28 Self Care Ideas For Women in their 60s
Hey there, fabulous ladies!
You know what’s awesome about getting older?
We start understanding what truly matters in life. It’s about enjoying the moments, embracing our perfectly imperfect selves, and knowing that we seriously deserve to feel our best – inside and out.
Self-care isn’t all about bubble baths and scented candles (although let’s be real, those can be pretty damn wonderful). It’s about nurturing your mind, body, and spirit so you can rock this next chapter of life with confidence and a whole lot of joy.
Whether you’re a seasoned expert at prioritizing yourself or you’re just figuring this whole self-care thing out, I’ve got a whole bunch of ideas here for you.
Some are little treats, others are about creating routines that really make a difference.
It’s about finding YOUR happy balance.
So, get yourself a comfy cup of something delicious, and let’s dive into some awesome self care ideas for women to rock their fabulous 60s!
For Physical Well-Being
Stay Active for At least Some Time Of The Day
Staying active as you get older is one of the best things you can do for yourself.
You don’t have to become a gym rat or sign up for a marathon – it’s more about finding ways to move your body that feel good and that you’ll stick with.
Think about activities you’ve always enjoyed or maybe something new you’re curious about. Maybe it’s a daily walk with a friend where you get in some exercise
Eat The Right Foods
You know the saying “you are what you eat”?
Well, it’s definitely got some truth to it!
What you put in your body makes a huge difference to how you feel.
As we age, it’s even more important to ditch those overly processed snacks and reach for lots of colorful fruits and veggies, some good protein, and whole grains.
Focusing on these sorts of foods doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the occasional treat, but think of your everyday staples as the fuel that keeps you feeling good and energized.
If you aren’t big on cooking, try to find some simple and delicious recipes that you can master – the less fuss in the kitchen, the better, right?
Sip More Water
Staying hydrated may not sound super exciting, but trust me, it makes a world of difference!
Sometimes when we’re feeling a bit run down or find it hard to focus, the answer might be as simple as needing a tall glass of water.
It sounds easy enough, but it’s something many of us forget to do. If you find plain water a bit boring, try adding in a few slices of citrus fruit or even some cucumber or mint.
Buying a fun water bottle you enjoy using can also help remind you to sip throughout the day.
Good Sleep is Of Utmost Importance
Getting good quality sleep is honestly one of the best forms of self-care there is.
When you’re well-rested, everything seems a little…well, easier.
But sometimes as we get older, those blissful 8 hours might get a little more elusive. To help, try to wind down properly before bed – that means putting away the phone and switching off the TV at least an hour before it’s time to sleep.
Create a relaxing routine – maybe take a warm bath, read a calming book, or do some gentle stretches.
Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and a comfy temperature. It might require a bit of tweaking to find what helps you drift off the best!
Get a Checkup Done Regularly
Okay, this one might not exactly be fun, but keeping tabs on your health is super important.
Make sure you’re going for your regular checkups with your doctor and scheduling any specific checkups needed based on your own health history and any family risk factors.
Sometimes, catching things early makes a huge difference!
And don’t hesitate to ask any questions or bring up anything that might be bothering you, even if it seems small.
Your healthcare provider is there to help you feel your best.
Manage Stress
Let’s be real, life can be stressful!
Finding ways to manage that stress is key to keeping yourself happy and healthy. Everyone handles stress a bit differently, so it’s about finding what works for you.
Could be deep breathing exercises, which you can do anywhere and they really help if you find yourself overwhelmed. Maybe a quiet walk in nature does the trick for you.
Meditation is another great option, and there are lots of guided meditations online specifically for managing stress.
And hey, yoga combines a bit of exercise with stress-reducing mindfulness – that’s a win-win!
Listen to Your Body
As we age and gain wisdom, one of the smartest skills is truly learning to listen to our bodies.
If you’re feeling a little worn out, your body is probably telling you it’s time to slow down and take a break. Maybe that odd twinge in your knee is a sign that you pushed a little too hard during that walk and need a rest day.
Sometimes ignoring those signals can lead to needing longer recovery times! Honoring what your body is telling you goes a long way in helping you stay healthy and feeling your best.
Protect Your Skin
Taking care of our skin becomes even more important as we get older.
Making sure you use a good sunscreen every time you step outside, even on cloudy days, will help a lot with keeping your skin healthy. It protects you from sun damage and can minimize those stubborn wrinkles!
