Dear Self, Breathe.

There was a time when I didn’t even know what self-care really meant. I thought it was just face masks and bubble baths. But after everything I went through—the heartbreak, the confusion, the rebuilding—I learned that self-care is about so much more than that.

It’s about coming home to yourself.
It’s about showing up even on the hard days.
And yes, sometimes it is about creating little rituals that help you feel held.

During my healing period, self-care became my anchor. It was never perfect. Some days it meant lying on the floor listening to music, other days it meant writing out everything I didn’t have the courage to say out loud. But having a few comforting tools around me made it easier to stay consistent and intentional. These are the things that helped me slow down, reflect, and gently rebuild:

1. Journaling & Planning Tools

Writing has always been my way of making sense of the noise in my head. Journaling felt like a quiet conversation with myself—no pressure, no judgement.

I started using a guided journal and planner that helped me track small wins, write down my thoughts, and set gentle goals. It became my safe space.

2. Skincare for Mindful Moments

Skincare became a little love note to myself at the end of each day. It wasn’t about the result—it was the process.
I created a soft nighttime routine using a simple, but effective products like PanOxyl’s Cleansing Gel and snail mucin & seaweed extract gel (for acne & acne scars) that made me feel like I was caring for myself, even on days I didn’t feel very lovable.

3. Herbal Teas & Supplements for Relaxation

Something about wrapping my hands around a warm cup of tea made everything feel a bit softer. It became a ritual of slowing down.

I started ending my days with chamomile calming tea. I even started buying chamomile and making the tea myself, but if you don’t have the energy for that, pre-made one is good, too. Small steps, big comfort.

4. Cozy Loungewear & Weighted Blankets

When emotions felt heavy, I leaned into the softness of physical comfort. I have this one cozy loungewear set and a weighted blanket that honestly feels like a hug.
They helped me feel safe, especially during those evenings when the silence was loud.

5. Meditation & Sleep Aids

Sleep was hard for a while. My mind wouldn’t stop replaying conversations, memories, or things I wish I had said.
Using a calming sleep mist or diffuser gave me space to rest. I also started doing short meditations, just 5–10 minutes, and they made a huge difference.

Self-care isn’t about perfection or routines that look good online. It’s about learning what you need, and giving yourself that, over and over again.
It’s about creating space where you can breathe, feel, and grow—at your own pace.

So if you’re in your healing season, I hope some of these tools help you the way they helped me.
Because you deserve to feel safe, loved, and cared for—starting with you.

What are the little things that make you feel held and cared for on your hardest days? 💭💛