The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (2024)

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We hear about self-care so much these days, it is hard to even pinpoint why we love using this term so much. I love self-care, and t is not about reading a good book and enjoying a spa day. There is so much more to it. So what is it exactly, and why is it so important? Let’s talk about the six types of self-care, and how you can incorporate them into your life starting today.

The Six Types Of Self- Care And How To Focus On Them

1. Emotional Self-Care

These are the activities that help you connect, process, and reflect on your emotions. How you deal with your feelings says a lot about how much you love yourself. Emotional self-care is about reacting to your emotions in a healthy way.

Do you have healthy ways to process your emotions? Are the activities you incorporate into your life helping you feel better?

Seeing a therapist, journal writing, music, dance, and painting are all great types of emotional self-care.

2. Practical Self-Care

This type of self-care relates to all areas of your life. Tasks you complete that fulfil various aspects of your life. It involves getting active, eating well and taking care of your physical health. It also covers taking care of your home, enrolling in a course to advance in your field, or financial self-care by budgeting and saving money when you can.

3. Physical Self-Care

Of all the types of self-care, this one is the one most talked about. Physical self-care means doing things to improve the well-being of your physical health. Getting enough water, food, and sleep.

It means taking a break when you need it and maintaining a healthy diet.

Great ways of practising physical self-care are getting a massage, pedicure, and a hair cut.

Wear clothes that make you feel good about yourself and about your body.

The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (1)

4. Psychological or Mental Self-Care

This one is by far my favourite. These are types of self-care activities that help you to keep a clear head.

Attitude is a small thing that makes a big difference right? Activities in this group help you work towards self-improvement and personal growth. The things you fill your mind with greatly influence your psychological well-being.

That’s why positive self-talk is so important.

Practice psychological self-care by journaling, reading a self-help book, getting creative, reading a book, solving a puzzle, aromatherapy, and focusing on the things you are grateful for.

5. Social Self-Care

It is so important to nurture relationships with the people you choose to have in your life.

Who you surround yourself with has a huge impact on how you feel about yourself. Remove anyone in your life that is toxic and only brings you problems.

Whether you are an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert, it doesn’t matter. Only you know what your boundaries are, and should set them.

Good ways to practice social self-care is by having dinner with friends, going out on a date, making time for your family, and learning to say no.

6. Spiritual Self Care

Taking care of your mind and body is great, but what about your soul? How are you connected with your true authentic self?

Spiritual self-care and nurturing your spirit, doesn’t have to involve religion. It’s about doing things that feed your soul.

Activities that nurtures your spirit. The most talked-about and practised are meditation, yoga, and going to a place of worship. I have been meditating with Insight Timer for the past year and it has done me a lot of good.

Develop Your Self-Care Plan

Self-care isn’t the same for everyone. Your self-care plan will need to be customized to your individual needs.

A self-care plan for a busy working mom will be different than the plan of a student headed off to college.

It is important, to begin with, self-reflection and identifying your personal self-care needs.

The areas in your life that are currently being neglected is the best place to start.

Always make self-care a priority.

Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing posts on how to practice self-care in each of these areas.

Here are ten simple self-care practices you can start with.

  1. Create a purposeful habit. Choose something you would like to do daily and be intentional about it.
  2. Be selfish. Do one thing every day just because it makes you happy.

  3. Declutter. Get rid of things that no longer serve you.

Clutter is not just physical stuff. It’s old ideas, toxic relationships and bad habits. Clutter is anything that does not support your better self.Click To Tweet

  1. Make sure you are your best friend. Look in the mirror and say kind words to your best friend.
  2. Spoil yourself. Splurge a little and show yourself that you are valued by gifting something to yourself.

  3. Go on a date. Not with someone else but alone. Go to the movies, visit an exhibition. Do something alone for an hour.

  4. Ask for help. Reach out to someone to help you when you need it.

  5. Be intentional. It is important to be intentional about the things you usually do on autopilot. Put thought into how and why you do things.