Don’t forget to wear a hat and try to limit those super long sessions in the sun. Your future self will thank you for looking after your skin now.
Take Care Of Your Teeth
Our teeth have worked hard for us over the years, and it’s super important to keep up a good dental care routine. That means regular checkups with your dentist, brushing twice a day, and flossing like a champ!
It might not be the most glamorous self-care activity, but think of it like an investment in your smile.
Keeping your teeth and gums in tip-top shape means avoiding trouble down the line and a healthier, happier you!
Pamper Yourself
We all deserve a little pampering every now and then. This doesn’t have to be anything fancy or expensive. Think of what makes you feel good and relaxed.
It could be a soothing bubble bath with some candles and soft music or a DIY facial with some nice products.
Maybe a manicure or a massage – if it’s within your budget, why not treat yourself?
Taking some time to indulge in a bit of self-care can do wonders for your mood and remind you that you deserve to feel great.
For Mental & Emotional Well-Being
Nurture Able Relationships
Staying connected with people who make us feel loved and supported is so important for our well-being. Make quality time for the folks you cherish, whether it’s your partner, your children, close friends, or a beloved community group.
Schedule coffee dates, fun outings, or just a cozy evening at home chatting about life.
These connections nourish our souls, and as we age, they truly become some of our most valuable treasures. And hey, if you’re looking to expand your social circle, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!
Learn New Things
Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?
Keeping our brains active and engaged is a fantastic way to stay sharp and excited about life. It could be anything that piques your interest!
Maybe sign up for that language class you always wanted to take, learn how to play an instrument, or join a gardening club. You might discover a hidden talent or a passion you didn’t even know you had. The joy is in the journey, and the bonus is keeping your mind nimble!
Volunteer As Much As You Can
Giving back to your community is not only an amazing way to help others, but it can also be deeply fulfilling for yourself.
Find a cause you’re passionate about and look for opportunities to volunteer your time or skills. It could be helping at your local animal shelter, serving meals at a soup kitchen, reading to children at the library, or mentoring someone getting started in your field.
Sharing your energy with others creates a beautiful ripple effect and reminds you just how much you have to offer the world.
Embrace Mindfulness
Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment.
It sounds simple, but our minds are often racing a million miles an hour. Try taking some time each day to simply focus on your breath and how your body feels. A few minutes of meditation can make a massive difference in reducing stress and creating a sense of calm.
You can also practice mindfulness during everyday activities like going for a walk and truly noticing the sights and sounds around you.
Think of it as a way to hit the reset button on your mind and find a little more peace each day.
If you Haven’t Learned to say NO, Do It Now
This might be a tough one, but it’s incredibly empowering!
Sometimes we feel obligated to say “yes” even when we really don’t have the capacity or desire to do something.
Learning to politely decline invitations or requests that don’t serve you is an important part of self-care. It’s about setting boundaries and respecting your own time and energy.
Don’t feel guilty about saying “no” – it allows you to say “yes” to things that truly matter to you!
Reflect and Appreciate
Practicing gratitude is a game-changer!
Instead of focusing on what might be lacking, take time to appreciate the good things in your life. It could be as simple as jotting down three things you’re grateful for each day, whether it’s your health, a beautiful sunset, or a supportive friend.
You could even write a heartfelt letter to someone who has made a positive impact in your life.
Regularly reflecting on the good stuff nourishes the soul and puts your whole outlook on a brighter path.
Express Yourself
Finding creative outlets for self-expression is fantastic for our mental and emotional well-being.
It allows you to channel your energy, process emotions, and just have some fun! You don’t need to be the next Picasso to benefit from it.
Explore things that sound interesting to you – maybe it’s drawing, painting, writing in a journal, playing music, singing (it doesn’t have to be “good”!), or even trying out a fun new dance class.
The point is to find something that allows you to express yourself freely and gives your spirit a boost.
Laugh More
They say laughter is the best medicine, and it’s true! Make a point of finding things that make you laugh every day.
Whether it’s watching your favorite sitcom, catching up with a friend who always cracks you up, or finding silly animal videos online – make some space for those belly laughs.
Laughter relieves stress, lightens your mood, and just makes everything in life feel a little less serious.
Don’t Hesitate to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes life throws us curveballs that are too much to handle on our own, and there’s zero shame in that!
