CREATE A SELF-CARE RITUAL THAT ACTUALLY STICKS
by Nashville Boudoir Photographer Caley King Newberry
Self-care is a term we’ve heard so much in the past several years that I feel like it’s almost lost its meaning. Often portrayed as bubble baths and face masks, it’s become a surface-level “treat yo self” mantra. True self care goes much deeper than a pedicure — it’s about creating sustainable habits that nurture your well-being in every area of your life. If you’ve ever struggled to make self-care a consistent part of your routine, you’re not alone. Life gets busy, and it’s easy to push your own needs aside. The good news? Building a self-care ritual that lasts is simpler than you think.
HERE ARE MY BEST TIPS ON HOW TO CREATE A SELF-CARE PRACTICE YOU’LL ACTUALLY STICK TO
Define What Self-Care Means To You
Part of the reason I feel that we’ve lost the meaning of self-care is because it’s not a one-size-fits-all concept. For some, it’s meditating in the morning. For others, it’s taking time to read, journal or go for a walk. Start by asking yourself:
What makes me feel calm, energized, or grounded?
What do I need more of in my life?
Once you’ve identified what self care looks like for you, it’s easier to prioritize activities that truly nourish you.Start Small and Be Realistic
The biggest mistake people make, especially this time of year, is trying to overhaul their entire routing overnight. Instead, start small.
If you want to journal, commit to writing just one sentence a day.
If movement if your goal, try a 10-minute stretch instead of an hour-long workout that will leave you sore and discouraged.
Small, consistent steps are more sustainable than big, unrealistic changes.Choose a Time That Works For You
Consistency is key to forming any habit. Decide when self care fits best into your day.
Morning Ritual: Start your day with mindfulness, gratitude, or a calming activity to set the tone.
Midday Reset: Take a break to recharge with a walk, deep breathing, or quiet time.
Evening Wind-Down: End your day with a relaxing activity like journaling, skincare, or reading.
Pick a time that feels natural and works with your schedule.Make It Enjoyable
If self-care feels like a chore, you’re less likely to stick with it. Choose activities you genuinely enjoy and look forward to rather than forcing a new habit on yourself. If movement is your self-care goal and you hate running, try a yoga flow or pilates.
If you’re not a fan of journaling, experiment with art, music, or another creative outlet. You don’t have to be good at something for it to calm your mind and contribute to your overall wellbeing.
When you love what you’re doing, it’s easier to make it part of your routine.Remove Barriers
Make your routine as easy as possibly be removing obstacles that might stop you from following through.
Keep your journal on your nightstand so it’s ready when you wake up.
Lay out workout clothes the night before and start your day with putting them on.
Prepare a playlist or podcast ahead of time for your walk.
The fewer decisions you have to make in the moment, the more likely you are to stick with the ritual.Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
It’s okay if you miss a day or a week. Self care isn’t about being perfect — it’s about showing up for yourself as best you can so you can show up for those around you well. When you fall off track, don’t let shame stop you from starting again. Progress is what matters.
Reflect and Adjust
Your needs may change over time, so it’s important to evaluate your self-care ritual regularly.
Ask yourself:
Is this still serving me?
What feels good and what doesn’t?
How can I adapt this to fit my current lifestyle?
Adjust your practices as often as you need to ensure they continue to feel nourishing and effective.Celebrate Your Wins
Every small step you take is worth celebrating. Whether it’s completing a week of journaling or carving out 15 minutes for yourself each day, acknowledge your effort. Celebrating your wins reinforces positive behavior and motivates you to keep going.
WHAT SELF-CARE LOOKS LIKE FOR ME
I’ve kept a journal/notebook/planner every year for the past decade+. I take it most places with me and it holds everything from my daily to-do list to photos of fun evenings out to my goals and dreams. It also holds notes from my therapy sessions or quotes that I find meaningful. As you can tell, it’s a catch all. It’s also a place I doodle and draw as a meditative, creative practice. I’m not good at drawing at all, but it’s something that takes time, scratches a creative itch, and gives me the space to reflect or listen to a podcast or audiobook while I’m doing it. Truly, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself. It reminds me I don’t have to be good at something to enjoy it and, at the end of the year, I have a keepsake of everything that was meaningful to me at some point that year.
Over the past year, I’ve also focused more on my physical health from a longevity standpoint. With perimenopause knocking on my door, I’ve focused on strength training to maintain as much strength as I can as my body slows on holding its muscle tone.
I found that much of my thirties was about getting to know myself better, and I finally learned that, while I consider myself typically an extrovert, I am a person who also desperately needs alone time. I’ve began looking for ways to carve out undisturbed time for myself, and it makes so much of a difference. Life circumstances don’t always allow that for everyone, and if you’re in a season where that’s impossible, it will come back around for you.
And the last thing I’ve tried to focus on lately is probably the easiest sounding and hardest for me to execute. WATER. I’m a beverage gal. I love a coffee or a fun cocktail, and water is one of the hardest for me to reach for. I’ve finally started carrying a water bottle with me most places and whaddayaknow hydration is pretty great.
HERE’S A SIMPLE SELF-CARE RITUAL YOU CAN START TODAY
If you’re not sure where to begin and come up blank when you reflect on your needs, try this simple 10-minute ritual:
Light a candle or play soft music to create a calming atmosphere.
Spend three minutes journaling about one thing you’re grateful for. Set a timer.
Spend five minutes stretching or meditating. There are all kinds of free videos on YouTube.
End with two minutes of deep breathing.
This quick routine can help you feel grounded, refreshed, and ready to take on the day.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Building a self-care ritual that sticks is about consistency, enjoyment, and meeting yourself where you are. It’s a practice of honoring your needs and prioritizing your well being, even when life feels overwhelming. Remember: You deserve this time, and you’re not selfish for showing up for yourself. I think you’ll find, in time, the version of you that cares for yourself well will create the best version of you to show up for the people you love.
Start small, stay patient, and watch as your self-care ritual becomes a natural and essential part of your life.