Simple Self-Care Guide for Beginners

First things first. 

What this blog is not about: depression that makes it hard to do anything. If you suspect that your struggle with daily care stems from depression or another mental health challenge, please reach out to a professional. You deserve support. You deserve to feel better. And sometimes, that first step has nothing to do with a shower or a toothbrush—it’s about asking for help.

What this blog is about: tips for the self-care newbies—the ones who always thought “self-care” meant luxury spas, expensive salon visits, and fancy wellness retreats (aka things that require money and effort). But plot twist: you don’t have to spend a dime to take care of yourself.

Who this blog is also for: this blog isn’t just for self-care rookies still figuring out how to treat themselves—it’s also for the seasoned pros who know what to do but just can’t find the time (or energy) to actually do it because life is a lot. 

Maybe you're a mom juggling four kids, two jobs, and a side business, and by the time you get a moment to breathe, the idea of doing something for yourself feels like just another task. Or maybe hormonal fatigue has you so drained that even the thought of getting dressed and heading to a spa sounds more exhausting than relaxing. Whether you’re just dipping your toes into self-care or simply can’t find the time, this guide is here to help you feel good without making it another overwhelming task.

What is Simple Self-Care?

Simple Self-Care is all about doing the bare-minimum basics that help you feel human—without the pressure of an elaborate routine. It’s for those days (or weeks) when life feels overwhelming, and the idea of a full skincare regimen, a home-cooked meal, or even getting dressed up to leave the house feels like too much.

Think of it as essential upkeep, not perfection—brushing your teeth even if you skip flossing, using a cleansing wipe instead of doing your whole skincare routine, throwing on comfy clothes instead of styling an outfit, or heating up a frozen meal instead of cooking from scratch. It’s about doing enough to feel a little better without burning yourself out.

It’s not about being extra—it’s about finding small, joyful rituals that help you feel good. And lucky for you, we’ve got the easiest (and most relaxing) ways to get started.

 

Simple Self-Care Guide for Beginners

1. The Long, Nighttime Shower 

When the day has steamrolled you, and you’re running on fumes, there’s nothing quite like a long, steamy nighttime shower to reset your mind and body. This isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about giving yourself a moment to unwind, breathe, and let the stress of the day melt away. Because sometimes, a long, hot shower is the closest thing to a spa day you’re going to get—and that’s more than enough.

Here’s how to turn your shower into a full-on self-care ritual (without it feeling like a chore):

Set the vibe 🕯 

• Dim the lights, play a playlist that fits your mood (whether it’s chill, moody, or full-on karaoke mode), and maybe even light a candle. Make it feel like your time.

Lather up with an all-natural soap 🧼 

• Your skin deserves better than harsh detergents. A nourishing, all-natural soap (like Tub Therapy’s Soaperstar CBD Bath Soaps) will make your skin feel soft, clean, and soothed without any unnecessary chemicals.

Take your time 🌊 

• Let the hot water work its magic. Stand there. Breathe deep. Relax your shoulders. If your brain is racing, focus on the warmth, the scent of your soap, or the sound of the water.

Wash your hair (or don’t) 💆‍♀️

• If you’re up for it, go all in with shampoo and conditioner. If not, dry shampoo tomorrow is totally valid.

Go beyond the basics 🛁 

• If you have the energy, throw in an exfoliating scrub, a deep conditioner, or a hydrating body oil. If all you do is stand under the water for a few extra minutes? That’s still a win.
  
  

Bonus: The Weekly Bath Ritual 

Even if life feels chaotic, this one weekly habit can be your reset button. If you can carve out one night a week for a bath, do it—because nothing says “I’m prioritizing myself” like sinking into a warm tub and letting the world wait.

Drop in a CBD bath bomb 🛁

• Not just any bath bomb, but one with full-spectrum CBD (like Tub Therapy’s Soakshow CBD Bath Bombs) to melt away tension, soothe sore muscles, and turn your bath into a full-on relaxation experience.

Breathe in, breathe out💨 

• Let the scent fill the air, close your eyes, and take a deep breath. It’s aromatherapy and body care, all in one.

Make it a thing 📖 

• Read a few pages of a book, listen to a podcast, or just soak in silence. This is your time.

Finish with a simple body ritual 🧴

• After your bath, smooth on a nourishing body lotion or oil to seal in the moisture and keep your skin soft and happy.

