Self-care isn’t just about pampering ourselves with bubble baths or a spa day—it’s a holistic practice that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. Tending to these three parts of ourselves is essential for maintaining the energy and balance we need to show up fully in our work, relationships, and daily commitments. But, self-care is deeply personal; what works for one person may not work for another. To help you find what resonates with you, here are a few thoughtful journal prompts to guide your self-care practice.
Take a few moments to reflect on each question below—no judgment, just curiosity. Your answers can shift depending on where you are, and that’s okay. This is about listening to your own needs in the moment.
1. Do I need more or less right now?
- More connection? More movement? Or perhaps more quiet time and solitude?
- Ask yourself what feels “off balance” in your life right now. Are you craving social interaction, or is it time to retreat and recharge? Do you need more stimulation or less noise? This can help you recalibrate your day, making space for what nourishes you most.
2. Do I need rest or movement?
- If my body could speak, would it ask for a nap, a walk, or perhaps a combination of both?
- Self-care isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s about honoring your unique needs in the moment. Your body might be telling you it’s time to rest, or it could be craving movement to release pent-up energy. Trust your instincts to determine what will replenish you.
3. When was the last time an activity brought me joy?
- What were you doing? Who were you with? What made it so fulfilling?
- Take a moment to remember a time when you felt genuinely happy or at peace. Reflecting on these moments can remind you of the activities or connections that bring you joy. Consider how you might weave more of these moments into your daily life, even if they’re small.
4. If I didn’t know what anyone else was doing, how would I spend the next 15 minutes?
- Would you step away from your work, take a moment of silence, or dive into something creative?
- Imagine having a completely blank slate with no obligations or expectations. How would you choose to spend a brief window of time? This prompt helps you tune into what truly nourishes you, without the influence of others’ agendas.
5. What does my body need today?
- Is it asking for a quiet moment to stretch, hydrate, or simply breathe deeply?
- Tune into the signals your body is giving you—perhaps it’s asking for rest, more movement, or a nourishing meal. Your body holds wisdom, and listening to its cues is one of the most powerful ways to care for yourself.
Self-care is a continual practice, not a one-time fix. By regularly checking in with yourself using prompts like these, you can learn to respond to your body’s needs, protect your energy, and nurture your well-being in a way that feels authentic to you. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s an essential part of showing up as the best version of yourself for everything you do.
About Maxine Iida:
Maxine is a Resident in Counseling actively pursuing her Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure. She is passionate about working with folks struggling with their relationships with food and their bodies. She has experience offering individual counseling to teens and adults. She specializes in depression, anxiety, disordered eating, and family or relationship issues. Her experience also includes leading group therapy for teens and starting a women’s psychoeducational group to focus on self-esteem, body image, and health. To learn more about Maxine, visit HERE!