The Ultimate Saturday Self-Care Boost: Because You Deserve It!
Published by Barbara Ratti in take care of yourself · Saturday 28 Sep 2024
Tags: saturday, self, care, nourishing, breakfast, relaxation, wellness, home, retreat
Tags: saturday, self, care, nourishing, breakfast, relaxation, wellness, home, retreat
The Ultimate Saturday Self-Care Boost: Because You Deserve It!
Ah, Saturday.
The sweet, glorious day when your alarm clock gets the day off and you can finally focus on what truly matters — you!
If your week was anything like mine (read: chaotic, exhausting, and requiring a GPS just to find your sanity), then you deserve a serious self-care reboot.
I'm about to share the ultimate Saturday self-care plan that's saved my sanity more than once. Let's turn your weekend into a mini-spa retreat designed to make you feel pampered, refreshed, and ready to take on whatever next week throws at you.
So grab your coziest blanket, let your phone sleep in, and dive in!
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Morning Mindfulness & Stretch – Start Slow (9:00 AM – 10:00 AM)
Listen, I get it. Your instinct is to wake up and immediately scroll through Instagram to check what everyone else is doing. But today? Nah, we're going Zen.
For the first hour of your Saturday, let's go all-out peacefully with a bit of mindfulness and stretching.
I like to do a few deep breaths. A few simple stretches make me feel like I’m actually taking care of my body, especially when my shoulders feel like they’ve been permanently glued to my ears from stress.
Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and breathe. That's it. Don't even think about your to-do list or what your anxious colleague from work said yesterday (ugh,).
After a few minutes of this peaceful bliss, stretch out that body!
Do some stretch exercises or touch your toes and call it a win. Baby steps.
Pro Tip: If your cat thinks this is a game and decides to sit on your lap mid-stretch—go with it. Extra mindfulness points for not panicking.
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Nourishing Breakfast – Because Coffee Isn't Enough (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
Nothing says "self-care" like a breakfast that makes you feel like you have your life together (even if you only have it together for the 30 minutes you're eating it).
Personally, I love starting the weekend with a cappuccino and a smoothie bowl loaded with fresh fruit, nuts, and granola.
Yes, it's the kind of thing that makes me feel like a fancy Instagram influencer, but let's be honest—it's really just a delicious excuse to eat fruit disguised as dessert.
Not into smoothie bowls?
No worries, I've got alternatives for you! If you're a carb lover like me on certain Saturdays, try avocado toast with a poached egg and chilli flakes for a bit of spice and protein.
Or, if you're feeling indulgent, how about fluffy pancakes with a drizzle of maple syrup and fresh berries?
And for my savoury breakfast fans, a veggie-packed omelette with spinach, mushrooms, and feta is a perfect, energizing start. Bonus points for making extra and calling it "brunch."
What I’ve learned is that taking just 10 minutes to make something nourishing does wonders for my mood.
There’s something about knowing you’re feeding your body right that makes everything else in life feel a little more manageable.
The key is to enjoy every bite, knowing that you're nourishing both your body and your soul.
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Unplug and Do Something Fun (11:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Okay, no phones for this part. No emails. No social media. Just you and a hobby.
Remember hobbies? That thing you loved before life got busy? Whether reading, journaling, or finally learning to knit that scarf you've been talking about for months, this is your time.
I recently dusted off an old book I’ve been meaning to read for months (okay, more like a year), and wow, it felt like reconnecting with an old friend.
If you’re into journaling, this is the perfect time to jot down thoughts from the week, or simply write about what’s making you happy.
Feel free to get creative. Paint something! Bake something! Heck, organize your closet if that's what brings you joy (I salute you, organizing wizards).
The point is to get lost in something that makes you feel good—even if it's just doodling stick figures.
Optional: And if you’re a nature lover, a walk in the park can be just what you need. I’ll admit, the last time I went, I may have spent more time chatting with squirrels than actually walking, but hey—self-care is all about what feels good in the moment.
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Pamper Yourself Silly (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM)
Okay, so maybe you're not in the mood for a bath, and that's totally cool. We're bringing the spa to you in another way!
Start with a luxurious DIY facial—cleanse your skin, apply a gentle exfoliant, and follow up with a hydrating face mask (or just slap on a sheet mask and call it a day).
After your shower, don’t rush. Take your time applying lotion or body oil and give yourself a mini massage.
Seriously, your skin will thank you. Even your elbows will feel like they just came back from vacation.
While your mask is doing its thing, give yourself a mini mani-piedi! Start with a soothing hand and foot scrub, and then trim, file, and paint your nails.
Even if you're not a pro at it, the process is surprisingly relaxing—and hey, any colour you choose is the right colour.
Want more? You could also give your hair a little cuddle with a deep conditioning treatment. Put on a hair mask or some nourishing oil, then wrap it up in a towel and let it soak in all the goodness.
Bonus points for deep conditioning your hair while listening to a podcast that makes you laugh out loud. Because why not nourish your soul and your hair at the same time?
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Indulgent Afternoon Treat – You've Earned This (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
Okay, it’s time for my favorite part of the day—treat time (As if the whole day hasn't been a treat already!!!)
But now's your chance to indulge your sweet tooth or that craving for something comforting. Whether it’s freshly baked cookies, a slice of banana bread, or just a bar of dark chocolate, this is when I really slow down and savor the moment.
And here's the trick. Make this a mindful eating moment.
Before I take that first bite, I stop and admire how delicious it looks (yes, it’s cheesy, but it works!). Then I breathe in the smell, letting it take over my senses. And when I finally take a bite, I focus on the textures, the sweetness, and how it makes me feel.