  6. Unplug. Free yourself from constant email notifications and social media for at least an hour a day.

  7. Choose a weekly motto. Live by it.

How Do You Practice The Above Types Of Self-Care?

Do you practice all or some? What have you found to be essential for you?

Share them with me in the comments section below.

The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (2)

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (3)

Sheri

Hi. I'm Sheri. I provide tools to help women live an intentional and purpose-driven life by practicing self-help, self-love, and productivity. I share work-life balance tips, transformations techniques, and information and exercises for practicing mindfulness. Daily habits that will help transform you to a better YOU.

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16 comments

The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (4)

Rose A (@mail4rosey)August 29, 2019 - 03:26

Unplugging is what makes me feel better. Too much stress comes from always having something to do (which you do if you are online).

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (5)

KiwiAugust 28, 2019 - 21:17

I always tell people self care is deeper than a face mask and a bubble bath to yourself. I love the break down of all of these self care I am definitely doing more on the spiritual side!

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (6)

Sarah MAugust 28, 2019 - 20:22

It’s such a motivational post. I have never thought about self care in this detail. Self care is not just physical care; it includes all 6 types.

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (7)

alexandra cookAugust 28, 2019 - 13:32

Self-care is so important for your overall health. I will definitely focus on my physical self-care to help me relax and relieve my stress.

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (8)

Hannah MarieAugust 28, 2019 - 10:27

These are all spot on! Taking care of yourself is such a necessity. I think having a peaceful mind and a healthy body is a good indication.

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (9)

Cindy IngallsAugust 27, 2019 - 19:26

I never thought of self care as being divided in to different categories, but I really like the idea. It can help make sure you are taking care of yourself in multiple ways.

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (10)

successunscrambledAugust 27, 2019 - 17:26

Amazing! I never realised that self-care had so many dimensions. I certainly look after a number of the dimensions already so I only have a bit of catching up to do.

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (11)

JoannaAugust 27, 2019 - 11:23

I had no idea that you can categorise self care in so many ways. When I think of self care I usually think of the physical one only.

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (12)

PriyaAugust 27, 2019 - 10:59

I’ve been neglecting my physical and mental health lately. I need to get more sleep, drink more water, and choose better friends for better health I beleive. Thanks for the motivation.

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (13)

momi berlinAugust 27, 2019 - 07:42

I like the tip here that we do one thing every day just because it makes us happy. This I believe isnt selfishness but more on nurturing self.

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (14)

thecoffeemom0617August 27, 2019 - 03:19

I really need to work on my own self care more. Especially emotional self care!

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (15)

DeedeeAugust 27, 2019 - 01:43

All of these are equally important and I do most. However, as someone that works from home, I have to push myself to be social.

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (16)

Tara Pittman (@momknowsbest15)August 26, 2019 - 21:03

I would have never thought of social self care. Self care is important to me.

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (17)

Chelsea MessinaAugust 26, 2019 - 18:10

These are great tips… I wish more people understood the importance of mental heath care. It doesn’t matter if you have a healthy brain or a sick brain, everyone needs to practice self care and work on their mental health care. I was recently diagnosed with several chronic mental illnesses, and its a journey.

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (18)

Krysten (@WeirdGirlBlog)August 26, 2019 - 15:59

I am REALLY struggling with some things right now and I guess I need to deal with my self-care better. Thank you for this.

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (19)

Amber MyersAugust 26, 2019 - 14:35

Self care is so important! I always make sure to read daily–I love to do it, so I make sure I have time.

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The 6 Types of Self-Care And How to Practice Them (2024)

FAQs

What are the main types of self-care? ›

The seven types of self-care are:
  • Emotional self-care.
  • Physical self-care.
  • Mental self-care.
  • Social self-care.
  • Spiritual self-care.
  • Practical self-care.
  • Professional self-care.

What are the six areas of life that can influence self-care needs? ›

We propose and delineate six life domains—physical, professional, relational, emotional, psychological, and spiritual—that may require attention in each person's self-care practice, and briefly summarize some empirical findings that support self-care practices within each.

