When living with a chronic illness, you learn fast that self-care is not always about bubble baths and spa days. Most of the time, it’s about survival.
A lot of the care done to our bodies tends to be gentler due to varying energy levels and the unpredictability of different health conditions. If, like me, you struggle with self-care, I want to provide you with a small list of ways that may be beneficial to caring for yourself.
List of 10 Gentle Self-Care Practices
Here are examples you can use or tweak to fit your needs:
- Set Realistic Daily Goals – Instead of long to-do lists, focus on 1–2 must-dos and let the rest go.
- Practice Rest Without Guilt – Resting is productive when you’re managing a chronic illness.
- Soothing Movement – Gentle stretching, slow walks, or yoga on good days.
- Sensory Comfort – Soft blankets, calming scents, or cozy lighting can regulate your nervous system.
- Digital Boundaries – Limit doom-scrolling when you’re flaring; it drains energy fast.
- Sleep – Sleeping will help to refresh your body and help you gain mental clarity.
- Hydration & Nourishment – Keep snacks and water nearby — small actions that make a big difference.
- Ask for Help (Without Apologizing) – Accept that needing help doesn’t make you a burden.
- Take a Warm Bath– A warm bath can help relax muscles, reduce stress and prepare the body for sleep.
- Celebrate Tiny Wins – Take pride in small victories — getting dressed, doing school drop-off, or just getting through the day.
Remember, some days, self-care is just taking a shower and making sure that you feed yourself for the day, and that’s ok.
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