Glow Up: 8 Types of Self-Care Every Woman Should Know

Hello and welcome to my article about the 8 types of self-care! I’m so glad you’re here!

If you’ve landed on this page, chances are you’re searching for something more than just another list of self-care tips.

You’re looking for real, sustainable ways to take better care of yourself while managing all the responsibilities life has placed on your shoulders.

Here’s the truth: Self-care isn’t a luxury – it’s essential maintenance for your mind, body, and spirit.

As women, we’ve been conditioned to believe that taking care of ourselves comes after everything else is done.

But here’s what I’ve learned after 62+ years: when you make self-care a priority, everything else in your life improves.

Your relationships become richer, your work becomes more fulfilling, and you have energy left at the end of the day.

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Why Self-Care Matters More Than Ever

According to the American Psychological Association, 78% of women report putting others’ needs before their own, leading to unprecedented levels of burnout.

If you’re over 40, 50, or 60, like me, that number jumps to 84%.

We’re the sandwich generation – caring for aging parents while supporting adult children.

We’re navigating menopause while crushing career goals. We’re trying to maintain relationships while our bodies and minds are screaming for attention.

This isn’t sustainable. And deep down, you know it.

The Truth About Self-Care Nobody’s Telling You

The World Health Organization defines self-care as “the ability to promote health, prevent disease, and cope with illness.” But that clinical definition misses the heart of it.

Real self-care is radical self-respect.

It’s choosing to believe that your needs matter as much as everyone else’s. It’s understanding that taking care of yourself isn’t preparation for life – it IS life.

The Science-Backed Benefits of the 8 Types of Self-Care

Research reveals that consistent self-care practices:

• Reduce cortisol levels by up to 23% within 8 weeks
• Improve sleep quality by 40%
• Decrease anxiety symptoms by 58%
• Boost immune function by 30%
• Increase life satisfaction scores by 45%

What those self-care statistics mean in real life:

• Actually enjoying your morning coffee while it’s hot
• Having energy to play with grandkids
• Living Life with Curiosity and a Growth Mindset
• Sleeping through the night, every night!
• Finding and Maintaining Peace!
• Feeling excited about your day instead of dreading it
• Looking in the mirror and genuinely liking who you see
• Understanding that it’s Never Too Late to Start Something New!

The Hidden Cost of Neglecting Yourself

When we consistently neglect self-care, our bodies keep score.

Chronic stress increases the risk of heart disease by 40%, accelerates aging at the cellular level, and weakens our immune system.

But beyond the physical toll, there’s an emotional and spiritual bankruptcy that happens when we run on empty for too long.

You know that feeling when you snap at your spouse over something silly? Or when you can’t muster enthusiasm for things you used to love? That’s your soul crying out for self-care.

The (eight) 8 Types of Self-care

There are eight (8) different types of self-care or pillars of self-care.

Understanding these eight distinct types of self-care will help you create a comprehensive approach to wellness that addresses every aspect of your life.

Self-care is all about caring for your whole self, not just indulging in bubble baths and face masks (although those are nice).

The Eight Types of Self-care Are:

1. Physical Self-care
2. Mental self-care
3. Emotional Self-care
4. Social Self-care
5. Professional Self-care
6. Environmental Self-care
7. Spiritual Self-Care
8. Financial Self-care

1. Physical Self-Care: Taking Care of Your Body

Physical self-care is the foundation of all other types of self-care.

It involves activities and practices that improve your physical health, help you feel better in your body, and give you the energy to tackle everything else life throws at you.

When we talk about physical self-care for women, we’re looking at how you move your body, what you put into it, how much rest you give it, and how you care for its basic needs.

For women over 40, physical self-care becomes even more critical as our bodies navigate hormonal changes, metabolism shifts, and the natural aging process.

Practicing physical self-care is about honoring your body’s needs and treating it with the respect it deserves, after all it’s done for you.

And, physical self-care directly impacts your mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall life satisfaction.

Studies show that women who prioritize physical self-care report 60% higher energy levels and 45% better mood stability than those who don’t. It’s not vanity; it’s vitality.

