No More Excuses: Self-Care Ideas You Can Do in 10 Minutes

We all know self-care is important, but let’s be honest—when life is busy, it’s the first thing to fall off the to-do list. Work, family, responsibilities… they all come first, and by the time you finally get a moment for yourself, you’re too exhausted to do anything about it.

But here’s the truth: self-care doesn’t have to take hours. You don’t need a full spa day or a weekend retreat to reset your energy. Just ten minutes can be enough to lower stress, boost focus, and keep burnout at bay.

So, no more excuses! Here are easy, effective self-care ideas you can fit into your day—even on the busiest schedule.

Why Self-Care in Small Doses Works

Image by Dane Wetton on Unsplash

If you’re thinking, “Ten minutes isn’t enough to make a difference,” think again. Science tells us that small, consistent self-care practices have a huge impact on our well-being.

• Reduces stress: Just a few deep breaths or a short mindfulness practice can lower cortisol levels, helping your nervous system relax.

  
  

• Improves focus: Stepping away from work—even for a few minutes—resets your brain, improving concentration and problem-solving skills.

  
  

• Boosts mood: Small moments of joy (like a favourite song or a soothing scent) trigger dopamine, the brain’s feel-good chemical.

  
  

• Prevents burnout: Regular self-care helps regulate emotions and energy levels, keeping you from running on empty.

So if you’ve been waiting for a “perfect time” to start prioritising yourself, this is your sign to stop waiting. Let’s make it easy.

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10-Minute Self-Care Ideas for Busy Women

Ready to reclaim your energy? Try these quick self-care rituals that fit into even the most chaotic day.

1. Breathe & Reset (2-10 minutes)

One of the fastest ways to calm your nervous system is through deep breathing. Try box breathing (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4). Repeat a few times, and you’ll feel the tension release almost instantly.

Bonus: Pair this with our HUSH blend wax melts to create a relaxing atmosphere. The soothing essential oil blend helps shift you into a state of calm, even in the middle of a busy day.

2. Aromatherapy for Instant Relaxation (5-10 minutes)

Scent has a powerful effect on the brain. Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood can instantly help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Try this: Light a wax melt while you work, journal, or stretch. The warm, calming scent will create a sanctuary-like space, even if you’re just sitting at your desk.

3. Journal Your Thoughts (5-10 minutes)

Feeling overwhelmed? Writing it down can help. Take five minutes to brain-dump your thoughts, write down what’s stressing you out, or list three things you’re grateful for. This small habit clears mental clutter and helps shift your mindset.

4. Move Your Body (5-10 minutes)

You don’t need a full workout to feel the benefits of movement. Try a 5-minute stretch, a quick dance break, or a short walk outside. Movement increases blood flow and releases endorphins, giving you a natural energy boost.

5. Disconnect for a Mental Reset (5-10 minutes)

The constant stream of emails, messages, and notifications keeps your brain overstimulated. Take just ten minutes to put your phone on airplane mode, close your laptop, and sit in silence. You’ll be amazed at how refreshed you feel.

6. Hydrate & Nourish Yourself (5-10 minutes)

When we’re busy, we often forget to drink water or eat properly. Take a moment to drink a glass of water, make a herbal tea, or have a healthy snack. Your body and brain will thank you.

7. Listen to a Quick Meditation or Uplifting Podcast (5-10 minutes)

If your mind is racing, a guided meditation can help bring instant calm. Alternatively, listen to a short motivational podcast to shift your perspective and lift your energy.

Pro tip: Pair this with a relaxing scent, like our HUSH blend wax melts, to fully immerse yourself in the moment.

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Making Self-Care a Daily Habit

The secret to self-care isn’t finding time—it’s making time. Here’s how to make these small rituals a natural part of your day:

• Tie it to an existing habit. (Example: Light a wax melt while you start your morning routine.)

• Set a reminder. Treat self-care like an important meeting—it deserves a spot in your schedule.

• Keep it simple. The easier it is, the more likely you are to stick with it.

Need a Full Burnout Reset? We’ve Got You.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and stuck in a cycle of burnout, self-care alone might not be enough—you need a full reset. That’s exactly why we created the FREE Burnout Reset Programme.

This 7-day guided programme helps you:💡 Understand what’s draining your energy🛑 Set boundaries that protect your time🧘‍♀️ Create a self-care routine that actually works✨ Feel recharged and in control again.

Plus, we’ll walk you through easy, science-backed practices to help you recover without overhauling your entire life.

Join the Burnout Reset today! Click here.

And while you’re at it, grab our HUSH blend wax melts to turn your space into a self-care sanctuary. Because you deserve a life that feels good—not just one you survive.

xxK