7 Realistic Self-Care Habits That Actually Work
Self-care doesn’t have to be a spa day or a silent retreat. Sometimes, it’s as simple as putting your phone down, opening the window, and making a bowl of cheesy spaghetti.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by self-care routines that feel like another thing on your to-do list, this is for you. These seven habits are realistic and grounding.
1. Check In With Yourself (Even With Your Phone In Hand)
Your phone isn’t the enemy.
If you find yourself scrolling first thing in the morning, don’t guilt yourself.
Check in.
When you’re ready, return to yourself.
Sit quietly for a few moments
Journal whatever’s on your heart
Stretch or move slowly
Open the window and let the day in
Sometimes, the softest check-in is asking: What do I need today?
2. Get Sunlight First Thing
Sunlight bathing is a gentle way to reset your entire body. Three minutes outside can work wonders for your energy and mood.
You don’t need to go far:
Sit on your doorstep
Pause in a park on your way to work
Step outside with your tea and be
Let the sun hug you for a second.
3. Text Someone You Love
Real connection is underrated self-care.
You don’t need to make plans or write a novel.
Send a thoughtful message to someone who matters.
Thinking of you today
That memory popped into my head again and still makes me smile
Hope you’re doing okay this week
One message is enough to make both of you feel more grounded.
4. Solo Café Reset
If you work from home, this is your reason to get dressed and step into the world again.
Go to your favourite café.
Leave your laptop behind.
Order your drink.
No multitasking. No pressure. Only stillness and soft noise.
If you work in an office, take your lunch break out of the building, even if for a few minutes.
5. Take the Long Way Home
Your commute can be your reset button.
Instead of rushing home, take the long way:
Walk through a quieter street
Stop at the bakery on the corner
Let your steps become a rhythm
It’s a moving meditation.
If you work from home, go for a short walk after you close your laptop. You don’t need a destination.
6. Cook a Meal for Yourself
Feed yourself like you would someone you love.
And no, it doesn’t have to take hours.
Here’s one of my favourites, comforting, simple, and done in under 15 minutes:
One-Pan Cheesy Garlic Chilli Spaghetti
Simple. Cozy.
Ingredients
Dried spaghetti
Salt
Frozen garlic (or fresh)
Garlic powder
Crushed chilli
Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favourite)
Olive oil or butter (optional)
Method
Add spaghetti to a shallow pan and cover with just enough water. Salt the water.
Boil until al dente. Don’t drain, keep a little starchy water.
Lower heat and stir in garlic, garlic powder, chilli, and a drizzle of olive oil or butter.
Add cheese and stir until melty and glossy.
Serve warm.
Perfect for the days you’re tired but still want something nourishing.
7. Do Something Nostalgic
Nostalgia brings joy from a past version of you and reminds you she’s still here.
Rewatch a childhood film
Play an old song you danced to at 17
Bake cupcakes that taste like a summer with your cousins
Try a paint-by-numbers set or a jigsaw puzzle
These soft moments reconnect you to yourself, without needing to explain why.
Tiny Glims is a free weekly reset checklist included with The Eliane Luella Monthly. If you want a little extra support this month, it’s the easiest place to start.
Eliane Luella
