What Is Self-Care? Types, Methods, and Simple Ways to Get Started

Self-Care Isn’t Selfish: It’s Essential

In today’s fast-paced world, the term self-care often gets tossed around in ways that make it seem like a luxury or indulgence—think bubble baths and spa days. While those can certainly be part of a self-care routine, true self-care runs much deeper. As a clinical psychologist, I work with clients every day on developing sustainable, meaningful self-care practices that nourish the whole person.

Let’s break down what self-care really means, why it matters, and how you can practice it across different areas of your life.

What Is Self-Care?

At its core, self-care refers to the intentional actions you take to support your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. It’s not about escaping life—it’s about creating space to restore, recharge, and live in alignment with your values.

Good self-care isn’t one-size-fits-all. What helps one person recharge might feel like a chore to someone else. That’s why understanding the different types of self-care is so helpful—you can tailor your routine to what you genuinely need.

Identify What Types of Self-Care Work Best for You!

Types of Self-Care and Practical Examples

1. Emotional Self-Care

This type involves tending to your inner emotional world—acknowledging feelings, expressing them, and treating yourself with compassion.

Examples:

❇️Journaling about your day or emotions

❇️Seeing a therapist or joining a support group

❇️Practicing self-compassion during moments of stress

❇️Allowing yourself to cry or feel vulnerable

2. Physical Self-Care

Physical self-care is about taking care of your body so it can take care of you.

Examples:

❇️Prioritizing sleep (7–9 hours a night)

❇️Moving your body in enjoyable ways (walking, yoga, dancing)

❇️Nourishing your body with balanced meals

❇️Attending regular medical checkups

3. Mental/Intellectual Self-Care

This involves stimulating your mind and managing your mental health.

Examples:

❇️Reading a book or listening to an inspiring podcast

❇️Setting healthy boundaries with social media

❇️Learning something new—like a hobby or language

❇️Practicing mindfulness or meditation to quiet racing thoughts

4. Social Self-Care

Humans are wired for connection. Social self-care helps you build and maintain supportive relationships.

Examples:

❇️Scheduling a coffee date or phone call with a friend

❇️Setting boundaries with draining relationships

❇️Joining a club or community group

❇️Asking for help when you need it

5. Spiritual Self-Care

This doesn’t have to be religious—it’s about connecting to something greater, whatever that means to you.

Examples:

❇️Spending time in nature

❇️Practicing gratitude

❇️Meditating or praying

❇️Reflecting on your core values and purpose

6. Practical Self-Care

Often overlooked, this type of self-care includes the daily tasks that reduce stress in the long run.

Examples:

❇️Organizing your finances

❇️Meal prepping for the week

❇️Creating a calming morning or evening routine

❇️Setting reminders or using planners to reduce mental clutter

How to Start a Self-Care Practice That Actually Works

1. Start small. You don’t need a perfect routine—just begin with one area and build from there.

2. Be honest about what helps. If journaling makes you more anxious, skip it. If sitting in silence calms you, do more of that.

3. Make it consistent. Self-care isn't a reward for burnout—it’s a foundation to prevent it.

4. Check in with yourself regularly. Your needs will change over time. That’s normal.

Final Thoughts: Self-Care Is a Skill You Can Build

Self-care isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it means doing hard things—like saying no, going to therapy, or confronting unhealthy habits. But it’s always worth it.

Whether you’re managing anxiety, coping with a major life change, or just trying to feel more grounded day to day, self-care is one of the most important gifts you can give yourself.