It’s like turning a simple snack into a mini celebration of taste.
Your turn: take a deep breath and really notice the treat in front of you. What does it smell like? How does it look?
When you take that first bite, savor the textures and flavors. Let the richness of the chocolate or the warmth of the banana bread linger a little longer than usual. This is your moment to be fully present and enjoy the simple pleasure of a delicious treat.
No rushing, no multitasking—just you and your treat. Imagine the sweetness spreading joy to every part of your body.
Pay attention to how it makes you feel—nourished, comforted, and completely in the moment.
Pro Tip: You'll enjoy your snack even more when you're not mindlessly munching while scrolling on your phone.
Give yourself the space to really appreciate it.
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Chill Out with a Feel-Good Movie (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
There's something magical about wrapping yourself in a blanket and putting on a feel-good movie on a Saturday afternoon.
Whether it's a rom-com or a lighthearted series, the only requirement is that it makes you smile. No drama allowed.
Last weekend, I re-watched a movie I loved as a kid, and for 90 minutes, I felt pure, nostalgic joy. It's the kind of thing that makes you forget about the laundry and emails waiting for you.
If you're feeling extra cozy, throw on a face mask or keep your nails drying while you watch—total spa vibes, right from your couch.
Here are a few feel-good movie genres to fit any mood:
- Romantic Comedies: There's just something comforting about predictable love stories with a happy ending, right?
- Animated Films: If you want to channel your inner child, throw on something animated like. These movies have a magical way of making you feel lighthearted and happy.
- Musicals: In the mood for a singalong? You will have you humming (or full-on belting) your way through the afternoon.
- Lighthearted Adventures: If you're not into love stories or singing, a fun adventure flick is perfect for some lighthearted laughs without any stress.
- Comforting Classics: If nostalgia is what you need, cosy up with a classic. There's something about these timeless movies that makes you feel like everything's right in the world.
Whatever you choose, make sure it's something that makes you feel good, because that's what this day is all about.
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Light Evening Movement (6:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
By now, you're probably feeling wonderfully relaxed. But if you're up for it, let's squeeze in some light movement.
Whether it's a slow evening walk or a dance session, the goal is to move your body without breaking a sweat.
I recently tried a sunset walk, and even though I’m not usually one to romanticize sunsets, I’ll admit—there’s something peaceful about watching the sky change colors while everything else slows down around you.
It’s a nice way to cap off your day before heading into evening mode.
Think of this as the cherry on top of your self-care sundae.
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Cozy Dinner and Reflect (7:00 PM – 8:30 PM)
Ah, dinner time. After a day of pampering, I like to keep it simple with something nourishing yet cozy. A hearty salad, some roasted veggies, or a comforting bowl of soup. And if pasta happens to sneak its way into your evening plans, who am I to stop it?
And while you’re eating, why not take a moment to reflect?
I like to think about what went well during the day—those small moments that made me smile. It’s like a little gratitude practice, which feels extra nice after such a restful day.
Your turn: What felt good? What made you smile? Jot down a few thoughts or simply enjoy the peaceful feeling of a well-spent day.
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Wind Down and Get Cozy (9:00 PM – 10:30 PM)
Now it's time to unwind and give yourself that final bit of love before bed.
Dim the lights, light some candles, and put on your favorite pajamas. (you know the ones). Do a little skincare routine, cleanse, moisturize, and maybe try a jade roller if you’re feeling fancy.
Then, cozy up in bed with a book or some calming music. Avoid screens if you can (yes, even TikTok).
Let yourself slowly drift into a peaceful, well-deserved sleep.
Lately, I’ve been enjoying some calming music or reading a few pages of a book I’ve been meaning to finish.
This little routine has become one of my favorite parts of the day.
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Sleep Like a Baby (10:30 PM and Beyond)
You did it! You spent a whole day taking care of yourself, and now it's time to sleep like the carefree human you are.
Make sure to get those 7-8 hours of solid, undisturbed sleep. You've earned it!
After all, you’ve spent the entire day nurturing your mind, body, and soul. So tuck yourself in, drift off, and let those sweet dreams carry you into a new week.
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Reflect and Set Intentions: Carrying Self-Care Beyond Saturdays
Now that you've spent a rejuvenating Saturday indulging in self-care let's take a moment to reflect on the experience.
How did each activity make you feel? Were there moments that particularly resonated with you? Jot down your thoughts in a journal or just take a few minutes to contemplate them.
While I often emphasize the importance of Micromoments of Self-care in our busy lives, it’s crucial to recognize that sometimes we need longer periods—or even a full day—to care for ourselves deeply.
These extended self-care sessions recharge us on a profound level and help us live better, not just for ourselves but for those around us.
Once you've reflected, it's time to set some intentions. Ask yourself:
- How can I incorporate one self-care practice into my daily routine?
- What's one small change I can make this week to prioritize my well-being?
- How can I remind myself to pause and breathe, even on the busiest days?
Maybe you'll dedicate 10 minutes each morning to mindfulness or set aside one evening a week for a cosy movie night—whatever feels right for you.
Carrying this self-care mindset into your everyday life doesn't mean overhauling your schedule; it's about finding pockets of joy and moments to nurture yourself. After all, self-care is not just a Saturday activity; it's a way of life. Embrace it, and let that positive energy ripple through your week!
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Conclusion
Saturdays are meant for self-care, and you deserve all the relaxation and pampering in the world. So take this day and turn it into your personal wellness retreat. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you.
Plus, by the time Monday rolls around, you’ll be ready to face whatever the week throws your way, anxious colleague included!!
Go ahead and block off next Saturday, too. You’ve just found your new weekend ritual.
Enjoy your Saturday!!