Practical Physical Self-Care Ideas:

• Take a 20-minute walk in nature (bonus: vitamin D!)
• Practice gentle yoga or stretching before bed
• Dance to your favorite music while cooking dinner
• Schedule and keep those annual health screenings
• Take the stairs when you can
• Drink a full glass of water between each cup of coffee
• Go to bed 30 minutes earlier than usual
• Take a luxurious bath with Epsom salts
• Try a new healthy recipe each week
• Practice deep breathing exercises throughout the day
• Get a massage or practice self-massage
• Stand up and stretch every hour if you work at a desk
• Join a fun fitness class with friends
• Create a skincare routine you enjoy
• Meal prep on Sundays for easier weeknight dinners

Related Resources for Physical. Self-Care:

• Morning Self-Care Routine for Women
• My Nighttime Self-Care Routine
• My Favorite Self-Care Apps
• National Sleep Foundation Resources

2. Mental Self-Care: Nurturing Your Mind

Mental self-care encompasses all the activities that keep your mind sharp, engaged, and healthy.

This kind of self-care is so important, even though it sometimes gets overlooked in our busy daily routines.

Taking time to stimulate your mind, keep your thoughts organized, and look after your cognitive health can make a big difference in your overall well-being throughout your life.

Think of mental self-care as strength training for your brain. Just like your muscles need regular exercise to stay strong, your mind needs consistent challenges and stimulation to remain sharp.

This is especially vital for women navigating the mental fog that can come with menopause, stress, or simply the overwhelming nature of modern life.

Practical Mental Self-Care Ideas:

• Read for 15 minutes before bed (fiction counts!)
• Learn something new on YouTube
• Do the daily crossword or Wordle
• Listen to educational podcasts in the car or while on the treadmill.
• Take an online course in something you’re curious about
• Practice mindfulness meditation for mental clarity
• Journal your thoughts every morning
• Learn a new language (there’s an app for that!)
• Watch documentaries on topics that fascinate you
• Join a book club for mental stimulation and social connection
• Write morning pages to clear mental clutter
• Practice gratitude by listing three things you’re thankful for daily
• Declutter your digital life.
• Set boundaries around news and social media consumption
• Try adult coloring books for mindful focus
• Learn a new skill that challenges you

Resources for Mental Health Self-care:

• Digital Detox: Why Your Brain Needs a Break
• Journaling Prompts for Self-Discovery
• Harvard’s Guide to Brain Health
• Headspace Meditation App

3. Emotional Self-Care: Honoring Your Feelings

Emotional self-care is the practice of recognizing, accepting, and nurturing your emotional well-being.

It involves developing a healthy relationship with your feelings, learning to process emotions constructively, and creating space for both joy and sorrow in your life.

For women, who are often expected to be the emotional caregivers for everyone else, emotional self-care can feel foreign or even selfish – but trust me when I say it’s 100% essential for mental health and overall well-being.

This type of self-care means becoming emotionally literate – understanding what you’re feeling and why, without judgment.

Emotional self-care is particularly crucial during major life transitions like divorce, empty nesting, career changes, or loss.

It’s the difference between being overwhelmed by your emotions and being able to surf the waves of life with grace and resilience.

Practical Emotional Self-Care Ideas:

• Keep a feelings journal to track emotional patterns
• Say “no” without explaining or apologizing
• Schedule regular therapy or counseling sessions
• Practice self-compassion when you make mistakes
• Create art as emotional expression (skill doesn’t matter!)
• Listen to music that matches and validates your mood
• Have a good cry when you need it
• Celebrate your wins, no matter how small
• Set and maintain healthy boundaries.
• Practice forgiveness – especially self-forgiveness
• Use positive affirmations that resonate with you
• Connect with friends who let you be authentic
• Write unsent letters to process difficult emotions
• Take mental health days when needed
• Practice emotional release through movement or exercise
• Join a support group for whatever you’re going through
• Use aromatherapy to support emotional balance

Resources for Emotional Self-care:

• Setting Boundaries in Toxic Relationships
• Self-Compassion for Recovering Perfectionists
• Psychology Today’s Therapist Directory
• National Alliance on Mental Illness Resources

4. Social Self-Care: Cultivating Meaningful Connections

Social self-care involves nurturing relationships that feed your soul and stepping back from those that drain you.

For women, who often serve as the social coordinators and emotional glue in relationships, social self-care means being intentional about the quality of connections rather than the quantity.

Human beings are wired for connection, and research consistently shows that strong social relationships are crucial for both physical and mental health.

But social self-care isn’t just about having people around – it’s about cultivating relationships that are reciprocal, supportive, and enriching. This all becomes especially important during life transitions like midlife.

