Typically, when we think of self-care, bubble baths and face masks come to mind. But is there more to these practices of wellness? Of course, filling up the tub or painting on a mud mask can alleviate negative feelings; but these actions are often temporary fixes. Self-care and healing are not always easy practices to implement within our lives. They can take a lot of emotional and physical labor out of us. But self-care is incredibly important, especially in our current times.

For me, writing has always had a healing aura to it. Often, I would write about something I didn’t realize was even on my mind. Writing has, for many instances, shown me what I am feeling. While I typically sit with my journal, grab my favorite pen, and write whatever comes to mind, prompts can force me to dig deeper. Having to sit with a question and think about my surroundings, emotions, or relationships has made me recognize feelings or process events I would usually look past.

Self-care is pretty ambiguous. It means something different to everyone. A lot of the time for me, self-care is getting in my pajamas and binge-watching a new Netflix series. Other times, self-care means sitting with my sadness and writing about it. Neither practice is wrong, but both are essential in prioritizing my overall well-being.

Here are some journal prompts to get you started on your self-care practice!

1. What’s on your mind right now?
2. What is one good thing that has happened to you today?
3. What do you need to hear today? Can you make your own mantra of this?
4. Who are you thankful for? How can you show them today that you care?
5. If you are feeling stressed: focus on your senses. Write down one thing you can see, hear, touch, taste, and feel.

6. Are you holding on to anything? If so, can you let it go?
7. Write down something you are proud of yourself for achieving.
8. Think of the people that love you. How can you share your feelings with them?
9. How do you ask for help when you need it?
10. Think of a time when you felt most at peace. Write about it.

11. What do you need to start saying “yes” to?
12. Write down five things you love and respect about yourself.
13. Write down an intention for the week.
14. What would your ideal day look like?
15. Pause! Take a deep breath.

16. Write about one thing you learned today.
17. How can you make more time for things or people you love?
18. What does self-love mean to you?
19. How do you recharge?
20. Write a letter addressed to yourself for when you are struggling. What do you want yourself to remember?