54 Best Self Care Sunday Ideas To Recharge & Reset

In this post, you will find ideas for activities to add to your Self-care Sunday routine.

There is a quote that says…
“if you don’t pick a day to relax, your body will pick it for you”

You see- it’s easy to make ourselves think that we are rocking this life thing just because we’re constantly busy, crossing things off of our to-do lists.

But how do you feel when all of your time is spent doing things for your job, home, kids, spouse, parents, friends with no attention to yourself at all?

Drained? Empty? Uninspired? Maybe even resentful?

There is a pleasant and elegant solution to this and that is …….drumroll please…. Self-Care Sundays.

Let’s talk about it.

Why Is Self-Care Important?

Self-care is essential to you living your best life.

If you don’t take care of yourself and treat your mental and physical resources like the precious gems that they are, you aren’t being a good steward of the life you’ve been given.

Everything worthwhile in this life requires maintenance.
Your body, mind and soul are no different.

Here are just a few ways that self-care helps you:

• Builds a better work-life balance (something I think many of us struggle with)
• Reduces stress
  I believe minimizing stress should be a top priority for everyone.
• Improves physical and mental health
  Feel better, live better, be better!
• Fuels your inspiration
  You can’t pour from an empty cup and you can’t give what you don’t have.

Yup, self-care is a little concept that brings tremendous results; therefore, it’s essential to never forget about it.

Heck- God rested. Why shouldn’t you?

What Is Self Care Sunday?

Life makes it pretty easy to toss self-care to the backseat.

Which is why you have to schedule it in. Enter our hero -> self-care Sundays.

It’s a day that you set aside for yourself.
Yup, an entire day (or a portion of the day) that you spend intentionally catering to your physical, emotional, and mental health.

It’s labeled as a Sunday because this is usually the day of the week when people have the most free time and can reset for the week ahead. 

(But since everyone’s schedule is different, if you feel like some other day is better for you – go for it!)

Why Is Self-Care Sunday Important?

Like I mentioned, it’s easy to give self care low priority in a busy life.
Who can settle down comfortably with a book when literally all the clothes are dirty and laundry needs to be washed or folded?

Self-care Sunday means scheduling and prioritizing the time you need to take a breath, reset and restore your energy for a new week, while everything else waits.

Here are just a few ways this will change your life:

• Feel more energized and ready to conquer the world. No more sad Mondays barely dragging yourself out of bed. Come to work with a positive ‘can-do’ attitude.
• Live with purpose and intention. This will help you in your business and personal life; no more spending time on things and people that don’t matter. A rested mind has clarity.
• No more feeling overwhelmed and burned out. This will allow you to enjoy life more, experience more things, and generally be happier and calmer.

Here are some tips for making your weekly self-care day happen (no matter what the laundry situation looks like).

How To Create A Self-Care Sunday Routine

The key to the success of a self-care Sunday is to keep on doing it, and the best way to do it is by creating a routine.

It’s not as difficult as it sounds! Let’s look into how to create a perfect routine for you.

• The first step is to think about what actually recharges or inspires you.

What do you actually enjoy? Because it’s not the same for everyone.
Be realistic and write down as many things as you can think of.

You can start by reading my post on self care and love language.

• Now, determine how much time you’re ready to dedicate to yourself right now.

In a perfect world, you’d have the entire day, but realistically it may only be an afternoon or a few hours before bed.

Don’t worry – even if you spend just 30 minutes on yourself, you’ll still see a difference. Just be sure you set yourself up for success and don’t plan more things than you have time for.

• The final step is to choose your activities. 

Now that you have thought through your schedule and how much time you’ll have – go through the list below and create a routine by identifying a few options to try out.

50+ Restorative Self-Care Sunday Ideas

Depending on how much time you have, you might want to do several of these, or just one. 

Don’t focus on quantity, though; focus on quality. Even if it’s something that only takes 15 minutes, be sure you intentionally spend them on yourself.

Also remember that you have the freedom to adjust your self care activities at any time.

Don’t pick something just because it seems like the “go-to” self care activity. For example- if getting your nails done doesn’t do anything for you, skip right over that! Don’t pick it just because all the pictures you’ve seen of self care include manicures and spa time.

Okay, here we go….

1. Have a slow wakeup

Set yourself up for a chill and relaxing day in the morning.

Turn off the alarm. Sleep in. Don’t rush into chores or errands. 
This is your time to forget schedules, stretch, do nothing, be bored, meditate, have a hot cup of herbal tea or coffee.

Take a breath before the day takes you away.

2. Make a batch of infused water

It’s a delicious and luxurious way to stay hydrated all day.

