She acknowledged that the last year has been difficult for her mental health.
So, she decided to be proactive about her future emotional wellbeing. She couldn’t control outside factors, but she could make herself a self-care kit for 2023.
Essentially, she was taking matters into her own hands.
How brilliant! There is a lot in life that we can’t control. But how we take care of our mental and physical health is still up to us. It’s time to acknowledge that.
“We can not direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails.”
DOLLY PARTON
And a self care box makes a fantastic addition to whatever season you’re in OR a perfect gift to someone you love!
What is a Self Care Kit?
A self care kit is simply a collection of items that make you feel good. They support your emotional health by nourishing you, uplifting you, and sometimes bringing you back from the brink.
So, let’s build a magnificent comfort box. One that helps gain perspective when you desperately need it.
What Should Go in a Self Care Kit?
Your exact self care basket is up to you, but here’s what you’ll find in the article:
25 effective (but inexpensive!) ideas to put in your kit
What is in my self care box
Pre-made wellness solutions
Start With Visual Ideas
First, check out these diy self care kit ideas to get started!
Sometimes, what we need most is to escape when we’re low. Whether that’s a murder mystery, action-adventure, or longing romance, find something you’ll ENJOY. We won’t judge!
Just, get a book that will take you to a faraway place. Preferably a beach.
2. A Fresh New Journal & Fun Pens
*Great value!
Journaling is therapy.
And we ALL need some good therapy sometimes! So, add a beautiful journal to the mix or some bright pens that you’ll be excited to use. Then, alleviate your worries and stress with a good writing session.
3. Nail Polish
Sometimes, a girl just needs to feel pretty. Am I right?
So, indulge in quality nail polish or fake nails for when the time is right. There are a lot of options for easy nails these days!
Next, print some photos that you love or create a go-to collection of photos in your phone. Often, looking at pictures of your friends and family can give you a needed mental boost. See these popular photo frames>>
Tip: I got family photos taken last fall for the sole purpose of having something new to look at in winter!
5. A Vision Board Kit
Avision board kit can be just what you need to re-align with what you want out of life – pulling you out of a rut.
6. Thank You Cards
*Amazon’s Choice
There’s no doubt, we’ve all felt disconnected from others in some way.
So, add a few thank you notes to your kit to send to those you love. Not only will it boost your mental health, but you’ll make someone else feel good as well.
Additionally, for a variety of books to put in your kit, see this list of the current NY Times Best Sellers. You won’t regret having a few exceptional reads ready when you’re stuck inside.
Next, Find the Right Kind of Noise
9. Affirmation Cards
*Reader Favorite!
After an affirmation challenge turned me into a groupie, I had to include some easy affirmation cards that help you love on yourself. Because we all need extra love once in a while.
Next, another list for your self love kit! Hey, it’s free!
Spend a bit of time searching for podcasts that you can check out and that will help you feel good. There are SO MANY inspiring podcasts out there today. And they are an amazing resource for mental health and growth.
*This unique Dead Sea Mud Mask is also a favorite for self-care box ideas.
14. Massage Products
Invest in a great massage oil or lotion if you love a good massage. Then, even if you can’t get out, talk your partner into a short massage on tough nights.
And finally for touch, sometimes upgrading or replacing an old bath product does the trick. A sharp new razor, bath scrub, or shaving gel can be a low-cost way to perk you up when you’re down.
As it turns out, smell makes a big impact on our emotional health. So, try lavender for relaxation and peppermint for a little pep in your step (source). And check out the two easiest ways to get them below!
So, keep your mood enhancers in the self care kit as a reminder to be utilizing this important tool.
19. Candles
A great self care basket includes at least one candle that makes you happy. So, buy a fresh candle and stick it in for easy access when you need to relieve stress.
Tasty & Healthy Treats for Your Self Care Basket
Ah, food. Our bodies need wholesome quality options, but sometimes you also need a small splurge that gets you through the day.
20. Chocolate
Who doesn’t crave a bit of chocolate now and then?
Now, this doesn’t have to be a sugar bomb (unless you want it to be). There are a lot of high-quality chocolate bars on the market today. Buy something with 85-95% cocoa, and you’ll find the sugar is very low.
21. Hot Chocolate
Which brings me to one of the things we love most about the winter. Cozy, hot drinks. With a little sugar, of course.
22. Healthy Snacks
Next, a few healthy dry snacks can make your day when your general supply is low! Try out one of these:
Confession:Fantastic coffee uplifts me in a way other things can not. Maybe it’s the warm cup. Or the jolt of caffeine. Or I just like mornings.Who knows?
But a package of that fancy coffee you LOVE or even a five-dollar gift card can be a gigantic mood booster.
24. Alcohol
Funny enough, Vodka was the first item in my friend’s self care kit! Ha!
Really though, a small nightcap can take the edge off after a long day. (Just don’t let it turn into an unhealthy habit!)
So, perhaps it’s that coveted bottle of red wine you don’t buy often, or ingredients to a new cocktail you know you’d love to try when the time is right. Make it special and it will be the perfect addition to your kit.
If you are the type that loves this idea, but would better appreciate it put together for you, check out these self care box subscription ideas. You get unique wellness items sent to you monthly!
So, all the benefit, and none of the work.
TheraBox Self Care Subscription Box
Therabox is a special set in that a therapist picks out the self-care contents. So, professionals are giving you what you need each month!
Additionally, there’s a happiness activity in every box, which builds your self-love and self-esteem.
HopeBox – Care for Your Body, Heart, & Soul
The Hopeboxis packed with unique artisanal items that boost coziness and well, hope. Which is essential to rebuild in any tough season.
To Consider With Your Self Care Kit
“To be a good parent, you need to take care of yourself so that you have the physical and emotional energy to take care of your family.
MICHELLE OBAMA
A self care kit can help you do that. As well as having the emotional energy to conquer your other marvelous life goals and dreams.
And finally, these make fantastic self care gift basket ideas for moms, friends, and teachers as well. 2023 will bring its ups and downs, so don’t be afraid to spread a little love with any of these!
