In this post: Are you too busy? No more excuses. These 10-minute self-care ideas can help you take a breather and increase your energy and focus. Try these small moments of self care when you need a quick pick-me-up.
“Uuuggh, I feel so overwhelmed,” my co-worker said with both hands on her head. “I need a break, even just a small one.”
There’s no doubt about it, life can get pretty chaotic. With all of the demands that come with being an adult, sometimes it can be really hard to find time for yourself.
Today, self-care has become even more critical as we navigate a fast-paced and often stressful world. As women, we often put our needs last or just don’t make time for ourselves at all.
But if you carve out even 10 minutes a day for some self care, it can make a world of difference.
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How To Practice Self Care
Practicing self care is an important aspect of caring for yourself, mind, body and soul. Sad to say, you can overlook taking care of yourself due to the everyday hustle and bustle of life.
But, let’s look at the bright side. There are many 10 minute self care ideas that are not only easy to squeeze into your busy day but are also beneficial for your well-being.
The best way to start practicing self-care is to identify activities that work for you. Pinpoint those activities that bring you healing, calm, relaxation and joy. Then make them a consistent part of your routine.
Self-care can look different on any given day which is the beauty of it so don’t limit yourself. Just find what feels right and support you in living authentically.
Here are some quick and easy self-care ideas that can be done in 10 minutes or less.
10 Minute Self Care In the Morning
These 10 minutes of taking care of yourself in the morning can be used in various ways, depending on what speaks to your lifestyle.
Whatever you choose to do, make sure it is something that nourishes your mind, body, or soul. These short but intentional act of self-care can set a positive tone for the rest of your day and help you feel more centered and focused.
Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish, but rather an essential part of living a balanced and fulfilling life.
1. Set Your Intentions For The Day
As soon as you wake up, take a few moments to check in on how you’re feeling. Then take a few minutes to set your intentions for the day.
This can help you to clarify your goals and priorities, making the most of your day.
2. Give Yourself Positive Affirmations
Spend a few minutes reciting positive affirmations to yourself, which can assist in building your self-confidence, improve your self-esteem, and help you to start your day on a positive note.
3. Drink Warm Water With Lemon
Warm water with lemon helps to stimulate your digestive system and boost your immune system. It promotes hydration and helps to replenish your body with essential fluids after a night of sleep.
4. Take The Time To Stretch
Dedicate 10 minutes in the morning to stretch. It encourages increased blood flow and circulation throughout your body, which can leave you feeling more alert and energized.
When you take just a few minutes to do your stretches, you may find that you are better equipped to handle the challenges of the day ahead with a clearer and more focused mind.
5. Practice Gratitude
Practicing gratitude in the morning can have a positive impact on your mood and mindset throughout the day.
By taking a few moments to reflect on the things you are thankful for, you can cultivate a sense of appreciation and contentment that can help you approach your day with a more positive attitude.
6. Visualization
Visualization is a powerful tool that can be useful in the achievement of your goals. Spend a few minutes visualizing your goals and aspirations for the day ahead.
This can help you gain clarity on what’s important to you, which can help to increase motivation, creativity, and productivity throughout the day.
7. Take A Walk
Take a 10 minute walk outside in the morning. This can help you get some fresh air and sunlight, increase your energy levels, and improve your mood.
Even though it’s just a short walk, it can contribute to lower your stress levels, reducing feelings of anxiety and helping you feel more relaxed and refreshed.
8. Cold Shower
Taking a cold shower in the morning is a great way to wake up your body, increase your alertness, and improve your circulation.
Studies have shown that it stimulates the release of endorphins, which can enhance your mood and also reduce feelings of stress or anxiety.
But also, practicing the discipline of enduring discomfort can build mental toughness and resilience. This, in turn, allows you to tackle challenges with greater ease throughout the day
8. Eat Breakfast
Eating breakfast is crucial for nourishing your body and brain with the necessary fuel to start your day off right.
It’s known to kick-start your metabolism, which assists in regulating your blood sugar level and keeps your energy level stable throughout the day.
10 Minute Self Care In The Afternoon
Taking some time in the afternoon to take care of yourself, can have a multitude of benefits. It can help you recharge and refocus for the rest of the day. Prioritizing your own well-being throughout the day can help you feel more productive overall. Let’s take a look at some of these activities.
1. Breathing Exercises
Taking a few minutes of deep breathing exercises for 10 minutes in the afternoon can help reduce stress and anxiety, and improve focus and concentration. Round about lunch time would be a great opportunity to fit this in.
By taking a few deliberate breaths, you can help reset your mind and body, which can lead to a greater sense of clarity and calm and give you a pick-me-up to face the rest of the day.
2. Enjoy The Sunset
Spend some time outdoors in nature, preferably in the late afternoon and enjoy the sunset. Research has shown that being in nature can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood.
Additionally, getting some fresh air can help regulate your sleep cycle and boost your energy levels. Consider adding a dose of nature to your daily routine.
3. Listen To A Podcast or Audiobook
Spend some time listening to a podcast or audiobook that interests you. This is helpful to stimulate your mind to learn something new and improve your knowledge and understanding.
4. Do A Mini Workout
Instead of hitting the gym or going for a run in the morning, try doing a quick workout in the afternoon. This can boost your energy levels and productivity for the rest of the day.
5. Take A Power Nap
If you’re feeling a bit sluggish in the afternoon, consider taking a 10-minute power nap. This can help you recharge and refocus for the remainder of the day.
6. Try A New Hobby
Use your afternoon as an opportunity to try out a new hobby. It could be anything from painting to learning a new language.
7. Meditate
Take a few minutes to quiet your mind, focus on your breath, and allow yourself to relax. This aids in reducing stress, improving your focus, and boosting your overall well-being.