Here’s a collection of 23 easy fruit-infused water recipes that are aesthetically refreshing.

3. Splurge on a decadent pastry

Visit a local bakery for a tasty new treat that you wouldn’t normally spend money on.

Or if you like to bake, find a new recipe and make a new goodie to enjoy.

Not only will it be a delicious experience, it’s exciting to try something new. It will have you looking forward to Sunday every week.

4. Color!

I am a big advocate for adult coloring as a means of relaxation and mindset-building.

Bust out your favorite coloring pens and create something beautiful. You can use my collection of free, printable affirmational coloring pages.

5. Watch your favorite comedies

This is one of my go-to’s.
Laughter is medicine, so lighten up your me-time by watching your favorite comedies or stand-up comedians.

6. Meditate

Meditation is an age-old way to calm the mind, become more present and get rid of anxiety. The best part – it can be as brief as just 5 minutes!

A simple way to start is with the Headspace app (I’ve got a free trial that you can use).

7. Practice positive self talk

You can also use this opportunity to achieve self growth by dedicating some time to work on your self talk.

This is something that our inbox family works on weekly, so if you’d like to join, subscribe!

8. Spend time reading

Maybe it’s that new novel you keep hearing about or a new personal development book.

Curling up with a book and a glass of your favorite beverage can be relaxing and therapeutic.

9. Make a gratitude list

If your week has been draining, focusing on gratitude can bring you a breath of fresh air.

Just sit down and list the everyday joys that are easy to take for granted. This list will help you notice and appreciate them more in the future, which brings a positive outlook that will serve you for the rest of the week.

10. Take yourself to the movies

When you go by yourself, you get to pick the flick and the snacks, with no interruptions.

The stresses of the week become easier to bear when you remember that you have a movie date with yourself on Sunday.

11. Do some gardening

Getting your hands into some dirt and nurturing those seeds and plants forces you to focus on the right here and right now. How soothing.

12. Light a candle (or diffuse essential oils)

Surround yourself with calming and relaxing smells. Or maybe comforting scents that arouse good memories.

13. Spend time by yourself

This might sound not like a big deal, but spending time by yourself can be very restorative and healing.

Especially if you’re an introvert or prone to sensory overload.

No loud noises, no news or podcasts. Just a time to be by yourself with your thoughts and feelings.

14. Watch cute animal videos

There are tons of these online and let’s be honest – how can a little baby panda being silly and clumsy not soothe your heart?

15. Break out the weighted blanket

Not many things bring more comfort and endorphins than the simple act of hugging someone.
Take a nap with a weighted blanket to simulate the benefits of a hug.

16. Spend time with nature

It’s well known that spending time outside has a positive effect on your mood and energy. So why not go outside for a walk in the park, for example.

17. Declutter

It sounds like work, but decluttering is actually a great, peace-inducing practice.

A clean and organized space leads to a healthy and creative mind, so don’t underestimate the power of organization.

18. Catch up on your podcasts

Many podcasts are weekly so you can easily save your favorite podcast for Sunday catch up.
It’s a nice activity to add to your walk outside or while you’re in bed slowly waking up.

19. Face mask

If pampering yourself makes you feel new again, then adding a face mask to your Sunday routine will add an extra pep to your step.

20. Enjoy a special skincare routine

And why stop at a face mask? Spend your time doing all those extra steps in your skincare routine.

21. Go for a bike ride

A great combination of moving your body and enjoying nature.

22. Visit someplace new

Does being adventurous make your soul happy?
Become a tourist in your city and explore something new and exciting on Sundays.

23. Look through old photos

A fun little way to reminisce and remember the beautiful moments you’ve had in life and the amazing people you’ve met.

24. Buy yourself some fresh flowers

This is a fantastic way to treat yourself and demonstrate self-love.

25. Digital detox

Social media can be draining so why not have a digital detox day (or maybe at least a few hours) to refuel. Put the devices away and ignore those notifications and emails.

26. Make a vision board

Find some inspiration by imagining your perfect future.

I’ve got a vision board checklist, vision board printables and vision board quotes to help you out.

27. Craft something

Sometimes making something with your own hands is just what the doctor ordered.
It can be as simple as printing and framing a few pictures or as complicated as a room renovation. Whatever rocks your socks!

28. Worship and prayer

Don’t forget spiritual self care! There is healing and renewal to be found in the presence of God through worship and prayer.

29. Get your nails done

Or maybe do your own manicure and pedicure – it’s up to you.

30. Sunday brunch

Your self-care day doesn’t have to be spent all by yourself. Having a brunch with your friends and family can be just as restorative and fulfilling as anything else.

