Did you know that reading is an essential part of self care? If you didn’t I want to share a few self care ideas specific to bookworms that can help you become a more mindful reader and create a more enjoyable reading experience.
Self Care Ideas for Bookworms
Self care is such a broad term and for most is primarily associated with bubble baths, face masks, and luxurious spa days complete with facials and massages. But, my friend they are so much more than that. Self care is defined by Google as the practice of taking action to preserve one’s health. Or, the practice of taking an active role in one’s health and well-being during times of stress.
I like to think of self care as a practice in which you perform rituals or actions designed to improve your physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. Hence why I believe reading is the ultimate act of self care. Yet, there are so many nifty ways we as readers can create a truly mindful experience to bolster the positive benefits that come with reading. Here are a few of my favorite self care ideas.
Create A Cozy Reading Nook
There’s something so romantic about having a designated reading space especially if you make it ultra cozy. What better way to immerse yourself in the pages of your favorite book? So, taking the time to create a cozy reading nook can elevate your reading experience to the next level.
Think plush pillows, comfy blankets, and a reading chair that allows you to curl into its depths. Other accessories you can add to your reading nook are a reading light which if you prefer dim lighting for your reading sessions will be the perfect companion. If you like tea, cocoa, or coffee while you read an electric mug would also add to the vibe.
For my Kindle lovers, adding the infamous Kindle stand and Kindle page turner allows you to curl up and read hands-free the ultimate reading dream. Also, don’t forget headphones for audiobook lovers or those who enjoy immersive reading.
Enjoy A Bookish Bath or Shower Ritual
What better way to unwind after work than to have a nice soak in the tub? Or, if that’s not your style a refreshing shower? You can add a bookish spin to this ritual by listening to a bookish podcast or audiobook. Set the atmosphere by dimming the lights and lighting candles.
Make this the opportunity to pull out the stops and create a lush spa experience. Exfoliate, don a face mask, or enjoy an anti-aging treatment such as gua sha, or microcurrent facial tightening. Don’t forget body care! Use a fragrant body scrub, shave, use body serums, lotions, and oils to layer fragrance and smell like a goddess. You can even take the opportunity to wash your hair and put on a hair masque to hydrate and nourish your locks.
If you’re aiming for a nice soak in the tub don’t forget to use bath bombs and foaming bubble baths to create luxurious bubbles and lather. To get silky smooth hydrated skin don’t forget to infuse your water with bath oil.
However, if showers are more your pace you can use shower bombs to create an aromatic experience during your shower. Plus in-shower lotions are another way of getting added hydration into your skincare routine for soft skin.
Organize Your Bookshelf
Is there anything more satisfying than organizing your books? It’s quite possibly the most fun thing I get to do to make sure I’m displaying my books in the best possible way. There are endless options for how to organize your home library. From rainbow shelves, to alphabetical, to genre-specific, to hardcover versus paperback and so many more.
Changing it up and organizing your books so often helps you stay current on what’s in your collection and if it’s maybe time to rehome items that you’re not attached to.
If you have a TBR cart organizing this is another beautiful way to make sure you’re reading books from your collection and reminding yourself of what books you have.
A great tool to utilize in your library organization efforts is the Libib library database where you can scan your books into their system and keep track of your library. That way you’ll have your collection available to you at your fingertips whenever you need it!
Engage with the Bookish Community
While reading is primarily an individual hobby it’s important to connect with others who share this interest. This way you can participate in lively discussions about your favorite books, participate in book swaps, reading challenges, read-a-thons and so much more!
You can do this by joining an in-person or virtual book club. Or, you can connect and engage with other bookish friends on social media.
Take Yourself on a Reading Date
There’s nothing more romantic than taking yourself on a reading date and enjoying quality time with your current read. This can take shape in various ways. From a picnic in the park to finding your favorite café curling up with your book, a pastry, and your favorite coffee.
Other options include going to a restaurant and enjoying a nice meal with your book or visiting an upscale wine bar. And what reading date wouldn’t be complete without a visit to your favorite bookshop? There’s no better way to nurture a reader’s soul than this.
Take Regular Breaks from Reading
This may sound counterintuitive especially if you have ambitious reading goals but it’s healthy to take some space from reading now and then. Not only does this prevent you from getting burnt out on reading or slipping into slumps it also ensures you’re a well-rounded person able to pursue a variety of other interests outside of reading.
So, maybe plan a day where you go on a hike, or spend quality time with friends and loved ones where you set your book aside and get grounded appreciating all the joys this world has to offer and be the main character in your own story.
Enjoy A Bookish TV or Film Adaptation
It’s such fun to read a book or series and then enjoy the accompanying adaptation of said work. Being able to see your favorite literary work come to life and immerse yourself in this story in a whole new way. What a spectacular experience.
Start A Book Journal
Book journals are such a fun way to engage with what you read in a whole new way. Not only are they effective at keeping track of all you’ve read but they also allow you to gather your thoughts, feelings, opinions, and experiences regarding the books and series you’ve read.
You can track monthly and yearly reading goals, create a wishlist of books you want to read, and keep track of new releases you’re excited about. There are guided book journals as well as bullet journal options for those who are more creative and enjoy creating a journal that reflects their style and has an artistic flair.
Make A Bookish Themed Playlist
Looking to create the similar vibes you experienced while reading your favorite book? Try your hand at creating a playlist of all the songs and music that would make the perfect soundtrack for your favorite book. Bonus points if you share it with others so you can invite others to expose themselves to this greatness that you’ve created.
Bonus points if you create a mood board or character art bringing your character’s story to life and making it seem more real and tangible.
As you can see there are a variety of self care ideas you can utilize in making reading an essential part of your overall self care routine. Thus making reading a pleasurable experience. What rituals will you be creating for your bookish self care goals? Let me know in the comments below!
