When people talk about “self-care,” it can feel overwhelming-like you need a 12 -step routine and a whole day off. But the truth is… self-care is deeply personal. It doesn’t have to be trendy or expensive. It just has to feel like *you*.

This post isn’t about doing more-it’s about doing what feels right for your heart. Whether you’re new to self-care or looking to reconnect with yourself in a softer way, this guide is here to help you create a routine that’s gentle, flexible, and truly yours.

Ask Yourself: What Makes Me Feel Safe?

Before you build your self-care routine, pause and reflect: what truly makes you feel grounded? For some people, it’s a long bath. for others, it’s journaling, lighting a candle, or even just sitting in silence for a moment.

Self-care doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. It can be slow, messy, imperfect-and still beautiful. Start with one thing that brings you back to yourself.

Make It a Ritual, Not a Chore

Self-care isn’t just about what you do-it’s about *how* you do it. Instead of turning it into a checklist, treat it like a little ritual. Even the smallest acts can feel sacred when you give them intention.

Maybe it’s lighting a candle before your shower. Putting on your favorite nightgown. Using your fancy lotion just because. These quiet moments become powerful when you do them for *you*- no pressure, no performance.

Build Your Routine Around the Senses

One of the easiest ways to create a self-care routine that feels like *you* is to center it around your senses-what you see, smell, hear, feel, and taste. Think of it as a little love note to your nervous system.

Start with one or two of these:

• Smell: Choose a scent that calms you (lavender, vanilla, eucalyptus)
• Touch: Wrap yourself in cozy textures (a robe, soft slippers, whipped lotion)
• Sound: Play music or nature sounds that soothe you
• Sight: Light a candle or tidy up a small space so your environment feels calm
• Taste: Sip something warm and grounding (tea, cocoa, lemon water)

Let your senses guide you. There’s no wrong way to care for yourself.

Give Yourself Permission to Evolve

Your self-care routine doesn’t have to look the same every day- or every season. Some weeks you may crave long baths and silence. Other times, your care might be saying “no” to plans or staying in your coziest clothes all day.

Let it shift. Let it grow with you. What matters is that it feels like love, not pressure. That it meets *you* exactly where your are.

There is no perfect self-care routine. But there is one that’s just right for *right now*-and there’s more than enough.

I hope this little guide helps you start (or restart) your self-care journey in a way that’s gentle and true. If you have a favorite mini ritual that brings you peace, I’d love to hear it-drop it in the comments or come say hi on Pinterest (Sudsy Bakery)

Sending bubbles, calm, and care your way

Violette