The new year is a natural time to reflect, refresh, and reset. Have you been able to do that this year? Me neither. What I’ve found, year after year, is that no matter how great my intentions are (and I assure you… I put a lot of thought into my goals and I’m pretty good at tackling them), real life happens.
For example, after meticulously planning my very busy first week back at work after the holiday break, I walked into my basement and saw water leaking through the ceiling. And not just a little bit… a lot. My perfect plans for the week were completely derailed.
Even though life sometimes negates our ‘perfect planning’, I believe that intentional living can solve so many pain points that come with disaster, crisis, or just real life inconveniences.
I recently had the opportunity to be on a favorite podcast of mine – Living with Margin: Peace in Organization. I loved chatting with Karmen, the owner of Aline Boutique about starting the new year and living with more intention. I believe that creating an organized, clutter-free space is one of the most powerful acts of self-care. Your home should be a sanctuary that nurtures your well-being and provides a retreat from the world. The podcast talks about the power of creating intention in your home.
However, self-care doesn’t stop at decluttering!
Self care extends to how we treat our minds, bodies, and spirits. As I embark on this year with a renewed focus on holistic self-care, I’ve compiled a list of small, intentional actions that bring me joy and balance. Whether you’re looking for ways to recharge or curious about how to integrate more self-care into your daily routine, these ideas to prioritize self-care are a great place to start.
Why Self-Care Matters
Self-care isn’t about indulgence—it’s about sustainability. When you prioritize your well-being, you show up more fully for the people and tasks that matter most. As you reset your life this year, remember that small, consistent acts of self-care can transform your energy and outlook.
Creating a home that feels like a haven is one of the most impactful ways to care for yourself. Whether it’s decluttering your physical space, carving out moments of solitude, or treating yourself to a luxurious bath, self-care begins when you make space—both literally and figuratively—for the things that bring you joy.
Let this be the year you prioritize you.
3 Ways to Prioritize Self-Care
1. BASIC SELF-CARE: Building a Strong Foundation
Sometimes, the simplest acts make the biggest impact. These daily habits ensure you’re showing up for yourself every day:
Prioritize Sleep: Aim for at least 7 hours to recharge your body and mind.
Establish a Morning Routine: Start with basic hygiene (brush, floss, tongue scrape, oil pull) and nourish yourself with breakfast.
Hydrate and Nourish: Drink plenty of water and snack on healthy, energizing foods throughout the day.
Pamper Yourself: Treat your skin and hair with care—apply a face mask, a hair mask, or lotion your feet before bed.
Savor Quiet Moments: Take at least 10 minutes each day to sit in stillness, free from distractions.
2. PHYSICAL SELF-CARE: Moving and Connecting with Your Body
Your body is your home—treat it with love and attention.
Get Outside: Spend at least 15 minutes in nature to soak up fresh air and natural light.
Move Your Body: Exercise, stretch, practice yoga, or go for a walk to feel strong and connected.
Relax and Recharge: Take a nap, indulge in a bubble bath, or treat yourself to a massage.
Dance It Out: Put on your favorite music and have a spontaneous dance party—it’s fun and great for your mood.
Pamper Yourself: Paint your nails, shave your legs, or schedule a spa day.
3. MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL SELF-CARE: Nurturing Your Mind and Soul
Caring for your emotional well-being is just as important as caring for your physical health.
Unplug Regularly: Disconnect from devices for an hour or set boundaries, like turning off screens after 7 PM.
Cultivate Gratitude: Write down three things you’re grateful for each day.
Journal Your Thoughts: Reflect on your day, set intentions, or work through emotions on paper.
Learn and Explore: Start a new book, listen to a podcast, or pick up a hobby you’ve put aside.
Connect with Others: Call a friend, play a game with loved ones, or plan a fun outing.
Dream and Plan: Spend time setting personal goals or planning a vacation to look forward to.
Find Inspiration: Read something uplifting, meditate, or watch the sunrise to center your spirit.
Do you have a favorite self-care practice? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below! And if creating a calm, clutter-free home is part of your self-care plan, Reset Your Nest is here to help. Let’s make this year your most organized and fulfilling one yet.
Jen is the founder of Reset Your Nest, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Utah (servicing Salt Lake City, Park City, Ogden, Alpine, Highland, Mapleton, and St. George). She loves creating order and systems out of chaos and is known for bringing a beautiful aesthetic as well as easy to maintain function to any space. She shares her tips and tricks on Instagram @reset_your_nest.
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