8. Read A Book
Instead of scrolling through social media or watching TV, try reading a book. This can improve your ability to think and process things as well as reduce stress.
9. Plan For The Next Day
Spend some time planning out your day for tomorrow. From choosing your outfit for the next day to what your meals will be can make it easier for you to be more productive and efficient in the long run.
10. Calligraphy
Try your hand at calligraphy and practice writing out beautiful letters and words. This can be a mindful and meditative activity.
11. Knit Or Crochet
Pick up a knitting or crochet project and spend at least 10 minutes working on it in the afternoon. This can be a creative and calming activity.
12. Creative Writing
Devote 10 minutes of your time to jotting down your thoughts or writing a story, poem, or journal entry.
13. Reading Something Completely Different
Challenge yourself to spend 10 minutes reading a portion of a book or article on a topic you know nothing about or have never explored before.
15. Go For A Swim
If you have access to a pool or a nearby body of water, go for a swim to cool off and get some exercise in the process.
16. Take a Bike Ride
Take a bike ride through your neighborhood and discover new sights and sounds.
14. Playing An Instrument
Pick up an instrument you used to play or start learning a new one.
17. Coloring or Painting
Even if you have only 10 minutes to spare, do some coloring or painting in the afternoon. This can be a fun and creative way to relax and unwind.
18. Help A Neighbor
Help a neighbor with a small task, like carrying groceries, watering plants, or walking their dog.
19. Have A Healthy Snack
Having a healthy snack in the afternoon is a great way to take care of yourself and provide your body with the nourishment it needs to stay energized and focused throughout the day
Consider reaching for a piece of fresh fruit, some raw veggies with hummus, or a handful of nuts to give yourself a quick and satisfying boost. These snacks are not only delicious, but they also provide important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help support your overall health and well-being.
10 minute Self Care In The Night
A self care night routine can be incredibly beneficial. It’s a great way to wind down and prepare your body and mind for a peaceful, restful night’s sleep.
Take a few moments to spend some quality time with yourself and do something that you enjoy, whatever makes your heart happy.
Here are a few practices to get you started.
1. Light Some Candles
Light some candles and take some deep breaths in order to relax further before going to bed.
3. Oil Pulling
Swish some coconut oil in your mouth for 10 minutes to help remove toxins, reduce inflammation, and improve your oral health.
4. Drink Some Calming Tea
Take some time to prepare and enjoy a cup of tea mindfully. This can help you slow down, savor the moment, and reduce stress and anxiety.
2. Journaling
Spend a few minutes writing down your thoughts, feelings, and ideas in a journal to help you clarify your thinking, process your emotions, and cultivate a sense of self-awareness.
5. Brain Games
Got only 10 minutes to spare? Play a brain game, such as Sudoku or crossword puzzles. This can help you improve your cognitive function and boost your mental capacity.
6. Self-Massage
Use a foam roller or massage ball to give yourself a quick massage. This is helpful in reducing muscle tension, improving your circulation, and boosting your overall health.
7. Brain Dumping
Spend a few minutes writing down everything that’s on your mind, which clears your headspace, reduces stress and anxiety, and prepares your body for sleep.
8. Digital detox
Disconnect from all electronic devices and engage in other activities that don’t require a screen.
9. Donate To A Charity Or Nonprofit Organization Online
Many organizations have websites where you can make a donation in just a few minutes.
10. Foot soak
Fill a basin with warm water and add some Epsom salt or essential oils. Soak your feet for 10 minutes to relax your muscles and improve circulation.
11. Face massage
Use a facial roller or your fingertips to gently massage your face in upward motions to stimulate blood flow and reduce puffiness.
12. Skincare
Use a face mask or apply a moisturizing lotion to help nourish your skin and give yourself a little pampering.
10 Minute Self Care On The Weekend
It’s a time to take a step back from the stress and demands of the week and focus on your well-being. 10 minutes self care activities on the weekend are just as important as during the week.
By taking care of yourself on the weekends, you’ll be better equipped to handle the challenges of the week ahead and feel more refreshed and energized.
1. Decluttering
When you take a few minutes to tidy up your space and clear any clutter, this in turn, helps reduce stress and promote a sense of calm.
2. Socializing
Connect with friends or family members and catch up over the phone or in person.
3. Dancing
Spend a few minutes dancing to your favorite music and improve your mood, increase your energy levels, and get your blood pumping.
4. Dry Brushing
Use a dry brush to gently exfoliate your skin and stimulate your lymphatic system. This can help you improve your skin’s appearance and reduce cellulite.
5. Personal Grooming
Spend some time grooming yourself, such as moisturizing your skin, or trimming, filing, and painting your nails.
6. Visualization with Music
Dedicate a few minutes to visualizing your goals and aspirations while listening to calming music.
7. Meal Planning
Go ahead and Plan your meals for the day or week ahead to help you stay on track with your nutrition goals.
8. Visualization Board
Create a visualization board or vision board with pictures and words that represent your goals and aspirations.
9. Aromatherapy Bath
Add some essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus to your bath to create a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
10. DIY Spa Treatments
Instead of buying expensive spa treatments, you can create your own DIY treatments at home using natural ingredients like honey, oatmeal, and essential oils.
Conclusion On 10 Minute Self Care Ideas
Self care doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, sometimes all you need is just 10 minutes out of your day dedicated entirely to yourself.
Engaging in regular self care activities can help you to manage stress, prevent burnout, and improve your physical and mental health, as well as your overall quality of life. You’ll enjoy a greater sense of balance, peace, and happiness.
The great thing about self-care is that there are so many different activities that you can do to take care of yourself, regardless of your interests, abilities, or schedules.
Pick out one thing mentioned above today and start making self-care part and parcel of your daily routine.