Practical Social Self-Care Ideas:

• Schedule regular coffee dates with friends who energize you
• Join a club or group based on your interests
• Practice active listening without trying to fix everything.
• Reach out to old friends you miss
• Set boundaries with toxic relationships and Your In-laws! 🙂
• Plan regular date nights with your partner
• Host a small gathering (potluck style to reduce stress)
• Join online communities for support and connection
• Volunteer for causes you care about
• Take a class to meet like-minded people
• Practice saying “no” to social obligations that drain you
• Have device-free family dinners
• Write thank-you notes to people who’ve impacted your life
• Join or start a walking group in your neighborhood
• Attend community events or local festivals
• Schedule regular video calls with long-distance loved ones

Resources for Practicing Social Self-Care:

• Meetup.com for Finding Local Groups
• AARP’s Community Connection Resources

5. Professional Self-Care: Thriving in Your Work Life

Professional self-care encompasses all the practices that help you maintain a healthy relationship with your work, whether that’s a traditional career, running a business, managing a household, or volunteering.

Practicing good professional self-care involves setting clear boundaries between work and personal life, discovering joy in what you do, and making sure that your professional pursuits add to your overall happiness rather than drain it.

Did you know that Americans spend an average of 90,000 hours at work over their lifetime – that’s too much time to be miserable or constantly stressed.

When you practice professional self-care you are purposeful about your work environment, relationships with colleagues, professional development, and work-life integration and (here’s a big one) working smarter, not harder!

Practical Professional Self-Care Ideas:

• Set clear work hours and stick to them
• Create a morning routine that sets you up for success
• Organize your workspace for efficiency and calm
• Learn to delegate tasks that don’t require your expertise
• Take all your vacation days (they’re part of your compensation!)
• Set up an ergonomic workspace to prevent physical strain
• Pursue professional development and a Growth Mindset
• Say”no” to activities that don’t align with your core beliefs
• Create an end-of-workday ritual to transition to personal time
• Set healthy boundaries with collegues
• Update your LinkedIn profile and resume regularly
• Find a mentor or become one yourself

Resources Practicing Professional Self-care:

• Work-Life Balance for Women Over 40
• Side Hustle for Women 40+
• Forbes Women’s Career Resources

6. Environmental Self-Care: Creating Spaces That Serve You

I think environmental self-care is about intentionally creating and maintaining physical spaces that support your well-being, reduce stress, and bring you joy.

Your surroundings profoundly impact your mood, productivity, and overall health.

Your environment includes your home, workspace, car, and any other spaces where you spend significant time.

Research shows that cluttered, chaotic environments increase cortisol levels and make it harder to focus, relax, or feel creative.

On the flip side, organized, pleasant environments can reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and boost overall life satisfaction.

Taking care of the environment around us becomes especially meaningful during significant life changes, such as when children leave home, go through divorce or separation, or experience a loss.

Practical Environmental Self-Care Ideas:

• Declutter one drawer or surface at a time
• Add plants to your living spaces for better air quality
• Create a cozy reading nook just for you
• Use essential oils or candles for pleasant scents
• Organize your closet to make mornings easier
• Play background music that lifts your mood
• Create a dedicated workspace if you work from home
• Make your bedroom a sleep sanctuary.
• Keep your car clean and organized
• Add personal touches like photos or artwork you love
• Maintain comfortable room temperature and humidity
• Create a meditation or prayer corner for quiet time
• Organize digital spaces like your computer desktop
• Use soft lighting in the evening for better sleep

Related Resources for Environmental. Self-Care:

• Marie Kondo’s KonMari Method
• The Spruce’s Home Organization Guides

7. Spiritual Self-Care: Connecting to Purpose and Meaning

Spiritual self-care involves practices that nurture your spirit, help you connect with something greater than yourself, and provide a sense of meaning and purpose in life.

This doesn’t necessarily mean religion (though it certainly can); it’s about whatever helps you feel connected to your deeper self, your values, and your place in the larger tapestry of existence.

For women navigating midlife questions about purpose and legacy, spiritual self-care can provide crucial grounding and direction.

Spiritual self-care recognizes that humans are meaning-making creatures. We need to feel that our lives matter, that we’re part of something bigger, and that there’s purpose to both our joys and struggles.

Having a solid spiritual self-care practice becomes especially important during times of transition or crisis.

When life feels chaotic or uncertain, spiritual practices provide an anchor. They remind us of what truly matters and help us maintain perspective.

