Looking for some 5 minute self care ideas to do when you have no time?
We’ve all been there. You have a million things to do, and you don’t even know where to start. So you put it off, and before you know it the day is over and you’ve done nothing but stress out.
Every day the to-do-list seems to grow longer and longer, and it feels like we never have a moment to ourselves.
But taking care of yourself is important for your physical and mental health, and you shouldn’t feel guilty for wanting to give yourself a few minutes each day for self care. Whether you’re short on time or just feeling a little overwhelmed, these self care tips will help you relax and rejuvenate.
You might also like:
- How to have a Self Care Day Without Spending a Fortune
- 101 Simple Joys of Life We Must Not Forget
- 21 Day Self Care Challenge: Boost Your Wellbeing In 3 Weeks
- 50 Life Mottos To Live By For A Happier Life
- The Importance of Time: 8 Reasons Why Time is Important In Our Lives
PIN IT FOR LATER
25 simple 5 minute self care ideas:
1) Take deep breaths
Breathing deeply helps to reduce stress by bringing more oxygen into your system. Sit comfortably with your back against the wall and breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds before breathing out through pursed lips for 8 seconds. Repeat this process 3 times, focusing on how each breath feels in your body.
2) Make a gratitude list
List at least 10 things that you are grateful for. This can be anything from your health to your friends and family. Writing down what you’re grateful for can help shift your focus away from the things that are stressing you out and remind you of all the good in your life
3) Blast your favourite song
Music has a powerful ability to affect our moods, so put on your favourite song and sing along at the top of your lungs! Not only will you feel more cheerful, but you’ll also get a good workout
4) Drink some water
Often when we feel overwhelmed or stressed, we forget to drink enough water. While you may not have drank the recommended 8 glasses of water per day, take a few minutes to get some water into you, which will help flush out toxins and keep your body hydrated.
5) Stretch
Stretching is a great way to reduce stress and tension in the body. Spend 5 minutes stretching out your muscles, focusing on areas that feel tight or tense
6) Take a quick shower
The heat and steam from a hot shower can help to relax your muscles and soothe away stress.
7) Meditate
Meditation is a great way to focus your mind and calm your thoughts. Sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes, and breathe deeply for 5 minutes.
8) Get up and walk around
If you feel like you can’t focus or sit still, get up and walk around for a few minutes. A change of scenery can help to clear your mind
9) Make a list
Sometimes the best way to calm your mind and focus is to put everything that’s on your mind onto paper. Write down your to-dos for the day, what you need to buy at the grocery store, or even just a brainstorm of all the thoughts that are swirling around in your head.
10) Call a friend
Sometimes all we need is a listening ear and some friendly support. Calling a friend can help take the edge off of a stressful day and make you feel more connected.
11) Colour
Colouring can be a great way to relax and de-stress. Find a Colouring book that appeals to you, or print out some free colouring pages from the internet. Colouring isn’t just for kids. It’s said to help improve focus and concentration, and can also be a great way to unwind after a long day.
12) Close your eyes
A short nap can help to refresh your mind and body, and can be especially helpful if you’re feeling a little run down. Close your eyes for just five minutes and reap the benefits
13) Practice self compassion
It’s easy to be hard on ourselves. Practice self compassion by treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would give to a friend
14) Journal
Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a great way to process them and work through them. Journaling can also help to track your progress and see how you’re improving over time.
15) Dance around your house
Dancing is a great way to get your heart rate up and release any tension or stress that you may be feeling. Turn on a song you love and dance like no one is watching.
16) Make a healthy snack
When we’re overwhelmed, it’s common to reach for unhealthy snacks. But instead of raiding the treat jar, make yourself a healthy snack instead. Something like an apple or a handful of almonds can help to give you a boost of energy.
17) Take a break
When we’re constantly working, it’s easy to forget to take breaks. But taking a few minutes to yourself can help to refresh your mind and make you more productive in the long run.
18) Sit outside
Sometimes all we need is some fresh air to help us relax and de-stress. Sit outside in your backyard and spend a few minutes sitting and enjoying the scenery.
19) Disconnect
We all know the dangers of getting sucked into social media, but sometimes it’s hard to resist. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed out, take a break from all your social media accounts for a few minutes. Disconnecting for even just a little while can help you clear your head and relax.
20) Wash your face
Washing your face can be a quick and easy way to refresh your mind and body. Splash some cold water on your face, or use a gentle cleanser to wash away the day’s stresses.
21) Declutter
A cluttered environment can be stressful and overwhelming. Spend 5 minutes decluttering your desk, your closet, or any other space that’s been bothering you.
22) Laugh
Laughter is the best medicine. Watch a funny video, read a funny book, or just spend a few minutes with people who make you laugh.
23) Read a few pages of a book
Reading can be a great way to clear your mind. Choose a book that you enjoy and take five minutes to read a few pages.
24) Soak your feet
Add some epsom salts or essential oils to a foot bath and spend a few minutes giving your feet some TLC. If you’re on your feet for most of the day, this is a great way to rejuvenate your feet.
25) Paint your nails
Painting your nails can be a quick and easy way to feel more put together. Choose a colour that makes you happy and take a few minutes to paint your nails.
PIN FOR LATER
I hope these 5 minute self care activities I’ve shared will help you when you feel like you don’t have any time for yourself. Even if it’s just five minutes, taking a break to do something that makes you happy can make all the difference.
What are some of your favourite self care ideas? Share them in the comments below!