2. Get Your Body Moving (Without Calling It a Workout)

We get it—you’re exhausted, and the idea of hitting the gym sounds about as appealing as doing your taxes. But movement doesn’t have to be a full-on workout session. It can be small, simple, and actually enjoyable.

Take a mindful walk 🚶‍♀️ 

• Whether it’s a quick stroll between work meetings, a lunch break outside, or a dedicated “clear your head” walk, just get moving. A little sunlight can do wonders for your energy and mood, so let those limbs stretch, breathe in the fresh air, and let movement feel fun instead of forced. Use it as a chance to be fully present—no scrolling, no emails, just fresh air and movement. 

Dance break therapy 💃 

• Feeling sluggish? Blast your favorite Spotify playlist and move like nobody’s watching. Whether it’s a mini dance party in your kitchen or a full-on performance in your living room, it counts as movement and an instant mood boost. Because self-care isn’t just about stillness—it’s about moving in a way that feels good for you.

3. Romanticize Your Sleep (Yes, Beauty Rest is a Thing)

Sleep isn’t just something you have to do—it can be something you actually look forward to. The secret? Make it feel like a luxurious ritual instead of just crashing in bed. Because if you’re going to spend a third of your life doing it, might as well make it dreamy.

Wear something that makes you feel good 😴 

• Whether it’s clean, crisp pajamas, a silky nightie, or just your softest oversized tee, slipping into something fresh instantly upgrades your bedtime routine.

Fresh sheets = Instant hotel vibes 🛏 

• There’s something about crawling into freshly washed sheets that makes sleep feel 10x better. If it’s been a while (no judgment), treat yourself to a sheet refresh—you deserve it.

Pop an all-natural sleep gummy 💤 

• If you need a little extra help winding down, an all-natural sleep gummy can be a game-changer. Consider it self-care in snack form.

Turn on a humidifier for next-level beauty sleep 💧 

• Not only does it help you breathe easier, but it also keeps your skin hydrated and glowy while you snooze. A subtle flex for your future well-rested self.

4. Elevate Your Eating & Drinking

Eating and drinking well isn’t just about staying alive—it’s about enjoying the experience. A little extra effort can turn a basic meal or drink into something that feels like a treat, without any major effort.

Amp up your hydration 🥒 

• Your body needs fluids to function properly, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for boring water. Add thinly sliced cucumbers, lemon, or berries to your glass for a spa-like refresh. Bonus: It makes hydration feel fancy without any effort.

Blend up a feel-good smoothie🥤

• Need a quick, nutritious boost? Toss some frozen fruit, a handful of greens, and your favorite milk or juice into a blender. It’s delicious, packed with nutrients, and requires zero cooking skills.

Make meals an experience 🍽 

• Even if it’s just toast and coffee, put it on a nice plate, use a real glass, and actually sit down to enjoy it. No eating over the sink or straight from the container (we’ve all been there). Treat every meal like it matters, because you matter. Because self-care isn’t just about what you eat—it’s about how you enjoy it.

 

5. Shift Your Mindset 

Positive thinking is easier said than done, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start small. Your thoughts shape your reality, so why not make them work for you instead of against you? Because self-care isn’t just about what you do—it’s also about what you think.

List your blessings 📝 

• Whether big or small, write down three things you’re grateful for every day. A hot shower, a good song, your comfy bed—appreciating the little things helps shift your focus toward the good.

Post affirmations where you can see them 📜 

• Print them, write them on sticky notes, or turn them into your phone wallpaper. A simple “I am doing my best” reminder can work wonders when life feels overwhelming.

Journaling for the win 📖 

• No need to write a novel—just brain-dump your thoughts for five minutes. Getting them out of your head and onto paper can help you process emotions and clear mental clutter.

Talk to yourself like you would a friend 🗣 

• If you wouldn’t say it to someone you love, don’t say it to yourself. Swap the self-criticism for self-kindness—you deserve it.

 

The Bottom Line: Self-Care Comes in Many Forms

Self-care isn’t just about luxury treatments or all-day spa retreats (though those are great, too!). It can also be simple, everyday choices that help you feel refreshed, cared for, and more like yourself. Whether it’s taking a long, steamy shower, soaking in a CBD bath bomb, sipping on cucumber-infused water, or sneaking in a dance break, small acts of self-care can be just as powerful as the grand ones.

The key? Start where you are. Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming—it just has to work for you. So embrace the little moments, find what makes you feel good, and remember: taking care of yourself is never a luxury—it’s a necessity.