1. Start a Gentle Morning Routine

You don't need a two-hour sunrise yoga session (unless you want one!). A simple routine — like stretching for five minutes, sipping your coffee without screens, or opening a window for fresh air — can anchor your day with calmness. Think about it: The days are demanding and fast paced, so doesn't it make sense to carve out 10-15 minutes in the morning to check in with yourself before tending to everyone else? Wake up all the way, let your brain form well-rounded thoughts before diving head-first into the world?

I think, yes. Absolutely.

So, get your favorite coffee and coffee toppings, that special mug (even if it's special because it is familiar). Get the hot tea if you aren't a fan of coffee. Get your guilty pleasure of an energy drink if that's your jam and give yourself a few minutes before everyone else. Some find making a list of goals for the day is helpful and others need a self-pep talk. The goal here, is to be gentle and attentive to your needs from that start of the day and set the game plan. Set the tone. Pick your crayon for the day and get to work.

A cozy morning journal like this one can help you set a peaceful tone for the day.)

2. Get Outside for 10 Minutes a Day

Even short bursts of fresh air can boost your mood and energy. Step outside with your morning drink, take a quick lunchtime walk, or just sit on your porch in the sun. Don't sleep on the power of Vitamin Sunshine (vitamin D). Listen to the birds, smell the air, observe your surroundings. I think of the birds as little unbothered companions. just chirping away and seizing the day's opportunities.

Bonus: you get to check the weather while you're at it. So, no wardrobe regrets.

These comfy outdoor lounge chairs make it easy to soak up the sunshine!)

3. Unplug for One Hour Each Day

Our minds need rest from the constant buzz of screens. Choose one hour to be tech-free: no scrolling, no emails, no notifications. Read, cook, doodle, sit — anything that gives your brain room to breathe. Not scrolling helps break any negative pattern-loops so many of us fall into like: comparing where others are at in life, reading what others think and are doing. This doesn't help with self-gratitude and being productive and creating our own dreams.

4. Create a "Joy List" and Pick One Thing Daily

Write down 10–20 little things that make you smile — baking cookies, dancing to your favorite song, calling a friend. Every day, pick one item and actually do it. Tiny sparks of joy can build serious momentum. Personally, I am a huge proponent of being off-the-wall GOOFY (even if it's forced), blaring my happy song choices, and dancing like an utter maniac. It also helps to sing off key while you're at it. Just shake off the funky funk. Get the blood pumping and fill the blood with oxygen. Sometimes, we all get a little TOO serious, you know?

Want to have a dance party? This disco ball light is sure to help set the ambiance.
I created a downloadable/printable FREE "Joy List," of strategies that might help shake the "funky funk" away. Click here for a fun list of strategies.

5. Try Mindful Breathing (Even 3 Minutes Helps)

You don’t have to meditate for an hour to feel better. Just pausing to take slow, deep breaths — even for 3 minutes — can help reset your nervous system and reduce anxiety. Bonus: you can do this anywhere, anytime.

6. Say No to One Extra Thing This Week

Protect your peace by practicing the art of saying no. You don’t have to attend every event, take every call, or pick up every extra task. Boundaries are a powerful form of self-care. Also, saying "NO," is powerful. "No," is a complete sentence as well and doesn't require an explanation. Try it. If you aren't used to saying "no," and you are nervous about it (maybe a little uncomfortable following through with saying "no"), then try responding with, "I'm not sure. I will get back to you about it." Use that little bit of time to get yourself together and go in for the goal (saying "no").

Don't feel guilty or bad for answering "no" to someone/something. You are your own person, and you matter as much as the person requesting whatever it may be.

7. Drink More Water (It's Basic but Powerful)

Dehydration can sneak up on your mood and energy levels. Keeping a water bottle nearby and sipping regularly is such an easy win for your body and your mind. It is refreshing, energizing, and makes you pause. Athletes take water breaks. Life might as well be an Olympic sport, so take a water break!!

I love this motivational water bottle — it reminds you to sip throughout the day.)

8. Plan a Mini Treat for Yourself Each Week

Give yourself something small to look forward to — like a cozy movie night, a fresh bouquet, or a special snack. Anticipating good things can brighten your mindset all week long. Maybe the treat is not cooking dinner one night that week. Take out for the win! Or, take yourself on a date.

Treat yourself to these cozy throw blankets for the ultimate chill night!)

9. Connect with Someone You Trust

You don't have to carry everything alone. Reach out to someone who feels safe and supportive — even just texting a friend to say "thinking of you" can create connection and comfort for both of you.

10. Write One Kind Thing About Yourself Each Night

Before bed, jot down one nice thing about yourself. Maybe it’s how you handled a tough situation, or simply that you showed up today. Doesn't have to be glamorous, life altering, heroic - It just has to be giving credit where credit is due ... especially credit for the little things.

Keep a pretty bedside journal just for nighttime reflections.) or Get some help with kind words for yourself with Affirmation Cards.

Free Printable: 10 Easy Self-Care Strategies Checklist!

Want an easy reminder you can keep at your desk, fridge, or planner?
Download this FREE Self-Care Checklist for May — a simple guide to gently support your mental health all month long.

Click here to download the printable checklist!

Final Thoughts

Self-care isn’t about being perfect — it's about listening to what you need and honoring it in small, steady ways.
This May, give yourself permission to take up space, rest, and care for your beautiful mind.

Which self-care strategy will you start with this month? I'd love to hear in the comments! I'm totally hopeful that at least one person will try the Goofy-maniac-dance-party-and-slightly-off key-karaoke - session.

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