Picture this: you’re cozied up next to a warm radiator, immersed in a captivating book, sipping peppermint tea, and snacking on delightful sugar cookies. As a child, this was my go-to remedy for a tough day.
Unbeknownst to me at that time, I had already crafted my own little self-care survival kit—complete with Harry Potter novels and my favorite peppermint tea—long before I understood the true essence of self-care.
If you’re looking to be kinder to yourself, creating a self-care kit is a fantastic place to begin.
What is a Self-Care Kit?
Envision it as a collection of items and activities that enhance your well-being. These are the tools that help you unwind, find relaxation, and spark joy—much more than just a beloved face mask, although a multi-step skincare regimen often ranks high on my list of self-care priorities.
It’s an embrace of greater self-love, integrating care for your body and mind into your daily routine.
Why Do I Need One?
I believe everyone should have a self-care kit, especially for those who find it challenging to slow down and prioritize personal well-being.
Self-care doesn’t always mean taking a day off work to luxuriate in a bath. It can be as simple as savoring your favorite tea, enjoying a stroll, or having your lunch outdoors during a break. When I stress the importance of self-care, I often hear, “I don’t have time for this,” which is precisely why you should treat self-care as you would any essential task—schedule it in.
After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
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For the Mind
In a recent post, I discussed the benefits of brain-dumping before sleep. This is a practice I find incredibly helpful when feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Journaling, writing, and meditating are excellent ways to declutter your mind during challenging moments. Just as caring for your body is crucial, nurturing your emotional health is equally important. If journaling isn’t your style, consider jotting down everything that weighs on your mind—your fears, stressors—on a piece of paper, then read it and tear it up as a symbolic release.
Reading is another wonderful way to unwind, even if you can only manage a few chapters before bed. I’ve been an avid fan of audiobooks for several years, so I always keep a set of earbuds handy in my kit. The Harry Potter audiobooks are my personal go-to, offering a comforting escape when I need a break. Perhaps it’s the nostalgia of simpler childhood days that draws me in.
Consider what activities help you clear your mind. Maybe you enjoy drawing or painting and want to keep some art supplies in your kit?
For the Body
We often take our bodies for granted. Personally, I became acutely aware of my body’s importance after I injured my back in a recent accident. I realized just how much I relied on my physical ability to do simple things—like laundry or walking my dog—until pain made those tasks difficult. Your body works tirelessly for you, so treat it with kindness and respect. Massage balls and stress-relief balls can be great additions to your kit when you only have a few minutes to relax.
Include your favorite bath or body care products in your self-care kit. A soothing scrub, a dry brush, or some magnesium oil can work wonders for muscle relaxation. Additionally, keep cozy clothing like your favorite pajamas, which feel soft against your skin, readily available. If you’re having a rough day, toss your PJs in the dryer briefly and slip into them after work or school. Gentle stretching, yoga, or a walk through the park can also be rejuvenating during stressful weeks.
For the Soul
Consider your favorite recipes, books, music, or guided meditations—whatever nourishes your spirit. Personally, I find immense joy in making banana bread whenever my day isn’t going well, so I keep the recipe on an index card in my self-care kit. Although I enjoy cooking, baking isn’t my forte. Banana bread is a simple dish I know how to make, and the warm scent of banana, cinnamon, and nutmeg always lifts my spirits.
You might also include cherished photographs, uplifting affirmations, quotes, or trinkets in your kit—anything that evokes happy memories or feelings. For me, scents of lavender and peppermint are particularly soothing, so I often diffuse these essential oils when reading or enjoying a bath. Instead of tangible items, you might also write simple reminders for yourself, such as: go for a run, meditate, call a friend, take a long bath, etc.
Do remember that self-care is not a *one-size-fits-all* approach; it should be tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle. Not everyone can afford to spend an entire afternoon indulging themselves. Sometimes, even a brief daily meditation session can significantly lower stress levels and bring a sense of calm. Treat yourself with kindness and gentleness.
What are some of your favorite activities or items when you practice self-care?
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