If you’re struggling with your mental health, whether it’s anxiety, depression, grief, or something else, please know there’s qualified and caring help available.
Reaching out to a therapist or counselor can be incredibly helpful in getting you the right tools and support to cope and thrive.
Think of them as experts in mental wellness, there to guide you through tough times and help you feel your best. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, so don’t hesitate to prioritize it.
For Social & Spiritual Well-Being
Join Social Groups with Similar Interests
Building community and social connection is especially important as we get older.
Seek out groups or clubs centered around hobbies, interests, or shared experiences. Whether it’s a book club at the library, a knitting circle, a faith-based group, or an exercise class, connecting with like-minded people fosters a sense of belonging and offers opportunities for friendship and support.
These shared experiences create wonderful memories and keep life feeling interesting and vibrant.
Travel as Much as you Can
If you have the opportunity, traveling is a phenomenal form of self-care. It doesn’t have to be a big, international trip either!
Exploring new places, even close to home, offers a change of pace, stimulates your mind, and creates lasting memories. Maybe it’s that town you’ve always wanted to visit or a weekend getaway to the beach.
Traveling breaks us out of our usual routines and exposes us to new cultures, experiences, and perspectives – all of which can add so much richness and joy to our lives.
Heal in Nature
There’s something incredibly calming and rejuvenating about spending time outdoors.
Whether it’s a walk through a park, sitting by a peaceful lake, or a hike in the woods, connect with nature as often as possible. Notice the trees, the birdsong, the feel of the sun on your skin.
Being in nature reduces stress, improves mood, and simply makes you feel more grounded. It’s a beautiful reminder of the world’s vastness and a great way to take a breather from daily life.
Let Go of Perfection
Perfectionism can be a major source of stress and prevent us from enjoying life to the fullest.
Give yourself permission to make mistakes, to have days where things don’t go as planned, and to not always get it “right.” It’s okay for your house to be a little messy sometimes or to stumble over your words occasionally.
Focus on progress, not perfection!
Being kind to yourself is essential, and it allows you to relax and truly experience the joy in the journey, not just the destination.
Forgive Freely
Holding on to anger, resentment, or bitterness is like carrying a heavy weight around.
While it can be difficult, learning to forgive— both others and yourself—is vital for your own peace and wellbeing.
Forgiveness doesn’t mean excusing bad behavior or forgetting something hurtful. It’s about choosing to release the negative emotions that hold you back and make space for healing.
It’s a truly powerful form of self-care because it allows you to let go of things that no longer serve you.
Find a Sense of Purpose
Having a sense of purpose brings meaning and direction to your life.
It could be devoting time and energy to your family, volunteering for a cause close to your heart, pursuing a lifelong passion project, or mentoring others in your field.
Finding activities that give you a sense of fulfillment and allow you to contribute in a positive way increases happiness and gives your days a greater sense of significance.
Cultivate Spirituality
For many, spirituality offers a sense of connection to something bigger than ourselves and a source of comfort and guidance.
Whether it’s traditional religious practices, mindfulness, practicing meditation, or simply spending time in nature, focus on nurturing your spiritual side.
This can involve exploring different spiritual paths, connecting with a faith community, or finding practices that help you feel a deeper sense of peace and understanding.
Embrace Aging
In a youth-obsessed culture, it can be easy to view aging through a negative lens.
However, embracing the process and the wisdom that comes along with it is incredibly empowering.
Focus on what you’ve gained over the years – experience, resilience, and a deeper understanding of yourself and the world. Celebrate the beauty in each new phase of life and all the unique possibilities they hold.
Finally, Love Yourself
This is probably the most important self-care tip of all!
Practice self-compassion, talk to yourself the same way you’d speak to a beloved friend, and make choices that support your overall well-being.
It’s about accepting yourself as you are, flaws and all.
When you prioritize self-love, it has a ripple effect, making you stronger, happier, and more confident, allowing you to show up as your best self for yourself and those you cherish.
Remember, self-care isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity!
Embracing these practices will help you live a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life as you navigate this wonderful chapter. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what truly nourishes you.
Focus on the things that make your heart and soul feel good. You deserve to prioritize your own well-being, and by doing so, you’ll discover a renewed energy and zest for life.
So, choose a few tips to start with, see how they make you feel, and gradually incorporate more into your routine.
Celebrate yourself and all that you are!