Taking care of yourself is the first step toward managing your emotions, overcoming challenges, and cultivating healthy relationships with yourself and the people you care about.

I love writing about self-care and sharing simple, practical tips on my blog and Tuesday Museletter. 

Don’t get me wrong, I love bubble baths and face masks, but today I want to introduce unconventional self-care methods.

1. Challenge your negative thoughts 

Our brains can get stuck in negative thought loops. And you have the power to interrupt these patterns. A reframing exercise could do miracles. When you notice yourself thinking something negative, try rephrasing it to sound more neutral or positive.

Instead of “I’ll never be good at clearing my mind and meditating,” reframe it as “Mediating is a skill I can develop with practice.” 😉

2. Embrace the digital detox

We’re constantly bombarded by information, so take tech-free breaks throughout your day. You can even consider using an app that limits the screen time or turning on “don’t disturb” mode. 

Turn off your notifications and dedicate some self-care time to tech-free activities. Use that time to read a book, do a jigsaw puzzle, spend time with loved ones, or have some quiet reflection time. Meet with friends or attend an intimate event like my Creative HUB gathering (once a month in Manassas, VA). 

3. Declutter your decisions 

Decision fatigue is a real thing. ✋ Create routines for hassle-free choices to save mental energy. To prevent the daily “what’s for dinner?” or “what to wear?” dilemma, make a meal plan or plan your clothes for the coming week on Sundays or the day before.

List your next day’s goals in your planner, so you can jump-start your day. 

4. Spend time in nature (even a little) 

Immersing yourself in nature has proven to have mental health benefits. If you can’t manage a hike or camping trip, find micro-doses of nature. 

Sit in a park for lunch, visit a botanic garden, walk around the neighborhood, and focus on the sights and sounds. You can bring a houseplant into your workspace or keep a small herb garden in your kitchen.

5. Celebrate small victories

When it comes to self-care, we often focus on tangible goals. But it’s important to acknowledge small achievements too. Have you finally overcome your fear of public speaking? Did you show up for your language classes on Duolingo? Did you master a new recipe? Celebrate these wins!

After you finish a difficult task you’ve been putting off, treat yourself to something other than food. Take a relaxing bath, buy yourself a book or flowers, or spend an afternoon at the museum.

These self-care tips focus on small, creative ways to manage stress and improve well-being.

Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity. 

The last thing I want to share is The Little Book of Self-Care for… (put your astrological sign here). I have one for Taurus, and I absolutely love it. I even bought one for my husband. 😅

Share what unconventional self-care practices work for you in the comments below.