Self-care? Ain’t nobody got time for that!

If you’re like me, the first thing that comes to mind for self-care is always something that requires leaving the house for hours AND spending money. Massages, nail salons or beauty parlors automatically pop into my head. Then the immediate next thoughts are, “I can’t leave these kids alone that long,” “Can I afford it?” and “I can’t find a babysitter at the last minute.”

What if I told you self-care can be free, quick and done at home? Would you believe me? Trust me, I wouldn’t lie to you.

Let’s get into some quick ways to care for you.

1. Take six-ty: One minute is all you need for a quick reset. Find a quiet spot (car, closet, bathroom), close your eyes, take some deep breaths and release some stress.

2. Start a gratitude journal: Write down 3 things you are grateful for on the daily.

3. Mantras or daily affirmations: Find motivational quotes that hype you up. Say it with your chest and push through.

4. Stretch it out: Not full-on yoga, just a neck stretch or shoulder roll can work wonders.

5. Don’t be thirsty: Stay hydrated to fight fatigue. Make your H2O more refreshing by adding flavored electrolytes (sugar-free preferably), fruits or even cucumber or herbs.

6. Hand massage: Yes, a massage you can do yourself that will provide some relief. Grab your favorite lotion and apply a little pressure.

7. Square breathing: It’s new to me too. Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, and hold for 4 seconds.  Don’t pass out!

8. Jam on it: I know you have Apple Music, Pandora, Amazon music, YouTube or something…Put on your favorite song to sing and dance the stress away.

9. Smell-good therapy: Light your favorite candle, smell some essential oils, spray your fav perfume, it’s amazing how the atmosphere can shift.

10. Comfort in a cup: Brew up your fav coffee or tea. Savor each and every sip.

11. Imaginative escape: Open a book or listen to a podcast to use your imagination and escape reality – even if it’s just for 5 minutes.

12. Straighten up: Not the whole house, just a corner – like your nightstand, a bookshelf, that table in the kitchen where all your mail lands. Just something that takes minimal effort and won’t be overwhelming.

13. Talk to yourself: You might be the only sane person in the room (J/K). But really, encourage yourself by telling yourself something positive.

14. Create a “You Did That, Queen” list: To-do lists can be cool, but also overwhelming. Try celebrating your wins, even the small ones, by writing down what you accomplished that day. Made your bed? Vacuumed the living room? Made dinner? Write it down!

15. Visualize peace: Barney taught us how to use our imagination (Did I just tell my age?) Use it to take you to a peaceful place or moment.

16. Digital detox: Put the phone down! Unless you’re reading this on your phone, in that case, finish this first, then put the phone away for about 10 minutes to relax your eyes and mind.

17. Furbaby comfort: If you have a pet (that will let you snuggle with them) love on them and boop their noses. If your pet is violent or aquatic, try a pillow or stuffed animal.

18. Scan your body: Mentally scan from head to toe and notice where you’re tight. Breathe purposefully to relieve the tension in that area.

19. Face splash: Using cold water for energy or warm water for comfort, a small splash of water can serve a big purpose.

20. Check up on ‘em: Send a loved one a “Thinking of you” text, not a “Hey, big head,” one.

21. Have boundaries: Say no to things beyond your mental capacity or things that don’t serve you.

22. Get artistic: Grab some paper and a pen, doodle some shapes, or get a coloring book and make your inner child happy.

23. Splish splash: Take a bath. Add some essential oils like lavender or vanilla and let Calgon take you away. (Ugh, another old reference y’all might not get.)

24. Touch grass: Step outside for a quick moment to touch grass, get some fresh air and ground yourself.

25. Sleep: Or maybe you just need a nap. That’s self-explanatory.

It’s not always about spending money or leaving for hours. Fit these quick self-care practices into your day to recharge and nurture yourself.