What’s in My Self-Care Kit?

Self-care is personal, flexible, and just plain essential, especially if you’re managing chronic illness, neurodivergence, or just the stress of everyday life. That’s why I’m sharing this look into my self-care kit! Whether you’re building your own or just looking for inspiration, I hope this can be helpful.

I keep these tools in a fabric bin for easy access. While I use other items for self-care, too, this is my go-to collection.

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Warmth & Comfort

Warmth is one of the most soothing ways to ground myself when I’m stressed or flaring—but there are times that call for cooling off, too! My kit has a few different comfort items in this area.

Warming Eye Masks

I keep a mix of instant and microwaveable eye masks in my bin. The instant ones are perfect for those quick moments when I need immediate relief, while the microwaveable ones are like a hug for the eyes. I have some that are scented with lavender or mint for added relaxation, but I also keep unscented options for when scents are too much. I also keep a few cooling patches, which are lifesavers for migraine attacks, syncope, and hot days.

Spa Gloves and Socks

For a quick at-home spa treatment, I reach my spa gloves and socks. I’ll pair them with a favorite lotion to help lock in moisture overnight for a bit of luxury and happier, softer skin. They’re perfect for dedicated cozy self-care evenings.

Mini Squishmallow

No self-care kit is complete without something a little whimsical! A mini Squishmallow clip is a comforting buddy that’s sure to make me smile.

Writing & Reflection

Journaling is one of the most self-care practices for a reason! My bin holds a variety of journals to match my mood or purpose in that moment. What can I say? I’m a notebook gal.

Basic Diary

Sometimes, I just need to vent or let my thoughts flow freely. Even though most of my entries start with “It’s been a while…” my diary is still a safe space for me to pour out whatever is on my mind.

Prompt Journal

When I feel stuck or unsure of where to start, the journal where I specifically use prompts is my go-to. The prompts offer a bit of gentle guidance to help me explore my emotions or spark creativity. Most of mine come from JoClub!

Shadow Work Journal

For deeper (and often darker) introspection, my shadow work journal is key. It’s not always easy to dive into those uncomfortable feelings, but this practice has been incredibly rewarding for my spiritual growth and healing from PTSD.

Dream Journal

When I remember to do so, I love recording and interpreting my dreams! Having a dedicated dream journal makes it easy to capture those fleeting moments before they fade.

Manifestation Journal

My manifestation journal is where I set intentions and visualize, you guessed it, my ideal life. It’s a great tool to help me focus on my goals and keep a more positive mindset (not to be confused with toxic positivity). Right now, I’m working on a fresh 300 list!

Gratitude Journal

Gratitude journaling seems almost too simple but it really can shift your perspective and boost your mood. I keep one of our gratitude journals close to reflect on whatever it is I’m thankful for most.

Self-Care Journal

Our self-care journal offers a dedicated space to reflect on any wellness journey! This one helps me stay connected to my self and prioritize my well-being in a way that feels supportive.

Basic Stationery

Of course, I need some pens and pencils to make the most of these! I also have a little travel kit with a mini stapler, tape, and scissors—you never know when they might come in handy!

Mental Stimulation

When I need to unwind or distract myself, my self-care kit offers a few different options to keep my hands and brain busy.

Sudoku Book

A classic puzzle! My Sudoku book is the perfect way to engage my mind without overwhelming it. I find it has a similar impact as the Tetris effect for trauma, so I often reach for this one (or a Sudoku app) if PTSD symptoms are keeping me from sleep.

Fidgets and Stress Ball

These tools are seriously lifesavers during anxious moments or restless times. I keep a few fidgets and a stress ball in my kit to help me stay grounded and calm.

How I Use My Self-Care Kit

The ways I use my self-care kit are as varied as the items in it! If I might reach for a Squishmallow for some comfort. In the evenings, I’ll use a warming eye mask, spa gloves, and a journal to wind down and reflect. No matter the situation, this is a little way to help!

Expanding Your Self-Care Kit

Your self-care kit should be as unique as you are! If you’re building one or looking for even more ideas, here are a few suggestions:

Calming Drinks

Consider including a few tea sachets or packets of your favorite drink mix. A warm cup of tea or a refreshing electrolyte drinks can be so soothing! I have a dedicated tea cart in my room already, so I don’t add this one to my kit too.

Skincare

Items like sheet masks, lip balm, or a favorite hand cream can be wonderful additions! These are quick and easy ways to nurture yourself and indulge a little.

Read more: My Skincare Routine

Mindfulness Tools

Affirmations, sensory coping tools, or other mindfulness tools can add variety to your self-care kit and encourage moments of quiet and reflection.

Entertainment

A favorite novel, audiobook, or podcast can all be great way to escape into something you love when the rest of the world is too much.

Sensory Comfort

Adding other sensory tools can create a calming and grounding experience. A weighted blanket or lap pad is perfect for providing a comforting sense of pressure while a heating pad can soothe tense muscles.

Creative Outlets

Creative activities offer a chance to unwind and tap into your artistic side! A coloring book can provide a meditative outlet, as can sketchbooks and pencils, knitting, embroidery, or other crafts.

Physical Care

Physical self-care is just as important as mental and emotional care. Epsom salts are great for relaxing bath, for instance, and massage tools, face rollers, or gua sha tools can bring targeted relief and luxury in the same breath.

Having Multiple Self-Care Kits

Different situations call for different self-care tools! You might it helpful to create some auxillary kits for specific spaces or situations.

On-the-Go Self-Care Kit

A compact version of your kit is perfect for busy days or traveling. Include small fidget toys, a small lotion, a cooling patch, and a mini notebook to keep it lightweight and portable. If you carry a tote bag, backpack, or other large bag, you have a bit more room to work with.

These large canvas pouches from Miss A are perfect for an on-the-go self-care kit!

Workspace Self-Care Kit

A desk-friendly (or bed-friendly, for my fellow chronic illness folks) kit can help you stay calm and focused during the workdays. This might include a fidget, a favorite pen and notebook, and a small bottle of water or tea bags.

Car Self-Care Kit

If you drive, a car-friendly kit can make your commute or road trips more comfortable. Include mints, a travel-sized lavender spray, a playlist of your favorite songs, or even a lumbar cushion for extra support.

Bedside Self-Care Kit

A bedside kit can focus on rest and relaxation! Consider adding a warming eye mask, a journal, spa gloves, and a small Squishmallow or other plush. I keep my main kit at my bed, so that list might look familiar!

What’s in your self-care kit? Whether it’s a favorite tea, a playlist, or a book you love to reread, I’d love to hear what brings you comfort in the comments.