Self care nights are a great way to relax and reset from a busy week. Creating a weekly routine to incorporate a self care night allows you to let go of the daily stresses without feeling guilty or the fear of missing out. This is a standing calendar event in your week and is just as necessary as going out to see your friends. A self care night should include steps to make you feel prepared for tomorrow, care for your body and mind, and a time to make healthy choices for yourself.
1. Prepare for Tomorrow
Reduce mental clutter by laying out clothes, prepping meals/lunch, or checking your work calendar for the next day. This should be the first item checked off the list to reduce your mental load and truly be able to relax.
- Lay out your outfit for tomorrow
- Check your calendar for tomorrow
- Pack your lunch or meal prep
- Set your alarm & plug in your phone
2. Drink a Full Glass of Water (1 Hour Before Bed)
Staying hydrated is an important part of healthy skin, improved sleep, and overall bodily functions and health. Starting out your self care night routine with a glass of water sets you up for a good night’s sleep and a good start to the next day. Just make sure to drink it an hour before bed to prevent waking up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom.
- Drink a full glass of water
- Fill up the water on your bedside table
3. Take a Bath
A lot of us have a bathtub at home, but rarely take advantage of it. Showers feel quicker and more convenient, often reduced to just another task on the to-do list. But adding a bath to your self care night routine can transform the experience into a true act of restoration. Soaking in warm water offers many benefits, including muscle relaxation, stress relief, and improved sleep quality. For the ultimate relaxation, add in some Epsom salts, light a few candles, and bring along a good book.
- Draw a Bath
- Prepare a drink – hot tea, water, etc.
- Grab a book or Kindle
- Light a few candles
- Add in some Epsom salts
4. Skin Care
No self care night feels complete without a little skincare ritual. While you may already have a nightly routine, this is the perfect time to slow down and add a few extra steps. Start with a gentle cleanser, follow with your favorite moisturizer, and apply any treatments you normally use. For an extra touch of self care, include a lymphatic drainage facial massage to relieve muscle tension and leave your skin glowing.
- Complete skin care routine
- Lymphatic drainage facial massage
5. Put on Cozy Pajamas
One of the best parts of a self care night is putting on a clean pair of pajamas. The second you to put them on, it’s like telling your brain, okay, we’re staying inside for the rest of the night. Whether you love a matching satin set, oversized tee, or the fluffiest pair of PJs you own, putting them on instantly changes the evening. It’s an invitation to relax and fully sink into your evening routine.
- Set out your pajamas before a bath or shower
- Throw them in the dryer for 5 minutes
- Pick out a cute matching set to romanticize your evening
6. Entertainment (Screens Off 1 Hour Before Bed)
Give yourself time to unwind with a low-stress activity. Turn off your brain after a long day with a few episodes of your comfort show or play a cozy game. Try to limit screen time an hour before bed, so that you can get a good nights sleep.
- Watch a movie (this has a built-in time limit)
- Watch you’re favorite tv show
- Watch a newly aired episode (schedule self care nights around this weekly)
- Play a video game or computer game
7. Read 10 Pages
If you don’t think of yourself as a reader, this is one of the simplest ways to start. Just pick up a book and read 10 pages before bed. It’s an easy habit that helps you unwind and is far more calming for your mind than scrolling on a screen. Plus, it can improve your sleep quality while slowly turning you into someone who actually looks forward to reading.
- Plug in your phone across the room (make sure to set your alarm)
- Pick an easy, comfortable read
- Read 10 pages (minimum)
Final Thoughts
A weekly self care night isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity for keeping your body, mind, and energy in balance. By setting aside this intentional time, you’re giving yourself permission to slow down, recharge, and create a healthier rhythm in your week. From preparing for tomorrow and caring for your skin, to slipping into cozy pajamas and winding down with a good book, each step is a small but powerful act of self-love. Think of it as a standing date with yourself, just as important as any night out with friends or family. When you honor this routine, you’ll not only feel more relaxed in the moment, but also more refreshed, focused, and ready to take on whatever the week ahead brings.
Start small and schedule a self care night for next week!