Practical Spiritual Self-Care Ideas:

• Start a daily gratitude practice
• Spend time in nature to feel connected
• Practice meditation or centering prayer
• Attend religious or spiritual services if that resonates
• Read spiritual or philosophical texts that inspire you.
• Practice yoga for mind-body-spirit connection
• Volunteer for causes aligned with your values
• Keep a spiritual journal for reflection
• Practice forgiveness and letting go
• Explore your values and what gives life meaning
• Connect with a spiritual community or mentor
• Practice acts of kindness and service
• Spend time in silence and solitude
• Create or engage with art as spiritual practice
• Practice mindful walking or movement
• Explore different spiritual traditions with curiosity

Related Resources for Spiritual Self-care:

• Finding Purpose in Midlife
• How to Practice Spiritual Self-care
• How to Meditate as a Christian
• Chopra Center’s Meditation Resources
• Sounds True Spiritual Resources

8. Financial Self-Care: Creating Security and Peace of Mind

Financial self-care involves taking conscious, proactive steps to manage your money in ways that reduce stress and support your overall well-being.

This includes developing a healthy relationship with money, making informed financial decisions, and creating financial systems that align with your values and goals.

For women over 40, financial self-care might involve catching up on retirement savings, planning for aging parents, supporting adult children, or preparing for potential career transitions.

Bottom line: Financial self-care is ultimately about creating choices and reducing the stress that financial uncertainty brings.

Practical Financial Self-Care Ideas:

• Check your bank accounts weekly
• Create a simple budget that reflects your values
• Automate bill payments to reduce mental load
• Start an emergency fund with whatever you can afford
• Review and understand your credit report
• Cancel subscriptions you don’t use
• Plan meals to reduce food waste and spending
• Meet with a financial advisor for guidance
• Increase retirement contributions by 1%
• Create a debt payoff plan that feels achievable
• Talk openly with your partner about money
• Teach your children financial literacy
• Research and compare insurance options

Resources for Financial Self-care:

• Suze Orman’s Women & Money Resources
• National Endowment for Financial Education

FAQs: The 8 Different Types of Self-care

Why is self-care important?

Self-care is essential for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life. It can reduce stress, improve our mood, and increase our well-being.

How should I practice Physical Self-care?

By leading an overall healthy lifestyle. Take care of your body by eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. Also, remember to take care of any medical needs.

How often should I practice self-care?

Practicing self-care regularly is important, but the frequency will depend on your needs. Try to incorporate self-care activities into your daily routine.

Can I practice self-care if I have a busy schedule?

Yes, self-care doesn’t have to take up a lot of time. Even taking a few minutes daily to practice self-care can make a difference.

Is self-care selfish?

No, self-care is not selfish. Taking care of ourselves allows us to be our best selves for others.

How can I make self-care a habit?

Make self-care a priority by scheduling it into your daily routines. Consistency is critical, so try to make self-care a regular part of your day.

What is the best way to practice mental self-care?

Keep your mind stimulated and engaged by reading, learning a new skill, or engaging in creative activities. Be mindful of negative self-talk and what you are thinking about frequently.

What is the best way to practice emotional Self-care?

Recognize and process your emotions healthily. Journaling, therapy, and talking to loved ones are all great ways to practice emotional self-care.

What is the best way to practice social self-care?

Social interactions are essential! Spend time with loved ones, join social clubs or organizations, or volunteer.

What are the best ways to practice self-care professionally?

Set boundaries, keep your work area clean, take lunch breaks, and prioritize your work-life balance.

What is environmental self-care?

Environmental self-care is caring for your physical environment by keeping your living space clean and organized, which can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

What is spiritual self-care, and how can it help me?

Spiritual self-care helps us find meaning and purpose in our lives.

We can connect with something greater than ourselves through practicing a religion or spirituality, meditating, or spending time in nature.

How can I practice financial self-care?

Get control of your finances by budgeting, saving, and investing in your future.

Conclusion: (Eight) 8 Types of Self-care

At 62 years old, I’ve learned that self-care is all about kindness and patience with ourselves.

Don’t think you’ve got to be perfect or that you have to change everything overnight.

Every woman’s self-care journey looks different. What works for your best friend might not work for you.

What felt right in your thirties might need adjusting in your forties and beyond. That’s not just okay – it’s expected.

Self-care is a practice that evolves with you.

As you begin implementing these eight types of self-care, remember that there will be some days, self-care might be a long walk and a healthy meal.

Other days, it might be simply drinking enough water and getting to bed on time. Both count. Both matter.

Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can. And trust that every small act of self-care is building a foundation for a life you genuinely enjoy living.

You’ve got this, and I’m here cheering you on every step of the way.

XO, Christine

P.S. – Remember, choosing yourself isn’t an act of selfishness – it’s an act of wisdom. When you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to show up for everything and everyone that matters to you. That’s not selfish; that’s smart. 💕