How to Create an At-Home Self-Care Retreat
Here’s the thing: self-care isn’t just a buzzword—it’s crucial to helping us recharge and reset. When a full-on vacation is not in the cards, a staycation self-care retreat can be just the ticket.
We created this schedule as a starting point—of course, feel free to customize it to your needs and interests! As long as you're unwinding and reconnecting with yourself, you're doing it right.
How to Prep
After you've looked through the Schedule below, write down anything that you might be missing before planning your Self-Care Retreat. Do you need a new book to read? Some colored pencils? Soaking salts? You can absolutely do the Self-Care Retreat without spending any money, but if you want to add in a few treats for yourself, you'll want to grab those ahead of time.
Let everyone in your home space know about your Self-Care Retreat plans, so that they give you the space and time you need!
And don't forget to make sure you've got ingredients on-hand to make yourself a comfort meal. Some easy-peasy, maximum-cozy-level recipes we love:
Pick out a comfortable outfit that can carry you through the day. This is not the time to wear something that you have to tug at or adjust throughout the day – instead, choose a 'fit that's going to make you feel good while also allowing you to move well through every activity.
Together, Apart
Invite a friend or loved one to participate on the same day as you so you can keep each other accountable and have someone to debrief with. Some questions to ask at the end of the day: What were your favorite parts of the day? Least favorite? What would you like to make a habit of, that you can carry on in your daily life? Would you do an at-home Self-Care Retreat Day again?
Schedule
[A note on phones: We’re big fans of unplugging, so try keeping your phone and laptop out of reach for most of these activities. If you’re worried about timing, set a kitchen timer, and if anything pops into your head that you want to look up, write it down on what we call “The Later List.”]
10AM: Start your day with some low-key movement. We like Yoga with Adriene's Wake Up Yoga or Madfit's Roll Out of Bed Workout.
11AM: Journal session! Dive into what’s been on your mind: What’s exciting you? What do you want to let go of? What’s one thing future-you will thank you for? Our Look Back Plan Ahead Workbook is here if you need some extra guidance on reflecting and goal-setting.
12PM: Head outside for a photo walk. Capture the small things you find beautiful or intriguing (you don’t need a fancy camera; your phone works just fine). Skip the headphones and let nature do the talking.
1PM: Lunch break! Eat mindfully, savor the flavors, and enjoy a little quiet time after to let your body rest and digest.
2PM: Reading time! Pick up something you’ve been wanting to dive into, or reread an old favorite. Find your coziest nook, a hot drink, and settle in.
3PM: Try Earthing/Grounding (aka: hug a dang tree) – this activity reconnects you and your energy with your natural surroundings. Go barefoot if it's not too cold outside. To still be in touch with nature without taking your shoes off, try hugging a tree, or touching some plants.
4PM: Time for some low-stress creativity (channel Bob Ross's energy level here) paired with chill music. Bust out our You Got This Coloring Book or Collage Kit and let your inner artist shine. Highly recommend the ChillHop playlists on YouTube for good vibes, or anything by Khruangbin.
5PM: Get your body moving again with some gentle exercise. We love Yoga with Adriene's Wind Down Yoga for a peaceful transition into the evening.
6PM: Dinner date (virtual or IRL)! Self-care is usually described as a solo endeavor, but relationships are clutch when it comes to filling your cup. Enjoy the company and savor the moment.
7PM: Pamper time! It’s all about the little luxuries here—a face mask, a foot soak, or maybe a relaxing bath. This is your time to give your body a little extra TLC.
8PM: Keep the self-care vibes going with our Self-Care Master Plan. It walks you through defining what self-care means to you, so you can reference it whenever you need a pick-me-up.
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