What are the 5 types of self-care? ›

There are five different types of self-care: physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual and professional care.
  • Physical self-care. ...
  • Emotional self-care. ...
  • Psychological self-care. ...
  • Spiritual self-care. ...
  • Professional self-care.
7 Nov 2017

How do you practice self-care interview question? ›

Think of yourself as your own best friend. …
...
FAQ
  1. How do I feel at this moment?
  2. What do I crave in life?
  3. What makes me happiest?
  4. What are the positives in my life?
  5. What am I thankful for?
  6. What brought me joy today? This week? This month?
  7. What am I putting off?
  8. What is making me feel down?
10 Aug 2022

Why is self-care practice important? ›

Engaging in a self-care routine has been clinically proven to reduce or eliminate anxiety and depression, reduce stress, improve concentration, minimize frustration and anger, increase happiness, improve energy, and more.

How often should you practice self-care? ›

To get into a routine of regularly practicing self-care, experts recommend starting small rather than tackling the most challenging thing first. Choose one practice each week to weave into your daily routine. Note any positive changes, and add in more practices when you feel ready.

What are the 8 types of self-care? ›

8 Types of Self-Care
  • PHYSICAL SELF-CARE. Self-care that has to do with feeling physically well and maintaining physical health. ...
  • EMOTIONAL SELF-CARE. ...
  • SOCIAL SELF-CARE. ...
  • SPIRITUAL SELF-CARE. ...
  • PERSONAL SELF-CARE. ...
  • HOME ENVIRONMENT SELF-CARE. ...
  • FINANCIAL SELF-CARE. ...
  • WORK, SCHOOL, CAREGIVING, OR OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES.
24 May 2021

What are the 4 main types of self-care skills? ›

Self-care includes all the things you do to take care of your well-being in four key dimensions – your emotional, physical, psychological, and spiritual health.

What is a self-care plan examples? ›

Activities that help you to stay fit and healthy, and with enough energy to get through your work and personal commitments.
  • Develop a regular sleep routine.
  • Aim for a healthy diet.
  • Take lunch breaks.
  • Go for a walk at lunchtime.
  • Take your dog for a walk after work.
  • Use your sick leave.

How many types of self-care are there? ›

There are 8 main areas of self-care: physical, psychological, emotional, social, professional, environmental, spiritual, and financial. Movement of the body, health, nutrition, sleep and resting needs.

How can self-care therapy help improve the way of life of a person? ›

How Therapy Can Help with Self-Care. Therapy can often uncover the root of a failure to care for one's self. If depression is the cause, therapy can typically help relieve symptoms of depression and improve one's mood, which will generally lead to one becoming able to meet self-care needs once again.

What are the 6 dimensions of health? ›

The Six Dimensions of Wellness
  • Physical Wellness.
  • Emotional Wellness.
  • Spiritual Wellness.
  • Social Wellness.
  • Intellectual Wellness.
  • Occupational Wellness.

What is emotional self-care and why is it important? ›

Emotional self-care.

What emotional self-care means is to become aware of, and identify, what you are feeling, and then allow yourself to lean into the feelings in a way that honors yourself and your emotions. We can try to ignore, deny, and suppress our emotions, but eventually they come out, one way or another.

What is personal self-care? ›

Self-care is any activity that we do deliberately in order to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical health. Although it's a simple concept in theory, it's something we very often overlook. Set and maintain healthy boundaries Take a break from watching, reading or listening to news stories…

What are some self-care questions? ›

What is the most helpful thing you are doing for yourself right now? What is one habit you wish could replace, and what would it be? Which area of your life do you feel the most stress? What is the behavior are you practicing that is causing you the most harm?

What are some good self-care questions? ›

Here are 25 self care questions to ask yourself every day:
  • How do I feel at this moment?
  • What do I crave in life?
  • What makes me happiest?
  • What are the positives in my life?
  • What am I thankful for?
  • What brought me joy today? This week? This month?
  • What am I putting off?
  • What is making me feel down?

