Is anyone else starting to feel worn out from this year? As a teacher, I am quickly approaching the last nine weeks of school. And boy, I am FEELING the stress! Usually, when I am starting to feel burnt out from my classroom, I know it is time for a self-care day. With the spring season upon us, now is the perfect time to take that personal day and simply enjoy some rest and relaxation.

 

Taking off from work but not sure how to spend the time out of the office? The following seven ideas are suggestions to have a restful and relaxing self-care day:



  1. Grab coffee and breakfast at your favorite cafe.

First self care idea, Self care ideas, get your favorite coffee, holding up a coffee, treat yourself for your mental health

My favorite way to begin a self-care day is to head out to my favorite coffee shop in the morning. Usually, I can only stop by on weekends for brunch amongst the crowds, but a weekday self-care day provides an opportunity to enjoy my coffee in peace. In Fort Lauderdale, my favorite coffee shop is The Alchemist. I love going for their famous iced coffee and reading a good book in the garden. Staying close to home on your self-care day? Try making your favorite coffee drinks at home for a day spent in. 




  1. Be a tourist in your own city.

Second Self care idea, get outside, get some exercise, kayaking, help with your physical health

Even though I live in Fort Lauderdale, FL, I sometimes forget to enjoy the beauty of where I live amongst my day-to-day responsibilities. My favorite self-care days have been ones where I get to play tourist in my own city and enjoy doing something fun where I live! For me, this usually means hitting the beach or spending the morning on a paddleboard exploring the mangroves. After grabbing that morning coffee, choose a place you have been meaning to visit in your city or plan for your favorite outdoor activity!

 

  1. DIY a manicure.

Do your nails need a little TLC? Spend some time on your self-care day giving yourself an at-home manicure and pedicure. Trust me, it will make work more bearable the next day with freshly painted nails to show off. At-home manicures are easy to do with just a few simple steps. Personally, I have made the switch to non-toxic nail polish, which makes the DIY process much more enjoyable without the smells and remover. My favorite brand is Kapa Nui Nails!

 

  1. Host a spa day inside.

Self care ideas, self care idea, self care routine, book on a coffee table, practice self care. ultimate self care day, spa day

    Nothing says “self-care day” more than some at-home spa treatment! Draw a bubble bath, pour a glass of wine, and grab a face mask for a relaxing and rejuvenating afternoon off. 

     

    1. Unwind with a good book.

    Read a book, read your favorite book, reading a book, on your to-do list, self care list

    When was the last time you read a good book? Sure, Netflix is great, but there is something about staying in bed and unwinding with a good book that can make a self-care day even better. Make it a point to spend time with yourself and focus on the book you are reading.



    1. Put up a pot of soup for dinner. 

      In my opinion, there is nothing cozier than putting on a pot of soup for the day, smelling the aromas throughout the house, and having an easy dinner ready to go at night! Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for both a simple but nourishing meal to end your self-care day. My favorite soup recipes are from Ambitious Kitchen!



      1. Treat yourself to something sweet.

      Last Self-care ideas, self care ideas, treat yourself, fancy meal, delicious meal, yummy cupcakes, sweet treat, cupcakes

        What better excuse to indulge in your favorite treats than on a self-care day? Stop by your favorite bakery to grab some gourmet cupcakes, or bake your own sweet treats to enjoy at home. These cupcakes were locally picked up from the Mustard Seed Bistro in Plantation, FL, and were the perfect treat to end my self-care day with! 

         

         

        I hope these ideas inspire your next self-care day and encourage you to take time for YOU!

         

        About the Author

        Danielle Pierce is a first-grade teacher, adjunct writing professor, and copywriter. She began as an intern for Decocrated during summer 2021. Danielle is an avid equestrian, and when she is not prepping for her classes or writing blogs for Decocrated, you can probably find her at the barn.