The 5 Types of Self Care You Need to Know

When you think about self care, what comes to mind? An image of a warm bath surrounded by candles? A day at the spa?

While many of us may think that way, the reality is that there are numerous types of self care: different facets of ourselves we need to cater to.

And when you think about it, it makes sense. Self care is deliberate action we initiate to cater to aspects of how we function as humans. It’s so much more than pampering ourselves or reading a book.

So for today’s post, I’ll be sharing 5 common types of self care that are worth knowing, and then mindfully incorporating into our lives.

Let’s dive in!

#1. Physical Self Care

Physical self care is about catering to our physical body and its health.

Some ways to practice this form of self care involve eating and sleeping well, getting some exercise, drinking plenty of water, and taking care of any ailments. In fact, I wrote a whole blog post about practicing physical self care! You can check that out here.

#2. Emotional Self Care

Emotional self care is about simply allowing yourself to feel your emotions for what they are. This involves identifying and accepting them with little to no judgement.

Sound hard? It doesn’t have to be.

Instead of glossing over how you feel or distracting yourself from your emotions, find outlets for your feelings like painting or writing, simply crying when you feel the urge, and finding things that make you laugh. They key is to feel your feelings versus pushing them aside.

#3. Intellectual Self Care

Intellectual self care is about exercising your mind and can involve stimulating critical thinking, brainstorming, and creativity.

Some great ways to practice this form of self care are reading an interesting new book, doing some mind puzzles, practicing a creative hobby like writing, drawing, or playing a musical instrument.

#4. Spiritual Self Care

Spiritual self care is about connecting with your values and what really matters to you. It relates to who you are at your core.

Some great ways to practice this form of self care are meditation, journalling, attending a religious service, spending time in nature, and practicing gratitude.

#5. Social Self Care

Social self care is all about connecting with others.

Meet someone for coffee, give one of your good friends a call, say yes to an event invitation, or join a club or group (Meetup is a great starting point!). Connection and conversation can work wonders for your overall wellbeing.

Take the Quiz

Not sure what type of self care you should be focusing on? I’ve actually created a quiz to help you decide!

Did you learn something new? What types of self care do you typically practice, and which ones are new to you? Let me know in the comments below.

Looking for more healthy habits? Check out my post The Ultimate Healthy Habits List to Improve Your Life.