What are three questions to consider in developing a self-care practice? ›

Self Care Discussion Questions
  • What are some thoughts you have had about yourself recently?
  • Are they mostly positive or negative?
  • What are your expectations for yourself? What would you do differently in your daily life if you knew no one would judge you for it? ...
  • Are they realistic? Why or why not?

Why is it so hard to practice self-care? ›

Do you struggle with self-care? Self-care is especially hard for those who grew up in dysfunctional families and/or developed codependent traits. Codependents struggle with self-care because they tend to focus on other people's feelings, needs, and problems, and take care of others, often at their own expense.

How can I practice self-care with anxiety? ›

How can I help myself?
  • Talk to someone you trust add. Talking to someone you trust about what's making you anxious could be a relief. ...
  • Try to manage your worries add. ...
  • Look after your physical health add. ...
  • Try breathing exercises add. ...
  • Keep a diary add. ...
  • Complementary and alternative therapies add.

Why self-care is important for students? ›

In a study conducted by O'Neill, Slater and Batt found that students who practiced self-care had lower academic stress. Therefore, their academic performance was characterised as being influenced by lower stress levels. This in turn gave the students a better experience during their course.

How much self-care is enough? ›

Self-Care with Any Amount of Time

10 Minutes: There are plenty of self-care activities you can engage in even if you only have 10 minutes or less to yourself in a day. One of the best ways to take care of yourself is to slow down, which is easier said than done.

What is the best form of self-care? ›

Here are 12 ways to get started with your self-care.
  1. Make sleep part of your self-care routine. ...
  2. Take care of yourself by taking care of your gut. ...
  3. Exercise daily as part of your self-care routine. ...
  4. Eat right for self-care. ...
  5. Say no to others, and say yes to your self-care. ...
  6. Take a self-care trip.
28 Dec 2018

What self-care activities? ›

At its most basic definition, self-care is any intentional action taken to meet an individual's physical, mental, spiritual, or emotional needs. In short, it's all the little ways we take care of ourselves to avoid a breakdown in those respective areas of health.

What are the five key steps in teaching a self-care skill? ›

  • 5 Tips On Teaching Self-Skills To Children With Special Needs. Suzie Dalien. ...
  • Give them the courage to help themselves. As a parent, it can be difficult to see your child struggling to complete a task. ...
  • Break it into bite-sized bits. ...
  • Identify self-skill problem areas. ...
  • Make learning fun. ...
  • Simplify the every day.

How can I improve my self help skills? ›

Ways to Encourage Self-Help Skills in Children
  1. Self-feeding. The best way to build independent feeding skills is to learn the normal developmental stages of self-feeding. ...
  2. Independent dressing and grooming. ...
  3. Hygiene and toileting . ...
  4. Helping with daily chores like table setting and picking up toys.
15 Aug 2019

What's another word for self-care? ›

Synonyms
  • carefulness.
  • caution.
  • gingerliness.
  • heed.
  • heedfulness.
  • mindfulness.
  • regard.

What are the 6 dimensions of self? ›

The National Wellness Institute promotes Six Dimensions of Wellness: emotional, occupational, physical, social, intellectual, and spiritual. Addressing all six dimensions of wellness in our lives builds a holistic sense of wellness and fulfillment. Developed by Dr.

What are the six areas of wellness lifestyle? ›

The 6 Dimensions of Wellness
  • Physical.
  • Social.
  • Emotional.
  • Intellectual.
  • Occupational or Financial.
  • Spiritual.
14 Feb 2022

What are the six dimensions of health quizlet? ›

The six dimensions of health are physical, social, intellectual, emotional, spiritual and environmental.

What are the health dimensions? ›

There are five main aspects of personal health: physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual. In order to be considered "well," it is imperative for none of these areas to be neglected.

What are the dimensions of health and their meaning? ›

We define health as a state of complete physical, social and mental wellbeing, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. From this definition you can see that health has three dimensions – physical, mental and social – which are interrelated and influence each other greatly.

What are the six dimensions of wellness quizlet? ›

What are the six dimensions of Wellness? dimensions (physical, social, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and environmental).

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