31. Try mindful eating

When you sit down to eat something delicious, try to be in the moment.

Pay attention to the texture and flavor of your food. Truly experience every bite. This little change alone can turn your usual lunch into an experience.

32. Get a massage

This is a pricier option, but it will melt away all the stress you have in your body.

33. Visit the Farmer’s Market

It’s a fun stroll and it gives you the chance to support small businesses and buy fresh, organic produce for the week. 

34. TV or Movie binge

Sometimes all you need is some hours on the couch and a streaming service account. That’s perfectly ok!

35. Journal

Putting your thoughts on paper can be very healing. Plus, journaling can be a creative hobby and inspire self growth.

If you’re not journaling daily, you can journal weekly on your self care day using self discovery, gratitude and/or self love prompts.

36. Enjoy your hobby

Whatever it is that you like doing but can never seem to find time to do, do it on your self-care Sunday.

37. Eat something delicious

Treat yourself to something yummy.

Maybe you can finally take extra time to cook a healthy breakfast. Or, splurge on delicious takeaway and skip cooking all together.

38. Sing your heart out

Don’t hold back! Sing your favorite songs at the top of your lungs. A good mood is guaranteed!

39. Take care of your houseplants

Watering, potting, fertilizing, cleaning and pruning your plant babies can be an extremely meditative and restorative process. 

40. Do something from your bucket list

Your bucket list is there to give you ideas on what to do with your free time.

41. Write a letter to yourself

Write about the things you’ve achieved, the things you’re proud of, something you learned… Write what you want to achieve in the future, your goals, something you’re excited about…

Saving your letters from week to week allows you to look back and reflect on your growth.

42. Stretch

Reduce stress and improve your mobility and flexibility with a good stretch.

43. Learn something new

Learning things is like an exercise for the brain, plus it’s fun and rejuvenating!

Choose something you’ve always wanted to try and take a MasterClass from the expert in that field.

44. Clean out your social media accounts

You don’t need empty or toxic personalities in your life and letting go of them is rewarding and freeing. Take this opportunity to review who you have in your life and reassess whether following them brings you peace or inspiration.

45. Clear your mind

Do a brain dump and write down everything you want or have to do. This allows your brain to relax, knowing that it’s all on paper and that you’ll get to it, one task at a time.

46. Take a bath

What is more relaxing than a hot bath with bubbles and salts? Allow yourself to enjoy it guilt-free and relax.

47. Meal plan for the week

Sometimes the best thing that you can do to take care of yourself on Sunday is to prepare for the week ahead.

Your week will be so much smoother and stress-free if you don’t have to worry about what to eat. Spend some time meal planning for you or your family on Sunday.

48. Take yourself on a date

Time to don that cute dress and visit that new restaurant downtown. Take yourself on a dream date and show yourself that you’re worth it!

49. Add a page to your scrapbook

If stickers, photos, calligraphy and memories bring you joy, designate Sunday as your scrapbooking day.

50. Coffee with a friend

It’s always lovely to catch up with a good friend, so why not enjoy a hot cup of coffee and have a nice chat.

51. Make your weekly To-Do list

Listing everything that you desire to do in the upcoming week is a great way to feel prepared for what lies ahead.

52. Have a dance party

Turn on your favorite playlist and dance your heart out!

53. Move your body

Go for a jog.. do a set of jumping jacks… Or maybe get that yoga app and start your day with a sun salutation.

Physical activity brings endorphins and keeps you healthy. Which is why it’s always a good idea to add it to your self-care Sunday routine in one way or another.

54. Break open the self care kit

A self-care care package is a collection of things that you can rely on to lift you out of an undesirable mood or mental state. Just like self-care Sundays, it’s a proactive way to look after your emotional and mental wellness.

What better day to make one or use one than your designated day for self care?

I hope this list has helped you figure out what to do for your perfect self-care Sunday.

Use it to bring yourself more love, energy and fulfillment.

My Happy Self-Care Sunday

Sunday is my personal favorite day for self-care. I love to end the previous week with reflection and relaxation and start the upcoming week with some planning and serenity.
My routine typically goes like this.

1. Wake up slow and lie awake in bed for a while just thinking (or sometimes scrolling through my phone)
2. Make or buy myself coffee or a smoothie
3. Eat something delicious
4. Worship / attend church
5. Meal prep for the week
6. Write a To-Do list for the week
7. Binge on shows and/or movies with the hubby
8. Wind down with a glass of wine (or should I say wine down ;))

What’s your self care day like??

I’d love to know so comment below!

Happy Self-Care Sunday!!