day, especially when you're feeling stressed.

Plan ahead. Your mornings are likely to flow more easily if you prepare for them the night before, says the National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability. Lay out the clothes you're going to wear, pack your lunch for the next day and program your coffee maker. On the weekends, take a few minutes to prep weekday meals in advance to help dinner come together more quickly when you're tired and hungry.

Maintain your health. If you're overdue for preventive care, schedule a visit with your doctor. Find out what your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose levels are—and what they should be—and talk with your doctor about any health concerns you have.

Sources

• American Heart Association. "Self-Care Is Not Self-Indulgent, and You Can Start Now With These Tips." https://www.heart.org/en/news/2022/09/12/self-care-is-not-self-indulgent-and-you-can-start-now-with-these-tips.
• HelpGuide. "Self-Care Tips to Prioritize Your Mental Health." https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/wellbeing/self-care-tips-to-prioritize-your-mental-health.
• National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability. "Bringing Nature to You and the Benefits of Being Outdoors." https://www.nchpad.org/resources/my-scorecard-outdoor-time-in-nature.
• National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability. "Forget Bubble Baths: Self-Care Ideas That Help You Function." https://www.nchpad.org/resources/forget-bubble-baths-self-care-ideas-that-help-you-function.
• National Institute of Mental Health. "Caring for Your Mental Health." https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health.
• World Health Organization. "Self-Care Month 2025." https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2025/06/24/default-calendar/self-care-month-2025.