Self-care: The practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s own wellbeing and happiness, in particular during periods of stress. Self-care is definitely having a moment right now, whether that’s because of internet memes or an actual movement to better ourselves, the real definition of self-care can get a little murky. According to some Urban Dictionary entries, self-care is “an umbrella term that millennials use to excuse their poor financial decisions,” and “putting absurd amounts of parmesan cheese on your spaghetti.” It may not mean either of these things to you, but in general, it’s defined as basically anything good for you that helps you live your best life—and living your best life may look different than you’d think.

Binging A Show

Self-care can often be associated with things you do, which can turn into an action-based practice. Sometimes doing nothing, like laying on the couch, is actually the best thing you can do for yourself.

Canceling Plans

Saying ‘no’ can be the best form of self-care. Obviously, don’t turn this into a habit, but listen to your mind and body when they’re telling you they can’t hang. It can be so freeing to let yourself have some alone time.

Not Going to Your Workout Class

I know yoga or going for a run are active self-care activities, but it can also be good to choose to not be active without any attached guilt or feeling bad about yourself.

Getting That Fast Food

Obviously not something you want to do on the daily, but treating yourself to something “unhealthy” can be a good reminder to release control. A few french fries count as self-care to me!

Sleeping In

I can feel anxious when I sleep in and feel worried about wasting my day or not being productive, but getting rest is definitely self-care, so an occasional late sleep is totally acceptable.

Be sure to also check out My First Time Experiencing Burnout And How I’m Getting Through It, and How To Take A Solo Trip To LA!