How To Build a Sunday Self Care Routine that Suits You

This blog post offers tips to help you build a self care Sunday routine that works for you!

Self-proclaimed self care girlie speaking here… I live by anything self care. It is one of my core values that I place a lot of importance on. Generally, I’ve been practicing self care way before the term was coined “Self care Sunday” however I agree that Sunday is a perfect day to reset for the week ahead.

In this post, I’ll discuss how you can build a Sunday self care routine that will help slow you down, recharge, and prepare yourself for the week ahead.

What is a Sunday Self Care Routine?

Before diving into the routine, it’s important to understand why having a Self Care Sunday is so important to your wellness. Setting aside time specifically for self care helps you:

Reduce Stress: Giving your mind and body a break from the worries of your week allows you time to recharge and come down from elevated stress levels.

Improve Mental Health: Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and joy can enhance your mood and mental well-being.

Boost Productivity: Taking time to recharge can help process where you need to spend your time leading to increased focus and efficiency during the week.

Enhance Physical Health: Incorporating healthy habits into your routine can improve your overall physical health.

I want to preface that self care isn’t limited to only the tips mentioned in this blog post. Self care for you can mean painting your nails, taking an evening walk, or baking your favorite treat. One rule that holds true is whatever you choose to do during your Sunday self care routine should bring you peace, joy, and comfort.

Now, let’s explore examples of Sunday Self Care routines to help ready you for the week ahead.

1. Have a Slow Morning

Sleep In

One of the simplest yet most effective forms of self care is getting enough sleep. Getting enough sleep by having an early night can make for an early morning. However, if that isn’t the case, taking time to ease into your morning, if you need to sleep in a bit, is okay too. This extra rest can help you feel fully rested and ready to start your day.

Gentle Stretching or Yoga

A great way to slowly wake your body up after sleep is to ease into gentle stretching or a short yoga session. This can help you shake off any stiffness, improve flexibility, and set a calm tone for the day. Consider following a guided yoga video or simply doing some basic stretches.

Nourishing Breakfast

Fuel your body with a nutritious breakfast. Opt for foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. A smoothie, avocado toast, or fiber-rich oatmeal with fruits and nuts are excellent choices that will provide sustained energy.

2. Mindfulness and Mental Health

Meditation

Spend some time meditating to clear your mind and center yourself. Even just 10-15 minutes of meditation can help reduce anxiety, improve focus, and promote a sense of calm. There are many apps (e.g., Calm) and YouTube videos that offer guided meditations. One that I like to practice is a five-minute breathing meditation you can watch here.

Journaling

Journaling is a powerful tool for self-reflection and mental clarity. Use this time to write about your thoughts, feelings, and goals. The best time to journal is whenever you feel like it, but it can be beneficial to journal first thing in the morning. If you don’t know what to write, you can start by jotting down a list of 10 things you’re grateful for.

Digital Detox

Taking a break from screens and social media is a great way to make the space you need to reconnect with yourself. You can use the time to read a book, spend time outdoors, or engage in a creative hobby.

3. Physical Wellness

Exercise

Incorporate some form of physical activity into your Sunday routine. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a gentle stretch, or a dance session, exercise releases endorphins that boost your mood and energy levels. Choose an activity you enjoy to make it feel less like a chore and more like a treat.

Hydration

Staying hydrated is essential for overall health. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. You can also infuse your water with fruits or herbs for added flavor and health benefits.

Nutritious Meals

Plan and prepare healthy meals for the day. Cooking can be a therapeutic activity, and eating nutritious food nourishes your body from the inside out. Consider trying new recipes or making a meal plan for the upcoming week to ensure you have healthy options readily available.

4. Pampering and Relaxation

Skincare Routine

Dedicate some time to a thorough skincare routine. Cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize your skin to keep it healthy and glowing. You can also indulge in a face mask or other treatments that you don’t typically have time for during the week.

Bath or Shower

A long, relaxing bath or shower can do wonders for your stress levels. Use your favorite bath salts, essential oils, or body scrubs to enhance the experience. The warm water and soothing scents will help you unwind and relax.

Massage

If possible, treat yourself to a massage. Whether it’s a professional massage or a self-massage using a foam roller or massage ball, this practice can relieve tension in your muscles and improve circulation.

5. Creative and Joyful Activities

Hobbies

Engage in activities that bring you joy and stimulate your creativity. Whether it’s painting, drawing, puzzles. Spending time on hobbies can be incredibly fulfilling and stress-relieving.

Nature Walks

Spending time in nature has numerous benefits for your mental and physical health. Go for a walk in a nearby park, hike a trail, or simply sit in your backyard and soak in the natural beauty. Nature walks can help clear your mind and boost your mood.

Music and Dance

Listening to your favorite music or dancing around your living room can lift your spirits and provide a fun, active way to relax. Create a playlist of your favorite tunes and let yourself get lost in the music.

6. Planning and Organization

Weekly Planning

Use part of your Sunday to plan for the week ahead. This can include organizing your schedule, setting goals, and preparing any necessary materials for work or personal projects. Having a clear plan can reduce anxiety and help you feel more in control.

Decluttering

A clean and organized space can contribute to a sense of calm and order. Spend some time decluttering and tidying up your living environment. This can be as simple as organizing your desk, cleaning out your closet, or tidying up your kitchen.

Meal Prep

Prepare some meals or snacks for the upcoming week. This not only saves time but also ensures you have healthy options readily available. Consider making a batch of soup, salad jars, or smoothie packs that you can easily grab during busy weekdays.

7. Connection and Social Self-Care

Quality Time with Loved Ones

Spending time with friends and family can be a great way to recharge. Whether it’s a family brunch, a phone call with a friend, or a casual hangout, nurturing your relationships can provide emotional support and joy.

Acts of Kindness

Engaging in acts of kindness can boost your mood and contribute to a sense of purpose. Consider volunteering, helping a neighbor, or simply performing small acts of kindness throughout your day.

Setting Boundaries

Part of social self-care involves setting healthy boundaries. Take some time to reflect on your relationships and ensure that you’re not overcommitting or allowing others to drain your energy. It’s okay to say no and prioritize your own well-being.

Creating Your Personalized Self Care Sunday Routine

Everyone’s idea of self-care is different, so it’s important to tailor your routine to your personal preferences and needs. Here are some tips for creating a personalized Self Care Sunday routine:

1. Identify Your Needs: Reflect on what areas of your life need the most attention. Are you feeling mentally drained, physically exhausted, or emotionally overwhelmed? Tailor your activities to address these needs.
2. Set Realistic Goals: Start with small, achievable goals. You don’t need to pack your day with activities. Even dedicating an hour or two to self-care can make a significant difference.
3. Mix and Match Activities: Combine different types of activities to create a balanced routine. Include a mix of physical, mental, and emotional self-care practices to ensure you’re nurturing all aspects of your well-being.
4. Be Flexible: Your needs and preferences may change over time, so be open to adjusting your routine as needed. Listen to your body and mind, and don’t be afraid to switch things up if something isn’t working for you.
5. Make It Enjoyable: Self-care should be something you look forward to, not another chore. Choose activities that you genuinely enjoy and that bring you happiness and relaxation.

Conclusion

Creating a healthy Self Care Sunday routine is a powerful way to invest in your well-being. By dedicating time to nurture your mind, body, and soul, you can reduce stress, improve your mental and physical health, and set yourself up for a productive and fulfilling week. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it’s a necessary part of maintaining a balanced and healthy life.

I hope these tips help! Let me know how you like to spend your Sunday self care day in the comments below!