27 SELF-CARE ESSENTIALS YOU NEED IN YOUR SELF-CARE ROUTINE

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If we're honest, life does get busy and sometimes we get lost in the chaos.

Between juggling work, family, friendships, or just the daily chaos that has become part and parcel of our lives, it's easy to put ourselves last. And we do! Sometimes, we don't even think about ourselves until the exhaustion hits at some point and we realize that something needs to be done to take care of you!

Taking time for yourself may seem like just adding to the million things you already have on your plate. But the truth is taking time for yourself for some self-care moments doesn't need to be complicated or time-consuming. It can be found in the littlest of things.

Self-care actually is something you must include in your life because it helps you stay balanced, healthy, and sane. Self-care isn't a luxury, but a necessity.

From simple self-care ideas to everyday self-care products, having a few essentials on hand makes it a little easier to remind yourself to show up for yourself. These self-care essentials remind you to breathe, recharge, and reconnect with yourself — because that's what you deserve!

Here I've included ideas of 27 self-care essentials you might want, to either start a self-care routine or add on to the routine you already have because sometimes having the right tools can make a big difference and makes it so much easier.

Self-Care Essentials You Need In Your Life

These 27 self-care essentials have been divided into four categories — Mind & Soul, Body, Sleep, and Beauty. You can definitely get some inspiration based on your own needs. The secret is listening to your body — it'll tell you!

Self-Care Essentials for Your Mind and Soul

A healthy mind is just as important as a healthy body. From calming your thoughts to boosting your focus, these mind and soul essentials help you clear your mental clutter and find your center. Because taking care of your mind is taking care of you.

1 — Journal

Sometimes, getting your thoughts down on paper can feel like a mental cleanse.

A simple blank journal like the Moleskin Classic Notebook has always been my choice and I highly recommend it.

It gives you space to vent, plan, answer journal prompts, or even jot down self-care ideas. Whether you want to start journaling or just practice a regular brain dump, this can be the perfect tool for you!

2 — Guided Meditation Apps

If you've never got into the meditation 'craze' thinking that it's just bullshit and you don't have time for it or you can't sit still for 30 minutes, I suggest you just try it!

Guided apps like Headspace or Calm are great for beginners and they walk you through the process quite easily and without any fanfare. Some are only 5 minutes long if that's all you have to spare.

It has been proven that just 5-10 minutes of meditation can help lower stress and give you a moment of peace.

3 — Adult Colouring Book

Coloring isn't just for kids! You probably used to love coloring too so why not pick it up again.

Coloring has a surprisingly effective way of calming your mind. The Secret Garden Coloring Book is packed with beautifully intricate designs that allow you to focus on something so simple yet so relaxing.

4 — Puzzle or Brain Game

Keeping your mind active can be a form of self-care.

A puzzle like the Buffalo Games 1000-Piece Puzzle can help you unwind while giving your brain a great workout.

5 — Self-Help Book

Getting into a good self-help book can give you that "aha" moment when you least expect it.

If you're looking for some inspiration for a great self-help book because you're looking into personal development or self-improvement, look no further than Atomic Habits by James Clear.

It is full of practical tips for making small, positive changes in your life without being overwhelming.

6 — Gratitude Journal

Gratitude is one practice that we should all do to be a happier person. We often put too much focus on what we don't have rather than all the beautiful things that we do.

If you were to write down all the things that you have that you are grateful for, you'd feel the change in how you see your own life.

If you're interested in getting into gratitude journaling but don't know where to start, The Five-Minute Journal is a great guided gratitude journal that has helped so many people find positives in their lives that they often overlook. It only takes five minutes and the more you get into practice of gratitude journaling, the more self-awareness you'll gain.

7 — Affirmation Cards

Positive self-talk can change your day! We all need a little something to remind us every day of what we are capable of to boost our mindset and our mood.

These Affirmation Cards are what you need if you can't simply pull an affirmation out of your brain on the go — just pull one card out each morning and carry that affirmation and the energy that comes with it with you.

8 — Throw Blanket

Picture this: you, wrapped in a warm blanket, with a good book or your favorite show, and maybe a cup of tea. Sounds heavenly, right?

The Bedsure Throw Fleece Blanket is super soft and perfect for these cozy moments. A comfy blanket is one of those simple pleasures that can make a big difference. It’s like an instant comfort zone you can take to the couch, your bed, or even your desk when you need a little extra warmth and coziness.

