It’s finally the weekend! That means it’s time for many of us to have time off work, and relax. Last year, I wrote a post with easy self-care activities that require very little prep. Today, I’m sharing 10 self-care activities that take 1 minute or less.
If you have additional 60 second self-care ideas, leave them in the comments!
Message an Old Friend
Do you have unanswered texts from friends? Or a person that you haven’t talked to in a long time? Take a 60 second pause in your day and shoot them a quick text message. It’ll make you feel better, and it’ll make their day.
Watch 1 TikTok, IG Reel, or YouTube Short
Now, this one only works if you can demonstrate extreme self control. But, it is possible to watch only 1 singular tiktok. If you need a quick laugh, head straight to your favorite creator’s profile and watch their most recent video. After the video ends, close out the app, and carry on with your day. But, if watching just 1 isn’t realistic, set a timer on your phone for 5 or 10 minutes and spend that time watching as many as you can.
Drink Water
Staying hydrated is so important for me. If I get dehydrated, I’ll get a migraine. But drinking water can also help wake you up if you’re feeling the afternoon slump and help brain function. Staying hydrated also helps keep your skin clear, regulate body temperature, and so much more. Next time you need a quick boost (mentally or physically!), grab a glass of water.

Put on Lotion
This is something that I’m trying to be better about. I usually don’t have a problem putting lotion on my hands, but my legs… forget it. But it doesn’t take long to do. If you’re having a stressful morning, and are running around to leave the house on time, take 1 minute for a self-care activity. While you’re getting dressed, put lotion on your legs. Every time I do this when I’m rushing around, I instantly feel calmer.
Practice Deep Breathing
Deep breathing is a great 60 second self-care activity. When you get stressed, just take a deep breath, hold it for 5 counts, and then release slowly. Repeat that a few times, and you’ll discover the power of breathing exercises.
Sit and Do Nothing
How often do you include doing absolutely nothing in your self-care routine? This is an activity that can easily be done in 1 minute or less. Sit or lay on your bed or another comfy area, and just clear your mind. If your mind wanders let it, but then go back to a clear head (basically, do a 60 second meditation).
Want to learn more about the basics of meditation? My friend Riyah, from Riyah Speaks, has a great guide that can help you create your own meditation routine in 6 easy steps.
Stretch
Stretching doesn’t have to be a 20 minute activity to be effective self-care. If you’re feeling stiff during the day, get up from your chair and just touch your toes. Or, sit on the ground and do it. Even in just 60 seconds, you can do enough stretching that you’ll notice a difference physically once you are done.
Make Plans
Depending on how decisive your friends are, making plans may not be a 1 minute activity. But, 1 minute is enough time to get a group message out with some weekend ideas. Even if it’s just planning a zoom call so that you can catch up, having something to look forward to is a great way to practice self-care.

Pet Your Dog or Cat
Pets are amazing for so many things. They provide companionship, unconditional love, and lots of laughs. Take 60 seconds in the middle of your work day to go sit next to your pet on the floor, and show them some love.
Light a Candle
I love candles! I have way too many. But, each time I light one, I’m doing something just for me. Pick a scent that you like, and light it. You’ll make your home feel more cozy with the flame, and your home will smell great, too!
What are your favorite 1 minute self-care activities? Leave your suggestions in the comments!
Looking fore more self-care posts? Check out these posts!
Wonderful suggestions. Setting goals and evaluating where you are in your motivates you. Definitely make sure you stay hydrated for good health. Thank you for sharing. 😊
Pastor Natalie (ExamineThisMoment)
Letsakeamoment.com
Thank you for reading! I love it when I see you’ve left a comment! xx
These are great suggestions of self-care activities to do. I have like no self-control when it comes to TikTok, but setting a timer would be a good idea!
I also agree deep breathing is helpful & I often do it when I have a lot going out & I just need a moment relax.
The app itself does have a limit you can enable but all you have to do is enter the code (you set it up when enabling it) and it you can keep going. And it doesn’t come back up after a few minutes. They should definitely add a snooze button to that!