The start of a new year can be a wonderful time to focus on developing or improving yourself—and self-care plays a vital role in that. Remember, self-care is a personal journey, and it doesn’t follow a straight line. On those tougher days, know that you’re not alone. We’re here to support you every step of the way. Text CONNECT to 741741 at any time to reach a volunteer Crisis Counselor.

How to Establish a Daily Self Care Routine List

Practicing self-care as part of your daily routine can greatly improve your personal growth. It also helps your physical, mental, and emotional health. 

1. Begin by figuring out which parts of your life you want to improve. This could be your career, relationships, or self-confidence. 
2. Write these goals down or create a vision board to help you visualize and stay motivated. Having something tangible to refer back to can keep you motivated.
3. The challenge often lies in keeping up with these goals as life becomes busy. Be kind to yourself through the process and focus on small, daily steps. Progress, no matter how small, is a step forward. (Tip: Seek out an accountability partner or track your progress in a journal to remind you.)

25 Self Care and Wellness Tips for 2025

We’ve compiled a list of 25 self-care ideas and activities to inspire and guide you. These ideas can help you reduce stress. Don’t be afraid to try something new this year; even small changes can have a significant impact on your overall wellness. Remember, prioritizing your mental and emotional health is the foundation for a better you.

1. Plan a social media break: Choose a specific time to not be on any social media outlet. Many phones offer screen time limitations.
2. Try a new recipe: Challenge yourself by making something yummy and new! You got this.
3. Stop and breathe: We live in a remarkably fast-paced society. Remember to stop and breathe every now and then.
4. Plan an outing: Planning a fun day in the distant future – who doesn’t love something fun to look forward to!
5. Practice mindful eating: Eat healthy food without any distractions. Enjoy the food you’re eating and thank your body for all that it does for you.
6. Switch up your evening routine: Throw a (fun) wrench in your typical evening routine like taking a walk with a friend!
7. Manage your money: This might not look like self-care. However, it can help lessen your worries and anxiety about money. 
8. Listen to music and dance to your favorite song! Every time you hear a song you like, add it to a dance playlist. Check out our Spotify playlists here. 
9. Volunteer at Crisis Text Line. Helping others is a great way to further develop yourself.
10. Get crafty: Spend time scrapbooking!
11. Find a new podcast: Try seeking out something new that interests you.
12. Schedule an appointment you’ve been avoiding: Get it over with!
13. Light a candle: One that brings you warmth.
14. Complete a puzzle: Or try to, at least.
15. Make a smoothie: Blend up all your favorite things. Homemade is better sometimes!
16. Watch cute animal videos: Another instant serotonin boost.
17. Schedule a therapy session: Whether you’re actively attending or never have before – book it. 
18. Text someone you love and check-in: “Hey, you good? Just checking in.” works perfectly.
19. Repeat positive affirmations to yourself: Write them down somewhere that you see often.
20. Watch a movie that makes you smile every time: A feel-good movie always wins.
21. Unplug for a day: Or for the majority of the day, at least. 
22. Get a good night’s rest: Research shows that adults need at least 7 hours of sleep.
23. Read a book.
24. Take a mental health day.
25. Text CONNECT to 741741 if you need to vent or just need someone to talk to.

With these 25 tips, we hope that you will prioritize self-care in 2025. Remember that self-care means knowing when you need support and where to find help. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or need someone to talk to, text CONNECT to 741741 to reach Crisis Text Line. Our free and confidential service connects you with trained volunteers who are ready to listen and provide support 24/7. 

If you value helping others, think about volunteering for Crisis Text Line. You can provide comfort to those in need. Taking care of yourself and others is the ultimate form of self-care.