When we talk about self-care, we may often think that it’s purely an individual thing. That it’s something we do to take a step back from everyday life to only focus on ourselves, but healthy self-care can also be done through a group. Community self-care is a thing.

Remembering to take care of ourselves when we get caught up in our own thoughts can be really hard, which is why having a friend to remind you of your worth and encourage you to practice self-care is so important!

6 Tips to Promote Community Self-care in Your Friend Group

Here are some ways to promote self-care practices in your friend group so that you and your girlfriends can feel happy and healthy, together!

1. Keep good company

The first way to truly practice good self-care is by ensuring the people you surround yourself with support your happiness and growth. Having friends that are constantly spreading negativity and looking to capitalize on your failures is draining. Make sure your inner circle is made up of a solid supportive group and meaningful relationships.

2. Start a book exchange

A great way to relax and unwind, while also being self-reflective, is by reading a good book. There are so many books that are deemed “self-help” books but are actually so much more than that. Start a book exchange with your friend group and send each other a book you think they would enjoy and benefit from. This will not only save you money on buying a ton of books, but it will remind each of you that you have someone thinking of you while opening your eyes to new perspectives!

3. Find time for girl time

There will be times that we all need some solitude, and that’s totally okay! But we also need social interaction and to enjoy time with good friends. Finding time to get everyone’s schedules aligned can be hard, but there are ways to ensure you can have that much-needed girl time. Depending on you and your friends’ availability, make it a point to have a get-together once or twice a month where you can enjoy each other’s company; whether it be dinner and drinks or a night in with face masks and snacks. Some of my favorite community self-care activities include Free the Cheeks twerk class, Korean bathhouses, movie dates, or exploring the outdoors.

4. Respect each other’s time

Practicing self-care also involves making time to reach your personal goals and work on your passions. Being around people who want to support you and your goals will enable you to achieve your dreams. If you have a friend who would rather work on their painting this weekend than go out to the bar, don’t put them down or pressure them to partake. It feels good when we know someone is supporting us and our dreams.

5. Share things that you like

If you’ve found the perfect acne treatment or the newest fashion trend that you think your friend would love to try, let them know! It can even be ways that you practice self-care and share what helps you relieve stress while also avoiding any situations that might cause stress. When we share the things that work for us, it can help others find things that work for them too.

6. Relationship self-care

A big part of our lives are revolved around relationships; whether it’s our relationship with ourselves or our relationship with other people. When it comes to relationship self-care, it’s important to prioritize your close relationships, including yourself. Show up to events that are important to your friends and family! When you take care of your meaningful relationships, it’s actually taking care of you too.

Question: What ideas do you have for community self-care? Share your feedback below and let’s chat!