Self-care is supposed to be soothing, but it can often feel extremely pressurising. The endless suggestions about bubble baths, face masks, journaling every night, and scheduling in yoga can leave anyone rolling their eyes. At this point, the idea of sitting down to “care for yourself” can feel more like an obligation than an actual relief. It’s less like a genuine tool for well-being and more like one more thing to add to an already packed to-do list.
But here’s the thing—taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical health doesn’t have to involve a bunch of rituals you can’t get on board with. It’s not about following someone else’s version of self-care; it’s about doing what works for you. If the typical self-care suggestions don’t appeal to you, don’t worry—there are plenty of other ways to nurture yourself that don’t require a Pinterest-perfect routine. Here are a few things you might already be doing (or could start doing) that are just as effective for maintaining your mental and emotional health, without all the gimmicks.
Get off your sofa or stand up from your desk and go outside.
If you’re not a fan of ‘mindfulness walks’ or spending time in nature just to “clear your head,” that’s okay. But here’s the thing—spending even a few minutes outside can do wonders for your mental health. Whether it’s walking around the block or just standing on your balcony to get some fresh air, nature has a way of grounding you. You don’t need to go on a hike or plan a full outdoor retreat. Simply stepping outside for a breather can help reset your brain, calm your nerves, and provide a small but effective mental refresh.
Say know when you need (or want) to.
One of the most effective ways to take care of yourself is to simply stop saying yes to everything. Constantly overcommitting to things or people can drain your energy and lead to burnout. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, practice saying “no” without guilt. You don’t have to take on more than you can handle. Setting boundaries in a healthy way is one of the most powerful forms of self-care you can practise. It may not look like traditional self-care, but it’s exactly what you need to keep your mental health in check.
Talk to someone you trust.
You don’t need a therapist to unload your feelings, though they can be pretty helpful. Just talking to a friend, colleague, or even your mum or dad can be incredibly therapeutic. Sometimes, you just need someone who’ll listen, without offering unsolicited advice or judgements. Opening up about what’s on your mind can help you process your emotions, put things in perspective, and remind you that you’re not alone in how you’re feeling. Sometimes, just saying “I’m having a rough day” can be all it takes to release some of the mental weight you’re carrying.
Take a break from your phone for a bit.
Constant notifications, emails, and the lure of social media can create a sense of mental clutter. If you hate the whole idea of ‘digital detoxes,’ that’s fine—but try giving yourself a small break from screens. Whether it’s an hour, a few hours, or a whole day, stepping away from your phone or computer can help quiet your mind. You’d be surprised how quickly your mental state can improve when you aren’t constantly bombarded with information and expectations. Plus, it leaves room for you to focus on the things that really matter—like your thoughts, your needs, or that book you’ve been meaning to read.
Tidy up a little.
I know, I know—cleaning doesn’t sound like self-care, especially when you feel like you have zero energy. But hear me out: there’s something incredibly calming about having a tidy space, even if it’s just one small area. It doesn’t have to be a full-on decluttering session—just tidying up your desk, making your bed, or washing a few dishes can create a sense of order that helps calm your mind. It’s like giving yourself permission to breathe in a space that feels a little more peaceful.
Laugh, even if it’s forced.
Laughter really is one of the best medicines. On those days when everything feels heavy, and you can’t imagine laughing, try forcing it. Watch a funny video, listen to a comedy podcast, or think back to a time when something made you genuinely laugh. Even if it starts out fake, it’s surprising how quickly your body catches up. Laughter triggers endorphins and lowers stress, so even a brief chuckle can make a big difference. It doesn’t need to be a full comedy night—just a little laugh can break the tension.
Do something creative, without pressure.
You don’t have to be the next Picasso to benefit from doing something creative. Whether it’s doodling on the back of a napkin, cooking something new, or rearranging your furniture, creativity allows you to express yourself and tap into a different side of your brain. Doing something creative without the pressure of “doing it right” can give you a mental break, boost your mood, and give you a sense of accomplishment—without the stress.
Do some exercise, but make it something you actually enjoy.
You don’t have to commit to an hour-long workout or follow a strict fitness regimen. Sometimes, just moving your body in a way that feels good is all it takes to reset your mental health. This might mean dancing to your favourite song in the living room, doing a few stretches, or going for a brisk walk. Physical activity releases endorphins, helping to lift your mood, and it doesn’t have to be a chore. Listen to your body and do what feels right, not what you think you should be doing.
Get your thoughts out of your head.
If journaling feels like a burden, try a quicker version: brain-dumping. Grab a piece of paper or open a note on your phone, and write down everything that’s floating around in your head. You don’t need structure, you don’t need full sentences—just get your thoughts out. It’s a simple way to clear mental space without any pressure to write beautifully or introspect deeply. Writing everything down can help you feel lighter, calmer, and more organised.
Allow yourself to do nothing.
It’s easy to feel guilty for doing nothing—especially when you’re already stressed or overwhelmed. But there’s a lot of power in allowing yourself to simply be. Sitting still, taking a break, or even having a nap without any guilt can be incredibly restorative. Doing nothing is a form of self-care in its purest form because it allows your mind and body to just exist without expectation. Sometimes, the best way to recharge is by stepping away from the need to constantly do something.
Practise saying “I need help.”
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t ask for help as much as you should. Whether it’s work-related stress or personal challenges, trying to handle everything on your own can quickly wear you down. Saying “I need help” isn’t a weakness—it’s a form of self-awareness and strength. Asking for support can lighten your load and bring other people into the fold, making you feel less alone.
Allow yourself to feel however you feel.
On tough days, it’s easy to tell yourself to “snap out of it” or “get over it,” but feelings aren’t something you can simply switch off. Allow yourself to feel what you’re feeling—whether that’s sadness, frustration, or just feeling a little off. Emotions don’t need to be fixed or ignored; they need to be felt. Allowing yourself to experience them without judgement can help you process them in a healthier way.
Let go of the “shoulds.”
Stop holding yourself to unrealistic standards. You don’t have to feel a certain way or act a certain way just because you think it’s what you should do. Let go of the “shoulds” and give yourself the space to just be. Whether it’s about how much work you’re getting done or how much energy you’re supposed to have, release the expectations you’ve placed on yourself. Be real with yourself and allow yourself to exist without the pressure of perfection.