Sometimes self-care is as easy as snuggling up.

9 — Aromatherapy Shower Steamers

No time (or patience) for a long soak in the tub? No worries. These Cleverfy Shower Steamers lets you turn your shower into a mini spa experience.

Just pop one in the corner of your shower, and the steam releases relaxing scents like eucalyptus, lavender, or peppermint. It’s like having an aromatherapy session while you wash away the stress of the day.

It’s self-care on the go — quick, easy, but makes a big impact.

SHOP Self-Care Essentials for Your Mind

Self-Care Essentials for Your Body

Your body works hard for you every single day, so giving it some TLC is non-negotiable. These body self-care essentials for your body help you relieve tension, help you relax, and keep you feeling strong and healthy. Self-care does also include treating your body with the care it deserves.

10 — Reusable Water Bottle

Hydration is the most basic of self-care and yet it is the one thing that a lot of us fail at.

The Hydracy Water Bottle is a great water bottle that has time stamps to remind you to drink your water. Because let's face it — we could all use a reminder. Plus good hydration means you'll have more energy, better skin, and fewer headaches!

11 — Massage Gun

Sore muscles are the worst, right? Whether you've got tight shoulders or calves that feel like rocks, a TheraGun Mini would be able to come to your rescue.

It's a handheld massage gun that targets knots and melts them away. It's like having a personal masseuse at your arm's reach. Use it after a long day, or just because you feel like you need it, and it's so small and handy you'll be able to take it with you everywhere. You won't regret investing in this one.

12 — Resistance Bands

If you're starting an at-home workout routine but are in a dilemma about getting those bulky weights for your workouts, these Fit Simplify Resistance Bands might just be your answer.

These stretchy bands make it easy to tone and strengthen your body without any bulky equipment and you literally don't have to think about storage. They are great for strength exercises and stretching and you can toss them in your bag and bring them with you when you're traveling.

13 — Epsom Salts

There's just something about soaking in a hot bath that makes everything feel so much better.

When your muscles are a little sore or your brain is overloaded, add some of Dr Teal's Epsom Salts to your bath - nothing fancy. It will help ease aches and pains, but honestly, the whole experience is just soul-soothing. It's simple, effective, and worth it.

14 — Dry Brush

Dry brushing might seem like a trend, but as a 'trend', it sure has been around for a long time and there's a good reason for it — it works!

Just a few minutes before your shower the Metene Dry Body Brush helps you exfoliate dry, flaky skin and it gets your circulation going which in turn helps with lymphatic drainage.

It's an energizing way to wake your body up in the mornings and reduces puffiness, all in one go. Your skin will thank you with healthy, glowy skin.

15 — Bodycare

A self-care absolute essential for the body is, of course, body care — basically skincare for the body! This includes scrubs, cleansers, moisturizers, and even targeted treatments to help you minimize your body's skin concerns.

Taking care of your body is a form of self-care without you even knowing it. It makes you feel good, right? — after an 'everything' shower or bath?

16 — Food

Self-care essentials for the body aren't only about what you see on the outside, but it's also what goes into your body.

This means trying to feed your body with food that will serve your body well instead of constantly consuming highly processed food. I say 'constantly' because I personally feel that a whole pizza, a piece of chocolate cake, a bag of chips, a bar of chocolate, and a bowl of ice cream every once in a while is self-care! We all know that we deserve it when the time comes.

But overall, eating good food is the way to go if you want to feel good inside and out. If you're skipping meals or don't think you're getting enough vegetables, you can supplement by adding Organic Super Greens. This nutrient-dense powder is not only filled with your traditional broccoli, kale, and spinach but also hard-to-get micro-algae like spirulina, chlorella, and so much more.

17 — Herbal Tea

Sometimes, all you need is a moment to hit pause. A warm cup of tea can do just that.

The Tea Forte Tea Sampler offers a variety of blends to suit your needs. The best part is — no caffeine jitters, just pure comfort. It's a simple way to slow down, breathe, and take care of yourself.

Who knew a simple act of self-care could come in the form of a little cup of hot tea.

SHOP Self-Care Essentials for Your Body

Self-Care Essentials for Sleep

Good sleep is the foundation of your self-care routine. Without enough quality rest, everything else feels harder. These sleep essentials are here to help you unwind, drift off faster, and wake up feeling refreshed — because you deserve a good night’s sleep.

