How to Build a Self-Care Box

When mental health declines, we’re in an emotional slump, or things just keep going wrong, we are not always focusing on self-care. Thinking ahead and being proactive in wellness is key. That’s why I want to help you get started on your self-care box.

A self-care box is a container—usually a box but could be a basket, tote, or bag—that is filled with items to promote self-care when it’s hard to do. There are vast arrays of items that can be included and whatever you come up with is meant to be uniquely suited to you.

Let’s look at what might go inside a self-care box.

Paper—This paper isn’t blank. The paper in your box should include uplifting notes from yourself and others, inspiring quotes, and reminders of the positive in your life. It’s easy to focus on the negative when life gets hard and these reminders can be just the thing to bring awareness to the good in life and you. Be sure to utilize your positive days when you can appreciate yourself and/or the world, and write it in a note for future you to find comfort in.

Something soft—Soft is soothing. Include a soft, soothing object that fits you. Need something to squeeze? Go with a stuffed animal or pillow. Want to wrap up in warmth? Include a blanket or special set of PJs. Fuzzy slippers may be just right for you.

Smell good stuff—Candles or incense (if you’re safe around fire), essential oils, bath bombs, soaps, scented waxes for warmers, lotion…items that provide a soothing-scented atmosphere and engage you in self-care. Whether these items prompt you to relax, meditate, or take a bath, connect the smells to wellness.

Audio items—If you still have CDs, include one or more of them in your box that you know will reduce your stress and improve your mood. If not, make a list self-care playlist and write a reminder to listen to it. Not into music? Try nature sounds.

Spiritual supports—If you are spiritual in any way, you likely find peace in a spiritual word or practice. Include the written word of your religion, healing crystals, meditation guides, a smudge stick, religious symbols or artifacts (like a rosary, for example), or cleansing spells.

Snacks—Non-perishable, long lasting items like tea, dry soup mix, and chocolate are some option. The intent is not to increase stress eating but, rather, provide yourself with a treat that lifts your mood and calms you down.

Interest items—Think - something you enjoy that inspires you, incites positive feelings, or just makes you smile. Maybe you’ll stash a comic from your favorite series, add some decorations from your favorite season or holiday, include glitter and other pretty things…the list goes on.

Sensory items—Grab a stress ball, make slime, fiddle with a fidget cube—if you put them in your box, you can do any of these and more. Sensory items don’t just appeal to touch as the aforementioned do, they can be visual or auditory, too. The snacks should take care of taste!

Safety network—Include a list of people and numbers you can call or go see for support. This can include friends, family, local crisis hotlines, national crisis hotlines, a therapist, and local ER. You may even want to put them in order of who you’ll want to start with first.

Now go find your box! How big or small it needs to be depends on what you intend to put in it and how much. Keep it simple or decorate it. Make it large and full or make it small and reserved. However you decide to make it, it should be suited to work for you.

What’s one self-care item that’s a must have in your self-care box? Share in the comments below, interact with me on Instagram, or re-tweet on Twitter with your answer!

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