Self Care
Self-Care Is More Than Bubble Baths: Six Areas of Life That Need Your Attention
When you hear the words self-care, what comes to mind?
For many people, self-care brings up images of spa days, candles, face masks, or taking a long nap. While those activities can absolutely be part of caring for yourself, self-care is much bigger than occasional moments of relaxation.
Self-care is about intentionally supporting your overall wellbeing. It involves noticing what you need in different areas, including physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, professionally, and spiritually, and taking small steps to care for yourself in those areas.
I appreciate research by Lee and Miller (2013) that frames self-care as being understood through six different domains. Looking at self-care this way reminds us that wellbeing is not just about resting when we are exhausted; it is about creating habits and choices that help us feel balanced and supported.
1. Physical Self-Care: Caring for Your Body 🩺
Physical self-care involves listening to your body and responding to its needs. It is not about perfection; it is about providing your body with the care it deserves.
Examples of physical self-care include:
Going to bed a little earlier.
Eating a nourishing meal.
Going for a walk or stretching.
Drinking enough water.
Booking the medical or dental appointment you have been putting off.
Taking time to rest when you are tired.
Sometimes the most caring thing we can do is slow down and recognize that our bodies need recovery.
2. Emotional Self-Care: Caring for Your Feelings ❤️
Emotional self-care means making space for your emotions rather than ignoring, avoiding, or judging them. All feelings serve a purpose, and caring for yourself includes allowing yourself to experience them.
Examples of emotional self-care include:
Listening to a song that makes you happy and allowing yourself to enjoy the moment.
Watching a funny video and having a good laugh.
Watching a sad movie and “allowing” yourself to cry.
Talking with someone you trust after a difficult day.
Naming what you are feeling instead of automatically saying, “I’m fine.”
Speaking to yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend.
Emotional wellbeing grows when we learn to acknowledge our feelings with compassion.
3. Psychological Self-Care: Caring for Your Mind 🧠
Psychological self-care focuses on your thoughts, attention, curiosity, and ability to think clearly. It involves activities that support mental stimulation, reflection, and a healthy mindset.
Examples of psychological self-care include:
Reading a book or listening to a podcast that interests you.
Learning something new simply because you are curious.
Taking a break from social media when you notice it is affecting your mindset.
Doing a puzzle or another activity that challenges your brain.
Journaling to organize your thoughts.
Practicing mindfulness (can include activities like colouring) or spending quiet moments without distractions.
Asking yourself, “Is there another way to look at this?” when you feel stuck in negative thinking.
Caring for your mind means creating space to reflect, learn, and reset.
4. Relational Self-Care: Caring for Your Relationships 🤝
Humans are social beings, and our relationships have a significant impact on our wellbeing. Relational self-care involves nurturing healthy connections while also protecting your own needs.
Examples include:
Spending time with people who leave you feeling supported.
Setting healthy boundaries- such as pausing before saying “YES” to something.
Asking for help when you need it.
Reaching out to someone you have not talked to in a while.
Making time for relationships that bring encouragement and connection.
Healthy relationships are built through both connection and boundaries.
5. Professional Self-Care: Caring for Your Work Life 💼
Professional self-care involves creating a healthier relationship with work. Whether you love your job, feel challenged by it, or are simply trying to get through a busy season, your wellbeing matters.
Examples of professional self-care include:
Taking your lunch break.
Logging off when your workday is finished.
Using vacation time you have earned.
Saying no when your workload becomes overwhelming.
Creating boundaries between work and personal time.
Taking care of yourself at work helps prevent burnout and supports long-term wellbeing.
6. Spiritual Self-Care: Connecting With Meaning and Purpose ✨
Spiritual self-care is about connecting with what gives your life meaning. For some people, this may involve religious practices, while for others it may involve personal values, reflection, nature, or service.
Examples include:
Spending time in nature.
Practicing gratitude.
Praying or meditating if this is important to you.
Volunteering for something that matters to you.
Making time for activities that align with what matters most to you.
Spiritual self-care helps us reconnect with our values and the things that bring purpose to our lives.
Self-Care Is About Small, Intentional Steps
Self-care is not about doing everything on this list or creating a perfect wellness routine. It is about paying attention to yourself and noticing which area of your life may need a little extra care.
Some seasons of life may require more physical rest. Other times, you may need stronger boundaries, deeper connections, emotional support, or more time doing things that bring you meaning.
Self-care begins with awareness. It is asking yourself:
“What part of my wellbeing needs a little more attention right now?”
Small, intentional choices can make a meaningful difference.
💬 Question to ask yourself: Which area of self-care could use a little more attention in your life right now?
Reference
Lee, J. J., & Miller, S. E. (2013). A self-care framework for social workers: Building a strong foundation for practice. Families in Society, 94(2), 96–103.
Disclaimer
The content on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reading this blog does not create a therapist-client relationship. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need professional support, please reach out to a licensed mental health professional or contact a crisis helpline. Always consult with a qualified provider regarding any questions or concerns you may have about your mental health.
