10 Women on the Self-Care Rituals They Swear By

All women deserve a respite from our respective daily grinds. For inspiration, we talked to 12 women about what self-care means to them and how they put it into practice

“I took a tarot card reading course four years ago, and now I’m hooked! Once a week, I set aside time to give myself a three-card reading to reflect upon my past, present, and to see what’s on deck for the future. If I’m going through a difficult situation or could use some guidance, the cards always offer clarity” – Jennifer, 25

“Getting my eyebrows threaded is a must-do. I feel so much more confident afterwards and the results are dramatic.”—Dorothy, 32

“I love to indulge in anything that gets me out of my head and into my body. Along with monthly massages and chiropractic work, I maintain a daily yoga and meditation practice that keeps me grounded and sane, especially in the winter months. I write in a journal first thing every morning. My intention is to connect and communicate with myself first before I share myself with others. It often leaves me feeling clearer and lighter, and I’m more balanced when I step onto the mat to practice.”—Catherine, 28

 

“I like taking very indulgent medicinal baths. A few times a week, I’ll fill my tub with very hot water and pour in epsom salts, fine sea salt, baking soda, or sometimes a bit of peroxide. Next, I fragrance the water with essential oils, rose petals, or rose water. I’ll stay in until I break a sweat. After, I towel off, massage myself in avocado oil, and go to sleep.”—Cambrey, 29

 

“My favorite indulgence is a monthly facial. I’ve had sensitive skin since I was 12, so I’m obsessive about them! They give me an opportunity to relax and I feel like I’m purging the city grime from my face.”—Erinn, 37

 

“I make myself a luxurious meal at least once a month. It doesn’t have to be anything too difficult! I use my best flatware, pour a nice glass of wine, and remind myself that I deserve the best that life has to offer.”—Erin, 37

 

“I watch reality shows to take my mind off of my own stress, like Love & Hip Hop, Teen Mom 2, and Married to Medicine. I also like to listen to my favorite inspirational music that I have been listening to forever”.—Hafeezah, 31

“I live in New York and make it a point to ‘treat’ myself weekly because this city is tough. Whether it’s ordering an expensive glass of champagne, getting a facial, getting a massage, or getting my nails done, self-love is a manifestation.”—Joi-Marie, 31

“I do hot yoga religiously. It’s also helpful for intention-setting, making commitments to myself, and reconnecting to the divine. And on Friday evenings I focus on self-care, transforming my apartment into an at-home oasis, treating my hair and skin, and my mind by practicing mindfulness and meditation exercises.”—Stephanie, 29

 

After a long week, I enjoy spending an evening at home—in a onesie with a bottle of wine and some tacos.”—Danielle, 30