Cosy Self-Care Tips I Love as a Small Business Owner
Running a small business can be so wonderfully rewarding, but it can also be quite exhausting! I’ve learned that slowing down, and embracing simple, cosy self-care rituals help to keep me inspired, grounded, creative, while keeping those all important energy levels and spoons topped up. My business, after all, was created on my love for all things slow and simple!
I’ve come to realise that the gentle moments in-between the busy ones matter just as much as the work itself. Those little pauses - a lovely cup of tea, a good book, a slow morning spent easing into the day - have become the small anchors that hold me steady.
They remind me that it’s okay to move at my own pace, to take some deep breaths, and to choose what matters most for my mind, body and well-being. I find so much comfort in intentionally slowing down, and giving myself permission to simply be, while making space for the little things that bring joy to my day. I love how these slow, nourishing pockets of care help my creativity in ways that rushing never could, and they help me to pour so much goodness back into my business.
Here’s a few of my favourite cosy self-care rituals…
Starting the morning more slowly
Honestly, one of the kindest changes I’ve made for myself is choosing to start my mornings more slowly. It’s something I began doing after being diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease, and it’s made such a difference in how I move through my days. I like to take my time with breakfast, usually while reading a few pages from my Kindle, and I always enjoy feeding the birds and watching them from the window with a warm drink in hand. I also ease into my work by checking my emails first and doing a little planning for the day, which helps me feel calm, steady, and ready to begin.
Keeping hydrated
It may sound simple, but there have been so many times when I haven’t kept myself properly hydrated and ended up feeling awful with a headache. Whether it’s a warm and comforting herbal tea, a fruity infusion, a glass of water, or even some orange juice, taking regular pauses to drink throughout the day really helps a lot. It’s also a gentle reminder to pause, slow down, and check in with myself.
…and I can never resist a delicious mug of hot chocolate!
Reading a few pages of a book
Although it’s not always possible for long reading sessions, even a few pages of a favourite book can make such a wonderful positive difference. I love giving myself permission to enjoy something just for me, even if it’s only for five minutes. I also gather so much inspiration from books.
I’m currently reading While the Earth Holds Its Breath by Helen Moat. I’d love to know what you’re currently reading too?
Taking a walk
Getting outside, even for a short ten-minute walk, helps to beautifully fuel my energy and creativity. I love feeling the fresh air on my skin and noticing the little details in nature around me. It always helps to slow my thoughts, and I return to my work with a much clearer head. It’s probably one of the simplest and most accessible forms of self-care, and yet one of the most powerful.
Listening to a podcast
Whether it’s something inspiring, comforting, or simply entertaining, I love how listening to a good podcast can feel like spending time with a friend. It brings a cosy sense of connection and is always wonderfully uplifting. It’s such a lovely way to slow down. One of my favourites is As the Season Turns by Ffern. Perfect for those pauses in between work.
Making my workspace feel more cosy
A little extra cosiness really does make a big difference. It brings a sense of calm, and I love adding my favourite little touches to make my space feel warm and relaxing. Whether it’s a candle, my comfy jumper, a magazine by my side, fairy lights, or some fresh seasonal flowers, these small things create such a comforting atmosphere - perfect for those gentle pauses in the day.
I shared all about how I created a cosy little nook for writing and working, here.
…All of these little things remind me that the simplest of moments throughout our day can be the most nourishing.
What’s one simple, comforting self-care ritual that helps you slow down during busy days?
If you love slowing down, finding beauty in the small things, and living gently with the seasons, I think you might feel right at home in my little corner of Substack. Over on my Journal on Soulful Reflections, a nurturing and nourishing extension of Clementine Rose, I share calm and reflective posts that invite us to pause, breathe, and reconnect with what really matters. Each week, I share one of four series - Seasonal Musings, Simple Joys & Inspirations, The Gentle Business Journal, and Slow Notes. I’d love for you to join me!