18 — Weighted Blanket

For those nights that your mind just won't stop when you're trying to sleep, a Weighted Blanket can help.

The pressure of a weighted blanket mimics a comforting hug, which can reduce anxiety and help you relax. Curl up under one and let it work its magic. You might just wake up feeling more refreshed than you've ever been.

19 — Eye Mask

If light tends to mess with your sleep a good eye mask is what you need. The Mavogel Sleep Mask is soft, breathable, and designed to block out every bit of light.

Getting a sleep mask might seem like such a small change in your sleep routine but you'd be surprised at how muc better you sleep with it on.

It's perfect for a nap during the day too!

20 — Pillow Spray

Lavender is known for its relaxing properties and This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray can be just what you need to calm your mind, ready for sleep.

Just spray it on your pillow, take a deep breath, and let the aroma ease you into sleep. It's like creating a mini spa moment before you drift off.

21 — Comfortable Pajamas

Is having super comfortable pajamas a form of self-care? Absolutely!

Whether you prefer shorts, long pants, or a nightgown, the key is in the fabric. One that doesn't make you overheat or feel restricted. Ekouaer Sleepwear is soft, breathable, and most importantly feels good against your skin. Quite frankly, you'll want to wear it all day.

Cozy pajamas help you sleep better and I'd live in my PJs if I could!

22 — White Noise Machine

A white noise machine isn't just for sleeping babies!

If you're sensitive to noise as some are sensitive to light, a white noise machine helps block out background noise so you can fall — and stay asleep.

The Hatch Restore is not your ordinary white noise machine — it doubles as a sunrise alarm clock, gently waking you up with a simulated sunrise. Cool right? It really is a game-changer for creating a calming sleep environment and you wake up to a beautiful sunrise (not exactly but the illusion of...)

SHOP Self-Care Essentials for Sleep

Self-Care Essentials for Beauty

Self-care and beauty go hand in hand, but it's not about vanity — it's about feeling good in your own skin. These beauty essentials make it easier for you to achieve that feeling while giving yourself a little daily pampering.

23 — Face Masks

A good face mask can feel like an instant reset for your skin. After a long day, put on a hydrating collage-boosting mask like the BIODANCE Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask which you can use overnight.

Wake up to skin that is smoother, hydrated, and plumped skin with this best-selling Korean face mask.

24 — Lip balms

Most of us suffer from some form of lip concern, whether it's dry and dehydrated, chapped, or just needs a little extra TLC, having a great lip balm can help soothe your lip problems.

These lip balms are cute and small enough to toss in your bag so you can bring that little piece of self-care everywhere you go.

25 — Face Roller or Gua Sha

Sometimes, stress and tension can show on our faces.

Getting a facial massage would be a great idea, but it will cost you time and money especially if done on the regular. It's great if you have the resources, but if you don't, investing in a Rose Quartz Facial Roller is an equally great alternative.

A face roller can help relax facial muscles and reduce puffiness. Keeping it in the fridge and rolling it over your face in the mornings gives your face a little 'pick-me-up' facial massage before you even start your day. You'll notice the benefits after regular use.

26 — Silk Pillowcase

Switching to a silk pillowcase isn't just about feeling fancy — it's a legit upgrade for your skin and your hair.

The Bedsure Silk Pillowcase is super smooth (as silk!), which means it creates less friction with your hair and your skin as you toss and turn during the night. That means you'll have fewer creases and pillow lines, and less frizz to your hair!

27 — Nourishing Hand Cream

Do we neglect our hands? I think we do, most of the time.

After everything is done at the very end of the night before you lay down to sleep, slather on the L’OCCITANE Shea Butter Hand Cream and let it envelop your hands and nourish them overnight. For me, this is the best time, and the only time I can use hand cream without it ending up being washed as soon as I go into the kitchen, which is every 5 minutes! But you can give your hands the TLC they need anytime you remember to, whilst at your desk working, watching TV, reading a book, whenever.

It's self-care for your hands that do so much for you but sometimes, get so little in return.

SHOP Self-Care Essentials for Beauty

Self-care doesn't need to be complicated.

These self-care essentials are easy ways to sprinkle some comfort and care into your daily routine. Because at the end of the day, you deserve it!